Simon Gillespie is an educator and programme builder with a background in leadership development, civic engagement, and high-performance youth pathways. He holds a BSc in Physical Education and an MA in History from the University of Limerick, followed by a teaching degree from Wilson College, PA.

Simon has spent over a decade leading educational, athletic, and community programmes — including roles as Athletic Director, Academy Director for Rugby United New York, and development officer with both New York GAA and Ulster GAA. His experience spans curriculum design, organisational leadership, and coordinating diverse teams across Ireland and the United States.

He has also contributed to civic-engagement initiatives in Ireland and the U.S., informing his belief that democratic skills can be taught, practiced, and strengthened.

Simon founded the New Ireland Institute to bring that philosophy to life: a practical, modern, and inclusive approach to civic leadership on the island of Ireland.