I am Gráinne Daly, a passionate creative writer and academic with a PhD in Creative Writing from University College Dublin. Over the years, I have honed my skills as a writer, tutor, and facilitator, engaging with diverse audiences from community schools to university students. My work spans creative fiction, poetry, and academic research, often exploring the intersections of sport and literature. With extensive experience working in both corporate roles and the creative arts, I bring a unique perspective to my teaching and writing. I enjoy collaborating on literary projects and sharing my love of storytelling with learners and the wider literary community.

Gráinne Daly PhD

I am Gráinne Daly, a passionate creative writer and academic with a PhD in Creative Writing from University College Dublin. Over the years, I have honed my skills as a writer, tutor, and facilitator, engaging with diverse audiences from community schools to university students. My work spans creative fiction, poetry, and academic research, often exploring the intersections of sport and literature. With extensive experience working in both corporate roles and the creative arts, I bring a unique perspective to my teaching and writing. I enjoy collaborating on literary projects and sharing my love of storytelling with learners and the wider literary community.

Available to hire

I am Gráinne Daly, a passionate creative writer and academic with a PhD in Creative Writing from University College Dublin. Over the years, I have honed my skills as a writer, tutor, and facilitator, engaging with diverse audiences from community schools to university students. My work spans creative fiction, poetry, and academic research, often exploring the intersections of sport and literature.

With extensive experience working in both corporate roles and the creative arts, I bring a unique perspective to my teaching and writing. I enjoy collaborating on literary projects and sharing my love of storytelling with learners and the wider literary community.

