Mental Health Reform has today announced the appointment of Philip Watt as Interim CEO of the coalition. The appointment follows an external recruitment process led by the Board of Directors.
Philip Watt joins Mental Health Reform, with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare and charity sectors. He was previously the CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland during a period of considerable progress in Cystic Fibrosis related policy, services and life expectancy. Philip is a former President of Cystic Fibrosis Europe; The Rare Disease Taskforce; Health Research Charities Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Council for the Homeless.
Philip Watt will commence his post on 23rd September. Ms Fiona Coyle, CEO of Mental Health Reform will be stepping away from the role in September to take maternity leave. Ms Coyle will return to Mental Health Reform in mid-2025.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, Chairperson of Mental Health Reform, Michele Kerrigan said:
“It is with great pleasure that we welcome Philip Watt to Mental Health Reform as the Interim CEO. Philip has a depth of experience in strategic leadership, advocacy and research. We believe Philip’s expertise will have a positive influence on the coalition during a critical period for the mental health sector.”
Commenting on his appointment, Philip Watt said:
“It is an honour to take on the role of Interim CEO. I am delighted to join Mental Health Reform and be part of a dedicated team of staff, member organisations and volunteers working together to drive progressive reform of human-rights based mental health services and supports in Ireland.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people seeking mental health care has drastically increased. People continue to face challenges in accessing timely, high-quality mental health supports. I look forward to working with the coalition to advocate for increased investment and reform in the mental health system to improve mental health outcomes for people in Ireland.”
