Reference Group
While Pivotal is independent, we are not isolated. We work hard to establish and maintain strong relationships with civic society, politicians, and policy–makers. We also seek to develop partnerships with other organisations, including universities and think tanks elsewhere in the UK, Ireland and beyond.
Our reference group helps us by maintaining a broad network of contacts and inputs from across our society. Its remit is to provide advice and ideas in relation to the organisation’s current and future research and communication strategies, helping us to ensure that we are achieving our aims.
Sinéad McSweeney
Former Global Head of Public Policy, Twitter
Rosalind Skillen
Climate Activist and Columnist
Andrew McCormick
Retired Northern Ireland Civil Service Permanent Secretary
Jarlath Kearney
Strategy Advisor and Media Contributor
Judith Gillespie
Former Deputy Chief Constable, PSNI
Sarah Creighton
Housing Advisor and Lawyer
Simon Hamilton
Chief Executive at Belfast Chamber of Trade and Commerce
Lisa Faulkner Byrne
Project Co–ordinator, EPIC
Deputy Chair, Intercomm Ireland
Jessica Caldwell
Outreach Coordinator at Kainos
World Economic Forum Global Shaper
Eamonn Donaghy
Accountant & tax consultant
former spokesperson, Grow Northern Ireland
Marianne Elliott
Former Director, Institute of Irish Studies, University of Liverpool
Richard English
Pro–Vice–Chancellor, Queen’s University Belfast
George Fergusson
Former UK diplomat
David Gavaghan
Interim Chair.
Advisor, Consultant and Director.
Richard Good
Public policy consultant
Former Special Adviser to the Minister of Justice for Northern Ireland
Leo Green
PhD researcher, Transitional Justice Institute, Ulster University
Eva Grosman
Director, Centre for Reconciliation and Peace Building
Will Haire
Former Permanent Secretary, Department for Social Development
Robert Hazell
Founder and former Director, Constitution Unit, University College London
John Hunter
Former Permanent Secretary, Department of Finance
Pro–Chancellor, Ulster University
Seamus McAleavey
Former Chief Executive, NICVA
John McCallister
Former MLA, South Down
Former Deputy Leader, Ulster Unionist Party
Fergal McFerran
Northern Ireland Client Account Manager, Stonewall UK
President, Queen’s University Graduates Association
Angela McGowan
Director, Confederation of British Industry Northern Ireland
Ann McGregor
Chief Executive, NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Brigid McManus
Former Secretary–General, Department of Education and Skills
David Phinnemore
Dean of Education, Queen’s University, Belfast
Professor of European Politics, Queen’s University Belfast
Trevor Ringland
Partner, Macaulay & Ritchie Solicitors
Former British & Irish Lion; former Irish rugby international
Alan Whysall
Honorary Senior Research Associate, Constitution Unit, University College London