FORMER Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has made a major switch on the job front, taking up a role with a US PR firm.
The ex-Fine Gael leader is set to start in an advisory role with US-based public relations firm Penta Group.
The company bought out Irish PR firm Hume Brophy in 2022, with Varadkar confirming that he will join in April.
The firm works alongside major global companies, such as Microsoft, Google and JP Morgan.
Matt McDonald, CEO of Penta Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Leo Varadkar to our team.
“His deep commitment to evidence-based policymaking and strategic leadership aligns seamlessly with Penta’s mission.
“His experience at the highest levels of government will enhance our ability to provide data-driven advice and solutions to help our clients navigate today’s increasingly complex global environment.”
Varadkar worked as a medical doctor before moving into politics where he served as Taoiseach, Tanaiste and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Health, Social Protection, and Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
He served as Taoiseach for two terms, from 2017 to 2020 and then from 2022 to 2024 when he stepped away from politics.
More recently, Varadkar took on a part time teaching and mentoring role at the Harvard Kennedy School Center for Public Leadership in the US.
Penta said that due to his work as Taoiseach, Varadkar’s work in “crisis management” and “progressive social change” will allow for expansion within the company.
Penta added: “As taoiseach across two terms … Mr Varadkar spearheaded major policy reforms and crisis management that have shaped Ireland’s strong global standing.
“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.”
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Speaking on his new role, the company said his expertise and commitment in policy making will be an asset to the PR firm.
Varadkar added: “In today’s rapidly evolving world, integrating data and evidence into decision-making is more critical than ever.
“Penta Group is at the forefront of using research and analytics to make a real impact, and I look forward to contributing to its innovative approach in helping global organisations navigate complexity with confidence.”
According to The Irish Times, ethics watchdog Sipo – Standards in Public Office Commission – has been consulted over the new hire and has approved the role.
Penta employs 350 global staff, which include 20 at their office in Dublin.
The company, which is headquartered in Washington, has offices across Europe, North America and Asia.
They have also been known to work with companies such as Open AI, Johnson & Johnson and Bank of America.
