Meet the Board

Mike Dawson – Chairperson

As the People and Corporate Services Director for Belfast Harbour Commission since August 2021, I bring over 20 years of experience in leading people and business transformation strategies with executive teams and boards across multiple sectors. I am also currently a board member for Praxis Care and have previously worked in the third sector. I am thrilled to have been offered a position on the MACS Board, and I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise in any way that I can.

Why MACS?

Recently, I was introduced to the impactful work that MACS does, and I was immediately drawn to their mission.

Andrea McCooke

I’m an accredited CEDR Mediator and hold a BA in Business Studies and a Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management. I currently work for Simon Community NI as the Director of Human Resources and Organisational Development. Previously, I worked as a Director in Local Government, with more than 20 years’ experience working in senior roles with responsibility for Human Resources & Organisational Development across a number of local Councils in Northern Ireland.

Why MACS?

I joined MACS because I want to be part of an organisation that supports young people who haven’t had a fair deal and deserve a chance. Something that MACS do so well.

(Graham) Stephen Green

I am an ACCA qualified accountant and the Financial Controller of Simply Nuc Limited, a US owned technology company based in Bangor. I was the Finance Manager at Fold/Radius Housing Association for twelve years where I was a member of the Finance Committee and Audit & Risk Committee. 

I am also the treasurer for Kids in Control, a local professional theatre charity engaging with young people, and treasurer for North Down Cycling Club.

Why MACS?

I previously worked with MACS during my time at Fold Housing Association with the construction of their accommodation for young people in Lisburn. I also have two friends who work as Support Managers and loved hearing the progress the Lisburn scheme was making and was invited to attend a BBQ at Lisburn just after the opening. I was also talked into attending the Sleepout event. When MACS advertised the recruitment of Board members then I jumped at the chance.


Laura-Lee Quigley

I have a professional background in Health and Social Care working in Performance Management, Fostering and Health and Wellbeing. Most recently I have been working within a Recruitment and Business Development capacity providing employment opportunities and HR advice for Health and Social Care Teams in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland including organisations like MACS.

Why MACS?

I first came across MACS during my time sourcing placements for children and young people requiring foster placements and support leaving care. I was impressed with the feedback from the young people who had visited and worked with MACS. I am excited to be part of an organisation that listens to the voices of young people and designs services that make a positive and long-term impact in their lives.

Sandra McKillop

I have experience working in the public sector with 12 years in tertiary education and 4 years in health services in a number of senior management posts. Since 2008 I have been Company Director of a SME with responsibility for business development, quality management, marketing, human resource management and tender writing. I am currently a volunteer with MACS. I am also a Run Director at Queen’s Belfast parkrun. Previously I volunteered on the Committee, and then as Chair of Brainwaves NI. I was privileged to work with likeminded people to provide information and support to those diagnosed and living with a brain tumour; and raise vital funds for research.

Why MACS?

For the last 3 years I have volunteered with MACS as a mentor in Wellbeing Support Services, a role which I find immensely rewarding. 

I have seen first-hand the services delivered by MACS and the positive impact the Charity has on the life of a young person. I am delighted to be able to work with fellow Board members to provide strategic direction and support; and ensure MACS continues to grow and develop its services centred on the young person.

Albert Hamilton

I have been the Chief Executive of a market research company based in Belfast since 2003. Before that I worked with Business in the Community on programmes to help employees invest their skills to benefit third sector organisations. I have degrees in Statistics & Operational Research, and in Philosophy and Psychology and a strong interest in Behavioural Science. I’m also on the Board of Kabosh Theatre Company.

Why MACS?

I’ve always thought of MACS as such an inspiring organisation. We all need help at various stages in our lives, but what if you don’t have someone to turn to when you need it most? MACS gives young people the help they need to get back up on their own two feet and develop the life skills they need to be proud of themselves. It’s a privilege to play a part in that.

John Meikleham

I worked for 29 years in Critical Care in the NHS. I am a Fellow of the Society of Critical Care Technologists and a member of the Institute of Health and Social Care Management. I spent 40 years working in the Scout Movement in volunteer roles ranging from local Groups to International Level. I specialised in supporting the learning and development of volunteers, including governance support, spending 5 years as National Training Lead, responsible for the development of 7,000 volunteers. I have also carried out consultancy work in this area for the European Region of WOSM. I have had other volunteering roles including chair of a board of governors and vice-chair of Youthnet NI.

