Colm McGivern appointed to NI director role
A Newry man has been appointed as the British Council’s new Director for Northern Ireland.
Colm McGivern will lead the British Council’s work across Northern Ireland, building stronger international links in education, culture and society.
He joins having worked in Ukraine, where he served as Director of the British Council Ukraine at the British Embassy in Kyiv.
There, he spearheaded the resumption of UK public diplomacy during wartime; led major education reform partnerships; strengthened cultural and academic ties; and managed a large multi-national team under extremely challenging conditions.
Mr McGivern’s previous roles include Director Poland and North East Europe; Director Southern Africa; and Regional Director UK.
Speaking about his appointment, he said: “Northern Ireland punches far above its weight internationally. Our people, our creativity and our institutions have a remarkable global story to tell.
"I’m excited to build on that by looking firmly to the future, creating new partnerships, widening international opportunities for young people and bringing global perspectives into classrooms and communities.
"My focus is on ensuring that the work we do has impact across society and showcases the very best of Northern Ireland on the world stage.”