Rachel Morrogh is to take over as chief executive of Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) in November, the organisation’s board has announced.

She will take over from solicitor Noeline Blackwell, who has held the post at the voluntary organisation for the past seven years.

Morrogh (pictured) joins DRCC from the Irish Cancer Society, where she is currently director of advocacy and external affairs.

A DRCC statement said that she would bring “a wealth of experience and expertise” to lead DRCC in the next phase of its mission to prevent the harm and heal the trauma of sexual violence.

“Her proven leadership and vision will be instrumental in guiding the centre's strategic direction and working with our stakeholders, as we enter a new and important stage of DRCC’s development,” said chair Ann Marie Gill.

Growth strategy

A graduate of UCD, Morrogh holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and politics, a master’s degree in politics, and a diploma in leadership.

She has previously worked for a global pharmaceutical company, with international public-affairs agencies, at the Oireachtas and for the Board of Trade in Canada.

“As chief executive, my focus will be to accelerate progress to end sexual violence in Ireland while delivering an ambitious growth strategy for the DRCC, so that it can be there for everyone who needs its services, supports and advocacy," Morrogh said.