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Language

Irish
Fluent
French
Intermediate
Italian
Intermediate

Work Experience

Board Member at The Irish Writers Centre
January 1, 2025 - Present
Serving as a board member contributing to the strategic direction and governance of the leading national writing centre supporting writers across Ireland.
International Literary Exchange Panelist at National Writing Centre UK
January 1, 2025 - Present
Participated as a panelist in the International Literary Exchange 2025, engaging with literary communities and promoting cross-cultural literary collaborations.
Corporate Support Team Lead at CarTrawler
December 31, 2025 - July 22, 2025
Leading the corporate support team, overseeing administrative and operational processes to ensure efficient service delivery.
Private Secretary to Chairman at Bank of Ireland
December 31, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Provided high-level administrative support to the Chairman including managing schedules, correspondence, and strategic communications over an 8-year period.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Old Bawn Community School
April 30, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Facilitated creative writing workshops and courses, fostering creative skills and engagement among community participants.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Castleknock Community College
May 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Led creative writing sessions aimed at encouraging literary creativity among students and community members.
Occasional Lecturer Creative Writing at UCD Lifelong Learning, University College Dublin
December 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered lectures and workshops on creative writing to adult learners, designing course content and encouraging literary development.
Tutor Creative Writing at University College Dublin
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Tutored undergraduate and postgraduate students in creative writing courses, supporting their development of fiction, poetry, and other genres.
Volunteer Learning Assistant at Museum of Literature Ireland
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Assisted with the delivery of creative workshops to visiting primary school groups, promoting literary education and cultural engagement.
PA to CEO at Paddy Power plc
December 31, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Provided executive assistance to the CEO, managing schedules, communications, and organizational tasks.
PA to CEO at Milestone Aviation Group
December 31, 2013 - July 22, 2025
Supported the CEO by handling daily administrative responsibilities and liaising with internal teams and external partners.
PA to Chairman and Managing Director at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2010 - July 22, 2025
Provided administrative support to senior management including scheduling, communications, and coordination of business activities.
Management Roles including Management HR Manager and PR Manager at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2007 - July 22, 2025
Held various management positions involving human resources and public relations to drive operational excellence and brand positioning.
Board Member at The Irish Writers Centre
January 1, 2025 - Present
Serving on the board of The Irish Writers Centre, contributing to the strategic development and support of the literary community in Ireland.
Panelist at International Literary Exchange 2025 (National Writing Centre UK)
January 1, 2025 - Present
Participated as a panelist for the International Literary Exchange, contributing insights into the literary field.
Corporate Support Team Lead at CarTrawler
December 31, 2025 - July 22, 2025
Led the Corporate Support Team, managing client relations and internal support processes to optimize operational efficiency.
Private Secretary to Chairman at Bank of Ireland
December 31, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Provided executive support to the Chairman, managing communications, scheduling, and confidential documentation for high-level corporate leadership.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Old Bawn Community School
April 30, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Facilitated creative writing workshops and classes to inspire and nurture student creativity and literary skills.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Castleknock Community College
May 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Conducted creative writing sessions aimed at enhancing students' literary skills and engagement with storytelling.
Occasional Lecturer Creative Writing at UCD Lifelong Learning, University College Dublin
December 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered lectures and designed courses in creative writing for adult learners, integrating contemporary literary techniques.
Tutor Creative Writing at University College Dublin
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Tutored undergraduate students in creative writing modules, fostering literary skills and critical thinking.
Volunteer Learning Assistant at Museum of Literature Ireland
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Assisted with the delivery of creative workshops for visiting primary school groups, supporting educational outreach.
PA to CEO at Paddy Power plc
December 31, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Provided personal and administrative support to the CEO, coordinating communication and executive scheduling.
PA to CEO at Milestone Aviation Group
December 31, 2013 - July 22, 2025
Managed executive support duties including calendar management and correspondence for the CEO.
PA to Chairman and Managing Director at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2010 - July 22, 2025
Offered comprehensive administrative support to senior leadership, including managing communications and logistics.
Various Management Roles at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2007 - July 22, 2025
Performed roles including management HR Manager for Head Office and PR Manager for new store openings, overseeing human resource functions and public relations.
Board Member at The Irish Writers Centre
January 1, 2025 - Present
Serve on the board providing governance and strategic oversight to support Irish writers and literary development nationally.
International Literary Exchange Panelist at National Writing Centre UK
January 1, 2025 - Present
Participate as panelist in the 2025 International Literary Exchange, contributing insights and evaluation of literary works and programs.
Corporate Support Team Lead at CarTrawler
December 31, 2025 - July 22, 2025
Lead the corporate support team, overseeing customer relations, process improvements, and team coordination to enhance service delivery.
Private Secretary to Chairman at Bank of Ireland
December 31, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Provided comprehensive administrative and executive support to the Chairman, managing communications, scheduling, and sensitive correspondence.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Old Bawn Community School
April 30, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Facilitated creative writing workshops for students, fostering engagement and development of writing skills.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Castleknock Community College
May 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered creative writing sessions to students, encouraging expression and exploration of literary techniques.
Occasional Lecturer Creative Writing at UCD Lifelong Learning, University College Dublin
December 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Designed and taught creative writing courses targeted at adult learners, supporting skill development and creative exploration.
Tutor Creative Writing at University College Dublin
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Tutored students in creative writing courses, guiding them in developing their writing abilities and critical appreciation.
Volunteer Learning Assistant at Museum of Literature Ireland
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Assisted in the delivery of creative writing workshops to primary school groups, enhancing literary engagement among young learners.
Personal Assistant to CEO at Paddy Power plc
December 31, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Provided high-level executive support to the CEO, including managing schedules, communications, and project coordination.
Personal Assistant to CEO at Milestone Aviation Group
December 31, 2013 - July 22, 2025
Delivered executive assistance to the CEO, overseeing diary management, correspondence, and administrative tasks.
Personal Assistant to Chairman and Managing Director at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2010 - July 22, 2025
Supported senior executives by organizing meetings, correspondence, and office administration.
Management Roles at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2007 - July 22, 2025
Held various management roles including HR Manager for Head Office and PR Manager for new store openings, driving operational efficiency.
Board Member at The Irish Writers Centre
January 1, 2025 - Present
Serve as a board member providing governance and strategic oversight to the Irish Writers Centre. Contribute to the development of programs supporting Irish writers and fostering literary culture.
Panelist at International Literary Exchange 2025 (National Writing Centre UK)
January 1, 2025 - Present
Participate as a panelist in the International Literary Exchange, discussing creative writing, literary arts, and cross-cultural exchanges between writers and literary institutions.
Corporate Support Team Lead at CarTrawler
January 1, 2023 - Present
Lead the corporate support team, managing client relationships and operational workflows. Oversee service delivery to ensure high standards and client satisfaction within the corporate sector.
Private Secretary to Chairman at Bank of Ireland
December 31, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Provide executive support to the Chairman of Bank of Ireland, managing schedules, correspondence, and strategic communications. Coordinate board meetings and liaise with senior management.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Old Bawn Community School
