Valerie Brien

_Community, South Dublin County Council_

Professional Overview

Valerie Brien is an experienced community professional with a demonstrated history of driving positive change and engagement within the local government sector. As a Community Lead at South Dublin County Council, she leverages her expertise in community development, stakeholder management, and program implementation to foster meaningful connections and improve quality of life for the region's residents.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Valerie has served as a Community Lead at South Dublin County Council since 1993, where she is responsible for developing and executing strategic community engagement initiatives. In this role, she works closely with local stakeholders, including residents, community organizations, and government agencies, to identify and address pressing community needs. Valerie's achievements include spearheading the establishment of several successful neighborhood improvement projects, securing over €500,000 in funding to support community-driven initiatives, and leading the implementation of a comprehensive community survey that provided valuable insights to guide the council's decision-making processes.

Career Progression

Prior to her current position, Valerie held the role of Operations Manager at Tallaght Community Arts Ltd from 1995 to 1997, where she managed a team of community outreach specialists and oversaw the delivery of various arts-based programs. Her ability to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders and implement innovative solutions has been instrumental in her career progression, enabling her to make a meaningful impact within the local government and community development sectors.

Academic Background

Valerie holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Science from University College Dublin, where she specialized in community development and social policy. Her academic background has provided a strong foundation for her work in the field of community engagement and her commitment to enhancing the well-being of local communities.

Areas of Expertise

• Community development and engagement

• Stakeholder management and collaboration

• Program planning, implementation, and evaluation

• Grant writing and funding acquisition

• Strategic planning and project management

• Effective communication and public presentation

Professional Impact

Throughout her tenure at South Dublin County Council, Valerie has consistently demonstrated her ability to drive positive change and make a tangible impact on the communities she serves. Her leadership in spearheading community-based initiatives, securing funding to support local projects, and fostering meaningful partnerships with diverse stakeholders has earned her a reputation as a respected and influential figure within the local government sector.

Conclusion

Valerie Brien's extensive experience, specialized expertise, and proven track record of success make her a valuable asset to South Dublin County Council and the broader community. With a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of residents, she continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region and contributing to the overall well-being of the local community.