Member spotlight

Caoimhe Nic Allabroin

Internal communication is at the heart of everything we do

I lead the Communications Department at St James’s Hospital, Dublin, where I established and manage a standalone function responsible for internal and strategic communications, media relations and public affairs and digital channels.

While the department’s remit extends beyond internal communications, in Ireland’s largest acute academic teaching hospital, serving over 5,500 staff representing more than 90 nationalities, internal communications is an integral part of everything we do.

Becoming a member of the IOIC has helped me stay connected to emerging trends and best practice in the profession. The learning from IOIC resources and on and offline events have also informed my work across other areas of communications, not just internal communications alone. 

It's a privilege that busy staff take the time to share their perspective

I’ve always had an interest in writing and in the power of words and language in general.

The element I most enjoy about internal communications is meeting new people and learning what motivates them. It’s a privilege that busy staff take the time to share their perspective, and I really enjoy promoting the work they do and seeing the well-deserved recognition they receive as a result.   

Membership encouraged me to be more intentional about engaging with the profession

Becoming a member of IOIC has encouraged me to be more intentional in engaging with professional conversations and keeping sight of what’s happening across the industry. I didn’t always make time to do this prior to membership.

What began as a small, reactive service has grown into something I'm really proud of

I’ve spent 18 years working in communications across healthcare, politics, and the community and voluntary sector, and there have been many highlights - largely because of the people who have supported and challenged me along the way.

One achievement I am particularly proud of is building the Communications Department at St James’s Hospital. What began as a small, reactive service has grown into a collaborative, delivery-focused department because staff , and patients believe in the importance of clear, person-centred, trustworthy communication.

From patient‑centred storytelling to clear and consistent internal messaging during challenging periods, the willingness of people to engage has shaped everything the department now delivers.

My advice to someone just starting out in the profession

Build your network. You’ll learn so much from your peers, and when looking for advice, it really helps to talk to people who understand the unique challenges of the profession.  

One fun fact about me

I always ask this question when interviewing people for the hospital’s staff magazine and I usually get a cringe reaction. I now understand why!

I’d love to reveal a secret talent or exotic fact but I’m afraid I’m an open book!