April 30, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Facilitate creative writing workshops for students, fostering literary skills and engagement with creative expression.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Castleknock Community College
May 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered creative writing sessions aimed at developing students' storytelling and writing abilities.
Occasional Lecturer Creative Writing at University College Dublin
December 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered lectures and courses in creative writing to undergraduate and adult learners as part of UCD's Lifelong Learning program.
Tutor Creative Writing at University College Dublin
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Supported and taught creative writing students at UCD, providing guidance, feedback, and fostering creative development.
Volunteer Learning Assistant at Museum of Literature Ireland
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Assisted in rolling out creative workshops to visiting primary school groups, promoting literature and creative writing.
PA to CEO at Paddy Power plc
December 31, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Provided personal assistant duties to the CEO, managing schedules, meetings, and communications.
PA to CEO at Milestone Aviation Group
December 31, 2013 - July 22, 2025
Supported the CEO with administrative and organisational tasks, including communications and diary management.
PA to Chairman and Managing Director at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2010 - July 22, 2025
Supported the Chairman and Managing Director through administrative assistance and coordination of meetings and communications.
Management Roles including HR Manager and PR Manager at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2007 - July 22, 2025
Held various management roles including HR Manager for Head Office and PR Manager for new store openings, overseeing human resource functions and public relations activities.
Board Member at The Irish Writers Centre
January 1, 2025 - Present
Serving as a board member contributing leadership and strategic oversight for The Irish Writers Centre, supporting literary arts in Ireland.
Panelist at International Literary Exchange 2025 (National Writing Centre UK)
January 1, 2025 - Present
Participated as a panelist providing insights and expertise in literary exchange and creative writing education.
Corporate Support Team Lead at CarTrawler
December 31, 2025 - July 22, 2025
Leading the Corporate Support Team, overseeing client support operations, ensuring effective resolution and client satisfaction in a corporate environment.
Private Secretary to Chairman at Bank of Ireland
December 31, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Provided administrative and personal support to the Chairman of Bank of Ireland, managing schedules, communications, and coordination of key meetings and events.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Old Bawn Community School
April 30, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Facilitated creative writing workshops aimed at fostering creativity and writing skills among students.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Castleknock Community College
May 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Conducted creative writing classes supporting the development of students' writing abilities and imaginative expression.
Occasional Lecturer Creative Writing at UCD Lifelong Learning, University College Dublin
December 31, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered lectures and designed curriculum for adult learners in creative writing courses, promoting literary skills and critical thinking.
Tutor Creative Writing at University College Dublin
December 31, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Tutored undergraduate students in creative writing, offering guidance, feedback, and support to develop writing proficiency and literary analysis.
PA to CEO at Paddy Power plc
December 31, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Provided administrative support to the CEO, managing schedules, correspondence, and special projects.
PA to CEO at Milestone Aviation Group
December 31, 2013 - July 22, 2025
Focused on executive support, managing communications and day-to-day operations for the CEO.
PA to Chairman and Managing Director at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2010 - July 22, 2025
Supported senior management with administrative duties, including diary management and communication.
Management Roles at Dunnes Stores
December 31, 2007 - July 22, 2025
Held various management roles including HR Manager for Head Office and PR Manager for new store openings.
Board Member at The Irish Writers Centre
January 1, 2025 - Present
Serving as a board member providing governance and strategic oversight to support the Irish literary community.
Corporate Support Team Lead at CarTrawler
January 1, 2025 - July 22, 2025
Leading the corporate support team to enhance customer and client experiences within the car rental service platform.
Private Secretary to Chairman at Bank of Ireland
January 1, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Providing high-level administrative and secretarial support to the Chairman, facilitating effective communication and meeting coordination.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Old Bawn Community School
April 1, 2024 - July 22, 2025
Designed and facilitated creative writing courses aimed at community learners, fostering creative skills development.
Creative Writing Facilitator at Castleknock Community College
May 1, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Delivered creative writing workshops and facilitated student engagement in creative writing.
Occasional Lecturer Creative Writing at University College Dublin Lifelong Learning
January 1, 2023 - July 22, 2025
Taught various creative writing courses targeted at adult learners as part of UCD's lifelong learning program.
Tutor Creative Writing at University College Dublin
January 1, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Tutoring undergraduate students in creative writing workshops and courses, supporting their development in fiction, poetry, and other genres.
Volunteer Learning Assistant at Museum of Literature Ireland
January 1, 2021 - July 22, 2025
Assisted with roll-out of creative workshops for visiting primary school groups, enhancing educational outreach.
PA to CEO at Paddy Power plc
January 1, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Provided personal assistance and administrative support to the CEO, ensuring efficient day-to-day operations.
PA to CEO at Milestone Aviation Group
January 1, 2013 - July 22, 2025
Managed CEO's communications, schedules, and administrative tasks to support executive management.
PA to Chairman and Managing Director at Dunnes Stores
January 1, 2010 - July 22, 2025
Provided comprehensive PA support to senior executives including scheduling, communication, and project coordination.
Management Roles including HR Manager and PR Manager at Dunnes Stores
January 1, 2007 - July 22, 2025
Managed HR functions for Head Office and coordinated PR for new store openings along with various management duties.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy at University College Dublin
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Post Graduate Diploma at Innovation Academy, University College Dublin
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2018
MA at University College Dublin
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2017
MA at Dublin City University
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2006
MA at Liverpool John Moores University
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2009
BA at Trinity College Dublin
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2003
Doctor of Philosophy at University College Dublin
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
MA at University College Dublin
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2017
MA at Dublin City University
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2006
MA at Liverpool John Moores University
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2009
BA at Trinity College Dublin
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2003
Doctor of Philosophy at University College Dublin
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Master of Arts at University College Dublin
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2017
Master of Arts at Dublin City University
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2006
Master of Arts at Liverpool John Moores University
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2009
Bachelor of Arts at Trinity College Dublin
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2003
Doctor of Philosophy at University College Dublin
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
MA at University College Dublin
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2017
MA at Dublin City University
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2006
MA at Liverpool John Moores University
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2009
BA at Trinity College Dublin
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2003
Doctor of Philosophy at University College Dublin
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Post Graduate Diploma at Innovation Academy, University College Dublin
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2018
MA at University College Dublin
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2017
MA at Dublin City University
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2006
MA at Liverpool John Moores University
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2009
BA at Trinity College Dublin
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2003
Doctor of Philosophy at University College Dublin
January 1, 2019 - January 1, 2023
Master of Arts at University College Dublin
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2017
Master of Arts at Dublin City University
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2006
Master of Arts at Liverpool John Moores University
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2009
Bachelor of Arts at Trinity College Dublin
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2003

