From 1994 to 2018 I worked as a visual communicator in graphic design, brand identity and website design and development. During that time I was a passionate volunteer and a board director of organisations in the community and voluntary sector.As a designer, I learned how to navigate difficult situations and how to resolve problems at an organisational or an inter-personal level. I learned how to inspire and motivate teams, to listen carefully to colleagues and clients, to understand what they mean (which is often not what they say) and to determine what they need (which is often not what they ask for.) In December 2018 I embarked on an unexpected change from my design career path to become the interim CEO of the Irish Deaf Society. I have realised that this change brought together different strands of my life experience, managing companies and complex services and my passion for organisations that have a social impact.In December 2021 I was appointed as permanent CEO and I am delighted to work in the Deaf community and apply all my energies and experience to achieve our goals of equal rights and access for all Deaf people.Visit www.irishdeafsociety.ie to find out more about Irish Sign Language and Deaf culture and community.