Extern Announces Appointment of New Chair

Extern has announced the appointment of Mr Brendan Johnston as Chair of the organisation, following confirmation at its Annual General Meeting on 14 April 2026. He takes up the role with immediate effect.

Mr Johnston brings extensive leadership experience across social care and youth justice in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. A qualified social worker, he previously served for over a decade as Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC), where he held responsibility as Statutory Accounting Officer and developed significant expertise in governance, regulation and public accountability.

His connection with Extern began earlier in his career while working within the Western Health & Social Care Trust, one of Extern’s long-standing commissioners. During this time, he worked in partnership with Extern on the development of Roscor Youth Village, now one of the organisation’s longest-established services. He later served nine years on the Extern Board, including six years as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee up until 2022.

Welcoming the appointment, Board member and former Interim Chair, Lynne McMordie said:

“Brendan brings strong governance leadership, a deep understanding of the public and voluntary sectors, and a clear commitment to values-based and trauma-informed practice. His experience, alongside his long-standing relationship with Extern and its commissioning environment, will be a significant asset as the organisation continues to develop and grow.”