Why MACS?

I was attracted to MACS by their ethos of young people first and in particular its work to support young people who have not had a fair deal. Their approach to involving young people in decision making and supporting them to take the lead, not just in MACS but in life, has always been central to my work within Scouting. I hope to use my experience to support the work of MACS.

Aideen O’Neill

I am a Senior Consultant at Think People Ltd, specialising in Organisation Development. I have over 20 years experience improving individual and organisational performance and effectiveness with clients in the public, private and third sector. I have an MSc in HR Management and previously worked with Marks & Spencer, PwC and RBS.

Why MACS?

I previously volunteered with Belfast & Lisburn Women’s Aid as I feel strongly about not only providing everyone with a safe home but also with the support needed to make positive change. I have admired the work of MACS from a distance and am pleased to have the opportunity to support young people reach their potential.

Andrew Tubman

I currently work as an Assistant Director for Barnardo’s leading on national Helplines. I have a background in teaching and youth work having previously worked for NSPCC Childline. I hope to bring my experience of strategic leadership, people management, safeguarding and change management to support the board. In my free time I enjoy travelling the UK and further afield as a music examiner with London College of Music.

Why MACS?

Having previously worked with MACS I fully support the organisations vision and mission. I have seen first hand the successes and positive outcomes that have been achieved for and with young people. This is my way of giving back to an organisation that I learnt so much from previously.

Karen McCorry


I am an Assistant Director responsible for Mental Health and Addiction Services within Inspire Wellbeing –All Ireland charity specializing in services for Mental Ill Health, Intellectual Disability, Autism and Addictions. I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 36yrs both in the Statutory and Voluntary sector 25yrs of which have been at management / senior management level during which I have been responsible for the setting up, development and delivery of specialized services in the Mental Health field, including Family Services in Northern Ireland.
 I have specialty in the areas of complex needs, Suicide/ Self Harm, Safeguarding and trauma Informed practice for which I am a TIP and Aces trainer and also a Designated Safe guarding officer. Having a Psychology and Social care background I am passionate about developing robust supportive and preventative services across the community.
In my free time I stay active with, walking, keep-fit and Aqua aerobics. I also fundraise and support a number of local charities as well as Beat , national eating disorder charity.

Why MACS?


I have had previous experience of Macs through my work and have worked collaboratively on a number of projects in the past so I had a good understanding of the charity and the brilliant services provided .In 2019 a young family member had to avail of Macs housing services – I seen first hand the wonderful support, care and encouragement that was on offer and consistently for a couple of years for my family member and how they flourished as a result –Macs really did save their life . I felt I wanted to give something back and that my experience and expertise could benefit Macs.
 I am extremely proud and excited to be part of such a vibrant , forward thinking organisation that truly listens and promotes the voice of young people

Liguori Dobbin

I am retired after four decades in the Financial Services Industry, having senior management experience of strategic management, governance and regulation, leadership, and change management. I am also an adoptive mum with experience and understanding of the challenges facing care experienced young people. I’ve previously been Interim Chair of Generation Innovation @ Catalyst and a member of the Adoption UK Steering Committee in NI.

Why MACS?

After having successfully been accepted by Boardroom Apprentice in 2018, I began my apprenticeship with MACS NI for 12 months before being accepted onto their Board in 2019. I was extremely impressed with MACS pioneering approach. I continue to be inspired by how they provide support, housing and development opportunities for care experienced young people. And how they empower them by incorporating young people in the decision-making process which may change their lives.

Greg Yarnall

I am currently the CEO of RYA Northern Ireland and have held senior leadership positions in the not for profit sector for the past eight years. My experience has mainly been within sport, taking a lead on EDI and participation programmes, alongside developing and delivering training programmes for volunteers. I also hold two other Board Director positions, with Disability Sport NI and Table Tennis Ireland.

Why MACS?

Having previously been a Trustee at Home Start and worked at youth literacy charity Coram Beanstalk, meant I had a good understanding of the areas of work that MACS are involved in. The way MACS aims to put young people first really stood out for me and the programmes that MACS deliver show what difference can be made when the right support structures are in place. I look forward to seeing how I can support the organisation during my time on the Board.