Gillian has over 35 years’ experience working with both Government agencies and private agri-food business in food and agriculture regulatory affairs, research, and advocacy. She has been the CEO of the Irish Organic Association for the past 13 years and is actively involved with IFOAM EU in matters concerning organic food production at EU level.

Gillian sits on the National Organic Strategy Committee and is an active participant in the development of agricultural policy in Ireland, including the Rural Development Committee and the CAP consultative committee.

Gillian has also been involved in various research projects over her working career, including the first Irish European Innovation Partnership, while also overseeing the executive management of the Irish Organic Association which provides organic certification across Ireland. Gillian is currently working on an EU wide Climate Net Horizon project which will focus on aspects of carbon farming assessments.