Our Team

Phil Thompson

Phil Thompson has dedicated his career to supporting individuals affected by homelessness and addiction. He began his journey in the sector working at the Cedar House facility in Dublin city centre, where he developed a deep commitment to helping those struggling with addiction. In 2008, driven by that passion, Phil co-founded Tiglin’s first facility in Ashford, Co. Wicklow, and took on the role of Manager. Today, he serves as CEO of Tiglin, leading the organisation with a focus on compassion, community, and long-term transformation. Phil holds a Diploma in Addiction Counselling Intervention Skills, a Degree in Applied Addiction Studies & Community Development, and a Higher Diploma in Applied Social Care.

Gary O’Heaire

Gary O’Heaire brings extensive experience from the social care and non-profit sectors, where he has played a key role in developing and managing high-quality services. With a strong background in organisational governance, policy development, and the implementation of national standards, Gary is deeply committed to continuous improvement and service excellence. His passion lies in driving quality and efficiency across Tiglin’s operations to ensure the best possible outcomes for those in our care. Gary holds a Higher Diploma in Social Care and a Degree in Addiction Studies, and a a Higher Diploma in Clinical Leadership.

Kevin Burke

With over 15 years of experience in the addiction recovery field, Kevin Burke brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and hands-on expertise to his role as Aftercare Programme Manager at Tiglin. Since 2008, he has served in a variety of roles, including Team Leader at the Tiglin Men’s Centre in Ashford, where he played a central part in supporting individuals through rehabilitation and reintegration into society.Kevin is particularly skilled in one-to-one support, helping individuals identify and achieve personal goals that promote lasting recovery. In his current role, he works closely with a multidisciplinary team and external agencies to provide holistic aftercare, focusing on education, training, upskilling, and personal development. His work empowers individuals to become more employable, independent, and well-rounded as they move forward in life. Kevin holds a Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy and a Higher Diploma in Arts in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care).

Ger Ganley

Ger Ganley is a dedicated and experienced social care professional with a strong background in addiction support, programme development, and change management. With many years of hands-on experience, he brings a deep understanding of evidence-based practices and the complex needs of those in recovery. Known for his pragmatic approach and empathetic leadership, Ger is a natural encourager who leads with both heart and vision. He is passionate about creating environments where individuals can experience real and lasting change. Ger holds a Higher Diploma in Business and a Higher Diploma in Applied Social Care.

Lara McElroy

Lara McElroy is a committed and compassionate social care professional with a strong background in supporting women through addiction recovery and life transformation. As Centre Manager of Tiglin’s Men’s Centre, Lara leads with empathy, structure, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges women face on the road to healing. Her approach is grounded in creating a safe, empowering environment where women can rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose. Lara is passionate about trauma-informed care, community building, and walking alongside each resident on their journey toward independence and restoration. She holds qualifications in Social Care and Addiction Studies, and brings both professional expertise and heartfelt dedication to her role.

Nigel Nash

Nigel Nash serves as the Centre Manager at Tiglin women’s Centre, bringing steady leadership, deep compassion, and a hands-on approach to his role. With a strong background in social care and a commitment to supporting individuals in recovery, Nigel creates a structured yet nurturing environment where men can rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.Nigel is known for his calm presence, practical mindset, and genuine dedication to helping others. He plays a key role in day-to-day operations, team leadership, and the delivery of a recovery-focused programme that supports long-term transformation. His leadership is grounded in empathy, accountability, and a belief in the potential of every individual to experience meaningful change.

Alex Newcomb

With over 25 years of experience in both residential and community-based addiction recovery services, Alex Newcomb brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and leadership to his role at Jigginstown Manor. He has received cutting-edge training from leading researchers and practitioners in the field, shaping his holistic and person-centred approach to recovery. Alex is driven by a deep desire to see lives transformed, to see men healed, restored, and actively engaged in family and community life. He holds a Higher Certificate in Addiction Studies, a BA (Hons) in Addiction Counselling, and a First Class Honours MA in Chaplaincy & Pastoral Work

Gavin Murphy

With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Gavin Murphy brings expert knowledge and a passion for people to his role as Manager of Rise at the Cove. Specialising in launching new businesses, Gavin played a key role in setting up the café and chose to stay on in a permanent capacity to mentor and train participants nearing the end of their journey through Tiglin’s programme.At Rise, Gavin’s mission is twofold: to provide professional barista training and practical life skills that enhance employability, and to foster a sense of community and belonging. Under his leadership, Rise at the Cove has become more than just a café — it’s a community hub in Greystones where staff and locals build meaningful connections.Gavin believes in training each team member to the highest possible standard, ensuring they leave not only with skills for the workplace, but also with confidence and purpose. “Service,” he says, “isn’t just about making coffee — it’s about creating an entire experience.” His dedication has made Rise at the Cove a thriving example of social enterprise in action.

