Cunningham unveiled as chair of philanthropy group CFI

Business leader John Cunningham has been appointed as chair of Community Foundation Ireland (CFI), succeeding Roddy Rowan

Community Foundation Ireland CEO, Denise Charlton, with John Cunningham, newly appointed chair.

Community Foundation Ireland (CFI) has appointed business leader John Cunningham as its new chair, succeeding Roddy Rowan, whose term as chair has come to an end.

John Cunningham is currently market insights director for BAM. He brings 40 years of executive experience in roles with Irish Permanent, Friends First, Zurich Bank, Alexander Mann Solutions, Morgan McKinley and the Lysis Group.

The foundation promotes strategic philanthropy to advance equality, strengthening communities and protecting nature and the environment. Formed in 2000, the foundation has raised more than €200m to advance that mission.

John Cunningham has a long association with the arts in Ireland and founded the IMMA 1000 fundraising initiative. John is a member of the Council of Dublin Chamber. He was formerly chair of the Immigrant Council of Ireland and of Gaisce, The President’s Award.

Denise Charlton, CEO of Community Foundation Ireland, said: “John brings a perspective that resonates with visionary donors seeking to create meaningful change, while also offering valuable insight to identifying both needs and challenges and the strategic actions needed to secure a better future for people, place and planet.

“Building on the focus developed under Roddy Rowan, I look forward to John advising the foundation team to ensure our philanthropy remains both strategic and impactful.”