Varadkar lands new job with US-based PR firm

The former Taoiseach (Irish PM) Leo Varadkar is taking up a new role with a public relations firm.

The Washington based Penta Group has announced the appointment of Mr Varadkar to its global advisory board.

He will join the company next month.

Commenting on his appointment, Varadkar said: "In today's rapidly evolving world, integrating data and evidence into decision-making is more critical than ever."

The company, which has a network of offices around the world, said the former Taoiseach's "expertise in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, economic development, and progressive social change" will assist Penta's expansion plans.

According to Matt McDonald, CEO of Penta Group, Varadkar's experience at the highest levels of government will help the company's clients to "navigate today's increasingly complex global environment".

Varadkar served as Taoiseach from 2017 to 2020 and from 2022 to 2024 and was a key Irish and EU political player during Brexit negotiations.

He announced his resignation as Taoiseach just over a year ago after serving 20 years as a public representative in Ireland.

At the time, he described his period in public service as "the most fulfilling time of my life".

Penta acquired the Irish public relations firm Hume Brophy, set up by John Hume, son of the former SDLP leader John Hume, and Dublin businessman Eoin Brophy, in 2023.

Conall McDevitt, a former MLA representing the SDLP at the Stormont Assembly, is president of Penta and managing partner for Europe and Asia.