St John of God Transition: New CEO Appointed as Brothers Step Back

The St John of God religious order has announced its decision to withdraw from direct involvement in its healthcare and hospital organization, marking a significant transition in leadership. This change coincides with the appointment of Jerry Dempsey as the new Group Chief Executive of the St John of God Hospitaller Services Group (SJOG HSG). His responsibilities will encompass the St John of God hospital in Dublin and various community disability services throughout Ireland.

Dempsey, who brings over 25 years of executive management experience across healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, and environmental sectors in Ireland, the UK, and the USA, is expected to guide the organization through this pivotal transition. According to a spokesperson, Dempsey has demonstrated “extensive experience leading mission-driven organizations in regulated multi-stakeholder environments where trust, compliance, and service quality are paramount.”

His previous roles include Managing Director of Greenstar, Chief Executive Officer of Ashfield Healthcare USA, and Chief Commercial Officer at Complete Laboratory Solutions. Dempsey’s track record includes overseeing organizations during periods of significant growth while balancing financial sustainability with a strong focus on person-centered care.

Changes in Governance Structure

The leadership change aligns with ongoing governance reforms within SJOG HSG, which began its strategic evolution in 2006. This initiative was prompted by the need to prepare for a future where the Brothers of the order would gradually reduce their roles due to advancing age and declining vocations. The organization has since planned a systematic decrease in the Brothers’ involvement in both operations and governance.

The next phase of this transition will conclude by the end of 2025, when the remaining Irish and UK Brothers will step down from the SJOG HSG and SJOG Malawi Boards. This marks a pivotal moment in the organization’s history, as leadership and governance will be fully entrusted to dedicated laypeople.

Dempsey expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am honoured to take up the role of Group CEO at this transformative time for the St John of God Group. The Order has laid a remarkable foundation for the task ahead with over 150 years of dedicated service and leadership.” He emphasized the commitment to fulfilling the mission of Saint John of God by fostering a cohesive and sustainable future that meets the needs of the community.

Dr. Tony Hanna, Chair of the Board, welcomed Dempsey’s appointment, noting, “We are delighted to confirm Jerry Dempsey’s appointment as Group CEO. He brings a wealth of professional experience and corporate expertise to this role as we enter a new era in the Group’s development.” Dr. Hanna acknowledged the invaluable contribution the Order has made in supporting vulnerable populations over the past century and a half.

Addressing Recent Challenges

The announcement of Dempsey’s appointment follows a period of scrutiny for the organization. In June, Aidan Clohessy, a former principal at St Augustine’s School in Blackrock, was convicted of the indecent assault of six boys over a thirty-year span and sentenced to four years in prison. Clohessy was affiliated with the St John of God religious order since 1958, and his conviction has raised concerns over the organization’s oversight and accountability.

Despite these challenges, Dempsey’s leadership is viewed as a critical step toward reinforcing the mission and values of the St John of God organization. The focus will remain on ensuring the dignity and well-being of those served, helping them to achieve their full potential while delivering impactful and compassionate care. As the organization transitions into this new era, the commitment to its foundational principles of compassion, hospitality, and respect remains steadfast.