Karen Phillips has 25 years of experience working in the arts and cultural sector in Ireland, UK and internationally, fulfilling a wide range of development, fundraising, marketing and event management roles. Karen holds a Masters in Fine Art from Goldsmiths College, University of London and a BA (Hons) First Class in Design from Glasgow School of Art. Karen lives in Ireland and her creative work as a director, curator and artist reflects the need in these times for people to come together. Her artistic practice is an evolving, collaborative approach which puts ideas around belonging or forming a community in the forefront.Karen currently holds the position of Head of Arts at the Royal Dublin Society. Karen was the CEO of North Lands Creative (2016-2022). As CEO, she was responsible for the strategic direction of the International Centre of Excellence for Glass, the quality, status and relevance of its artistic programme, its reputation and relationships with audiences and stakeholders.Karen was the inaugural Executive Director of RUA RED, South Dublin Arts Centre (2008-2016) Ireland’s largest multidisciplinary arts centre, a significant capital project designed by South Dublin County Council. She managed the establishment of the exhibition and live programme, creative learning activities and incubation studios for creative businesses.Roles outside the cultural sector include Development Manager, Louth County Enterprise Board, a regeneration programme commissioning action research projects and training to inform a regional strategy for creative industries in the East Border Region of Ireland with the SEUPB Peace and Interreg Programmes.Karen has an outstanding track record in fundraising, creating and implementing strategies with an excellent knowledge and already established relationships, networks and contacts with funders nationally (UK-wide) and internationally.