Susan Townsend

Team Research Operations
Professional profile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Susan is the Procurement Manager, responsible for delivering best practice procurement solutions that advance the ERC’s operational priorities. She ensures procurement activities align with organisational goals, meet the highest compliance standards, and provide strategic value across the organisation.

She joined the ERC in January 2026, bringing experience from the Education, Tourism, Forestry and Land Solutions sectors, where she developed strong expertise in public procurement and public‑sector operations.

Susan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management from the National College of Ireland and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Procurement Law from The Honourable Society of King’s Inns.

 

Clodagh McArdle

Cian Ó Raghallaigh

Role/Grade Clerical Officer
Team Operations
Professional profile Cian has worked as a billingual administrator in the ERC since 2021. As first point of contact in the organisation, he is responsible for managing the ERC’s inboxes, dealing with enquiries from the public, translating and proof-reading documents and assisting with building redevelopment.

Paddy O’Reilly

Paddy joined the ERC in 2022, having worked as a Clerical Officer in An Garda Síochána HQ. Prior to that, he worked as an ESL teacher for over ten years, teaching exam preparation classes. He is responsible for general administration in the organisation. He shares his time between the Test Department and the Centre.

Leo Devlin

Leo has been with the ERC since 2013, working in the Test Department to provide teachers and school administrators with advice regarding their testing needs, and managing the provision of test materials where needed. With responsibility for supplying tests and maintaining relationships with schools, he strives to provide excellent customer service at all times.

Lynn Jackson

Lynn joined the ERC in June 2019. Before Joining the ERC, her work experience includes working with City of Dublin Education Training Board, Student Universal Support Ireland and the Education Shared Business Service on their new Finance project. Now working as part of the ERC’s Administration Team, Lynn  is the Project and Procurement Officer and has responsibility for a number of different areas within projects. She holds a BA (Hons) in Public Management from the IPA.

Claire Kenny

Role/Grade Test Department Manager  – Higher Executive Officer
Team Test Department
Professional profile

 

 

 

Claire joined the ERC as a Higher Executive Officer in 2022 and now leads the Test Department. She oversees day-to-day operations, supports service delivery, and ensures paper and online testing services are delivered efficiently to schools and stakeholders.

Her focus is on improving processes, strengthening performance, and maintaining a high standard of customer service. She works closely with colleagues to streamline operations and make sure services are consistent and responsive.

Before joining the ERC, Claire worked in DCEDIY in Learning and Development, supporting training and organisational capability. She also has experience in publishing and retail, where she developed skills in sales, team management, and customer service.

Claire holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management and is committed to continuous improvement in public service.