Philip O’Callaghan
As Global Director for Government Strategy and Policy Advice Philip advances political strategy and policy development for governments around the world, bringing expertise in leadership, politics, public affairs, change management, and stakeholder engagement.
Philip works with Governments, Presidents & Prime Ministers globally to establish their government strategies, with targeted policy actions. Along with his team the role allows him support client countries and Governments with improvements to Private Office functions, strategic communications and the machinery of government.
From 2014-2024, for 10 years Philip worked at the heart of Irish politics. Navigating some of the most consequential political moments in the recent past, namely Brexit, COVID19, the war in Ukraine and the middle east.
From 2014-2017 Philip worked for Leo Varadkar when he was a Minister as his Policy & Parliamentary Adviser in the Departments of Health & Social Protection.
In 2017, Philip was appointed as the Taoiseach’s Special Adviser working on policy and Programme for Government implementation. Philip had policy responsibility for Education, Special Education, Further & Higher Education, Research, Innovation & Science and Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Philip was also responsible for the Taoiseach's diary planning and co-ordination.
In November 2021 Philip was promoted and appointed as Deputy Chief Staff to Leo Varadkar as he served as Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister). In December 2022 Philip was appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Taoiseach up until April 2024.
Most recently Philip was Nina Carberry’s (MEP) European Election Campaign Manager from April-June 2024 and Helen McEntee’s General Election Campaign Manager.
Philip has very fond memories of his time in Maynooth University, a University that offers so much but yet maintains its unique characteristics.
Updated 31/03/2025