Bernard Joyce
An experienced sustainability and rural community development professional with a strong background in biodiversity, rural resilience and environmental education
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About
An experienced sustainability and rural community development professional with a strong background in biodiversity, rural resilience and environmental education. A skilled communicator, excelling in roles as postgraduate tutor, conference speaker with extensive experience in community engagement, stakeholder dialogue, and cross-sector collaboration.
Experience
Director at New Paradigms (2006 – Present)
Supporting small businesses, community organisations, and NGOs. Key projects include:
- Co-design of the 2023–2027 Strategic Plan for Macra na Feirme, a 10,000-member national youth organisation.
- Project management of "Impact Days" for Deloitte and Now Group, delivered in partnership with Pilotlight UK, strengthening cross-sector collaboration and social impact.
- Built and managed e-commerce and membership platforms for the Irish Learning Support Association (ILSA) and Féile Chois Cuain Traditional Music Weekend, Louisburgh.
Tutor at Dublin City University (DCU) (2020 – 2021)
Post-graduate Tutor on the Management for Sustainable Development course. Delivered lectures and facilitated learning on core modules, including Sustainable Energy, Water, and Waste Management.
Director at Nature School (2011 – Present)
Delivering nature awareness workshops from my 7Ha Native Woodlands and Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
- Clients included: Active Age Groups, Scouting Organisations, ATU Mayo (Conference), Irish Water, Mayo Education Centre, and Primary Schools through the Heritage in Schools Programme.
Teacher at St Bríds Special NS, Castlebar (2009 – 2012)
Part-time teacher, delivering music therapy programme.
Architectural CAD Technician at Freelance (1999 – 2006)
Technician using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) for building design, engineering services, and digital mapping; collaborated with communities and landowners to plan and develop rural water supply schemes.
- Clients included, Blue Hills Consulting, Leitrim, Grady & Associates, Westport and Veale & Associates, Castlebar.
CDO at Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) (1996 – 1999)
Oversaw the development and management of IWA services across Mayo and Galway. Directed and trained a team of 40 staff delivering in-home and centre-based services. Designed and led advocacy and capacity-building programmes for people with disabilities, and established resource centres in Mayo and Galway.
Education
MSc in Ag Innovation – University of Galway (2021)
MSc in Management for Sustainable Development – Dublin City University (2019)
BSc in Digital Design, Technology & Innovation – TU Dublin (2016)
BSc in Rural Development – NUI Galway (2008)