Qualifications

Certificate in Financial Management
January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2012
Diploma in Advertising, Marketing and PR
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2003
Irish Writers Union Membership
January 11, 2030 - July 22, 2025
Sport Literature Association Membership
January 11, 2030 - July 22, 2025
National Association of Writers in Education Membership
January 11, 2030 - July 22, 2025
Irish Writers Centre Membership
January 11, 2030 - July 22, 2025
British Society of Sports History Membership
January 11, 2030 - July 22, 2025
Post Graduate Diploma in Innovation, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2018
Certificate in Financial Management
January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2012
Diploma in Advertising, Marketing and PR
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2003
Sport Literature Association Membership
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
National Association of Writers in Education Membership
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Irish Writers Union Membership
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
British Society of Sports History Membership
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Irish Writers Centre Membership
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2023
Post Graduate Diploma in Innovation, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2018
Certificate in Financial Management (ICM Certificate)
January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2012
Diploma in Advertising, Marketing and PR (ICM Diploma)
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2003
Post Graduate Diploma in Innovation, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2018
Certificate in Financial Management
January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2012
Diploma in Advertising, Marketing and PR
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2003
Government of Ireland Irish Research Council Postgraduate Scholarship
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2022
Certificate in Financial Management (ICM Certificate)
January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2012
Diploma in Advertising, Marketing and PR (ICM Diploma)
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2003
Government of Ireland Irish Research Council Postgraduate Scholarship
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2022
Arts Council Agility Award
January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024
South Dublin County Council Artists Bursary
January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023
Arts Council Agility Award
August 1, 2021 - August 31, 2021
Post Graduate Diploma in Innovation, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2018
Certificate in Financial Management (ICM Certificate)
January 1, 2010 - January 1, 2012
Diploma in Advertising, Marketing and PR (ICM Diploma)
January 1, 2002 - January 1, 2003

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Financial Services, Retail, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services