Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has been relishing his ‘sabbatical’ since leaving office in April of last year. Soon, however, Leo will return to professional life, joining the U.S.-based public relations firm, Penta, as a consultant.
The global PR agency boasts a remarkable roster of clients such as Microsoft, Google, JP Morgan, OpenAI, Johnson & Johnson, and Bank of America. Varadkar has joined their advisory council and will contribute his extensive expertise in international leadership to the organization, as stated by the company.
Varadkar is set to formally take up his new position next month, where he will offer high-level strategic advice and collaborate with our global teams, as stated in an official release.
“As leader through two terms…Mr Varadkar led significant policy changes and crisis management efforts that have contributed to Ireland’s robust international position,” the firm informed The Irish Times.
“His expertise in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, economic development, and progressive social change will be invaluable as Penta continues its rapid expansion in 2025 and beyond,” it said.
Penta employs 350 staff globally, with 20 in its Dublin office. It has headquarters in Washington, but global offices across Europe, North America and Asia.
“We are delighted to have Leo Varadkar join our team,” stated Penta CEO Matt McDonald to the newspaper. “His strong dedication to policy-making based on evidence and his strategic leadership perfectly match Penta’s objectives,” he added.
Mr. McDonald stated that his expertise at senior governmental levels will strengthen our capacity to offer evidence-based guidance and resolutions, assisting our clientele in maneuvering through today’s progressively intricate international landscape.
Read more:
Leo Varadkar and his partner Matthew Barrett share their thoughts in their initial interview as a couple and discuss taking “the next step.”
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Leo Varadkar speaking about his connection with Dr Matt Barrett, pivotal life events, and his aspirations for what lies ahead.
Earlier this October, Leo spoke candidly about his understated lifestyle after politics alongside his partner, Matthew Barrett—they’ve been together since 2015.
Speaking on the
Podcast featuring Mark Moriarty discussing cooking techniques
,
Leo
admitted that he rarely does the shopping because it would take him much longer as he would be stopping to chat to people thanks to his political fame, so it makes more sense for Matthew to tackle that job by himself.
“After Mark asked me about what could be found in my refrigerator — mainly various items for homemade meals — Leo mentioned that he doesn’t handle the weekly shopping; instead, it’s Matt who takes care of it,” he explained.
I could pop over to the corner store for something… but I won’t go to the main one, no. It’s better for Matt to handle it.