Adrienne Hatchell

Since joining Tiglin in 2015, Adrienne Hatchell has been a key figure in the development and delivery of Tiglin’s Community Employment (CE) programmes. As Community Employment Manager, she oversees multiple CE departments, ensuring smooth programme operations, high-quality participant support, and strong outcomes. Adrienne is deeply committed to empowering individuals through work experience, upskilling, and personal development, helping them take confident steps toward long-term employment. Her leadership is grounded in both compassion and professionalism, and her efforts continue to enhance Tiglin’s impact in communities across the region. Adrienne holds a Third Level Diploma in Accounting Technician, a Diploma in Marketing, and a Diploma in Bookkeeping & Payroll.

Bronagh McBrien

With over 15 years of experience in the homelessness and addiction sectors, Bronagh brings deep expertise and compassion to her role as a Homeless Link Worker at Tiglin. She has worked across multiple thresholds of homelessness and substance misuse, collaborating closely with voluntary organisations, private services, and the HSE. Her wide-ranging experience has given her a strong understanding of the complex and varied needs of both adults and children facing homelessness.In her current role, Bronagh focuses on tenancy sustainment and homelessness prevention, working directly with individuals and families at risk to help them remain housed and supported. Her insight into the layered realities of homelessness, paired with a calm and empathetic approach, makes her a trusted advocate for those she serves. Bronagh holds qualifications in Homeless Prevention and Intervention (DRHE), a Level 8 in Addiction Studies, and a Community Drug and Alcohol Diploma.

Erich Fisher

Born in 1965 in Kazakhstan (then part of the Soviet Union), Erich Fisher’s early life was shaped by cultural diversity—though of German descent, he grew up speaking Russian for the first 11 years of his life. After emigrating to Germany in 1976, Erich worked as a Russian-German translator before stepping into youth work in Hanau, Germany. His path soon led him to theological study and, in 1997, he was ordained as a pastor, serving as Senior Pastor in Hanau for 12 years.In 2008, Erich moved to Greystones to continue his pastoral work with the Church of the Nazarene. In 2023, he joined Tiglin as Chaplain, where he now offers spiritual and emotional support to both staff and residents across Tiglin’s centres, including the Lighthouse. Erich brings a wealth of pastoral experience, cross-cultural understanding, and a gentle, compassionate presence to his role. He is also trained in ASSIST suicide prevention and is currently completing a Level 8 certificate course in “Meeting the Challenge of Challenging Behaviour” through SETU.Erich holds qualifications in Applied Linguistics and a Master of Divinity, blending communication expertise with deep spiritual insight to walk alongside individuals in their healing and recovery journeys.

Sarah McMahon

Sarah brings over two decades of experience in executive support, operations, and strategic communications across both the corporate and community sectors. With a strong background in project management, digital marketing, and client engagement, she is passionate about using her skills to support work that makes a real difference in people’s lives.Before joining Tiglin, Sarah led marketing and communications for large-scale international projects and held leadership roles in logistics, administration, and executive operations. Her experience includes managing complex schedules, coordinating multi-team projects, and supporting senior leadership with clarity and precision.She holds a Diploma in Arts and Media Design, a Diploma in Digital Marketing and Social Media, and a Diploma in Legal Studies, alongside certificates in counselling and social media strategy. Sarah is currently pursuing a BSc in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy, deepening her understanding of how to support individuals and communities in a thoughtful and person-centred way.Sarah is committed to using her skills to serve others and contribute to life-changing work. She loves being part of a team that values compassion, transformation, and hope.

Stephen Flood

Stephen joined Tiglin in January 2020 and has played a key role in several areas of the organisation since then. He began his journey managing the Community Employment (CE) scheme based at the Lighthouse on Pearse Street, Dublin 2, where he worked closely with individuals facing various challenges. Following this, Stephen transitioned into the role of Assessment Coordinator for Tiglin’s Men's Centre, a position he held for three years, providing crucial support and guidance to those entering the programme.With extensive experience working with vulnerable people, Stephen brings both compassion and professionalism to his role. He holds a Level 7 qualification in Addiction Studies and Networking & System Security, as well as a Level 6 in Digital Marketing, alongside numerous other relevant certifications.In his current role as Project Worker, Stephen facilitates health-led approach groups in Dublin’s south inner city. His commitment to interagency collaboration is central to strengthening connections between local services and Tiglin, enhancing support pathways for individuals in need.