Eimear Cusack Steps Down as RTÉ HR Director
- RTÉ, Ireland's national public service broadcaster, will be seeking a new leader for its human resources department.
- According to a message from Director-General Kevin Bakhurst to RTÉ staff on August 27, 2025, Cusack's decision allows for a carefully managed handover.
- why this matters: A well-executed leadership transition in HR is critical for maintaining employee morale and operational stability, notably for a large organization like RTÉ undergoing significant conversion.
A Key Figure Steps Down: RTÉ’s Human Resources Director to depart
Table of Contents
RTÉ, Ireland’s national public service broadcaster, will be seeking a new leader for its human resources department. Director of Human Resources, Eimear Cusack, has announced her decision to step down from the role next year, with a planned departure in spring 2026.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition
According to a message from Director-General Kevin Bakhurst to RTÉ staff on August 27, 2025, Cusack’s decision allows for a carefully managed handover. She will remain in her position until spring 2026 to facilitate the recruitment of her successor and ensure a period of overlap for effective knowledge transfer. This proactive approach aims to minimize disruption during a period of ongoing change within the association.
Not Part of Restructuring Efforts
Bakhurst clarified that Cusack’s departure is not connected to the recently implemented Voluntary Exit Program. Notably,members of the Leadership Team,including Cusack,were ineligible to participate in the programme. This distinction underscores that her decision is a personal one, separate from broader restructuring initiatives at RTÉ.
A Legacy of Transformation
Since joining RTÉ in 2017, Cusack has been instrumental in the organization’s ongoing transformation, according to Bakhurst’s statement. He expressed his gratitude for her “invaluable support” during her tenure.Her work has coincided with a period of significant challenges and changes for the broadcaster, navigating issues of funding, public trust, and evolving media landscapes.
“Eimear has played an important role in the ongoing transformation of RTÉ.”
The Importance of HR Leadership at RTÉ
The Chief People Officer position at RTÉ is a critical one. The organization employs a significant workforce and faces unique challenges related to public service broadcasting, journalistic integrity, and maintaining a diverse and inclusive habitat. As Bakhurst noted in a note to staff
, a smooth transition is paramount. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of Irish employment law, and a commitment to fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Further Information
| Key date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 27, 2025 | eimear Cusack announces her departure. |
| Spring 2026 | Planned departure of Eimear Cusack. |
| Coming Weeks | RTÉ to advertise for Chief People Officer role. |