Low-key expert with direct, refreshing manner

Name: John Barrett Role: Head of Garda HR Started: September 2014

‘I THINK there is a very clear role for public servants to stand up and call the truth as they find it. That’s all I did, I’m asking for no bouquets.’

So said John Barrett this week at the PAC, after flatly contradicting Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan’s version of a meeting between them in July 2015.

Mr Barrett is a man not used to the spotlight, in a role that is very low profile. He received a masters degree in organisational behaviour from the University of London in 2000.

Before that, he was educated in his home city of Cork where he received an honours degree in accounting and management.

He has over 30 years experience in human resources matters and has been recommended on professional social media network Linkedin for his work in the Garda. Eugene Banks, a principal officer in the Department of Justice, said: ‘John brings a multi-dimensional approach to his role as Executive Director of Human Resources and People Development in the Garda Síochána.

‘He combines strategic perspective with practical skills to deliver on key objectives and targets. He quickly developed a strong professional relationship with senior officials in the Department of Justice and Equality and indeed in the wider civil service (including the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform).

‘This was only possible because of his rapid understanding of the complex organisational and operating environment which is the nature of the policing and security service.’

He continued: ‘John utilises his direct and refreshing manner to provide innovation and focus in delivering on his commitments.’

Mr Barrett has worked with a number of different organisations and companies before joining the Garda in 2014, including FUE, now IBEC, Applied Materials Corporation in California, Applied Materials in Europe and Millipore Corp.