Hometree Expands Senior Team as Nature Restoration Charity Scales Work Across Ireland

(L-R) Ylonah Roelufs , Laura Costello and Briain Walsh join the Hometree team.

Nature restoration charity Hometree has announced a series of new appointments as it scales its work to restore native Irish woodlands, following a year of significant organisational growth.

Now active across nine restoration sites nationwide, spanning over 500 acres - alongside more than 1,500 additional acres in land partnerships - the charity works with landowners and communities to regenerate ecosystems, increase biodiversity and build resilient landscapes across Ireland, including areas of rare Atlantic rainforest.

Following strong year-on-year income growth including a 33% increase in 2024 and continued expansion in land under management, Hometree is strengthening its leadership and delivery capacity, Hometree is strengthening its leadership and delivery capacity to accelerate nature restoration, expand public engagement and build the partnerships needed to deliver lasting ecological change. As part of this expansion, the charity has appointed Laura Costello as Chief Communications Officer, alongside Briain Walsh as Forester and Ylonah Roelufs as Community Events Coordinator.

Matt Smith, CEO, Hometree, said:

“As the scale of the climate and nature crisis becomes increasingly impossible to ignore, the need for credible and ambitious leadership has never been greater. These appointments reflect Hometree’s commitment to meeting this moment. Our community and woodland teams continue to go from strength to strength, and it’s exciting to build on that momentum. The appointment of a Chief Communications Officer is a pivotal step as we scale our impact. Laura brings strategic clarity, creative leadership and a deep understanding of how communications can drive real-world change.”

As the charity expands its projects and partnerships, strategic communications will play a central role in mobilising support and shaping the future of nature restoration across Ireland. As Chief Communications Officer, Costello will join Hometree’s executive leadership team and lead the charity’s communications, brand and public engagement work. She brings extensive experience in strategic communications, leadership and brand development across global brands and purpose-driven organisations. 

Speaking about her appointment, Laura Costello said:

“Hometree’s work speaks to both the urgency of the nature crisis and the opportunity to do things differently. At a time when Ireland’s landscapes need long-term, practical solutions, Hometree is showing what’s possible when restoration is rooted in ambition, care and community. I’m delighted to join the team and to help build the understanding, engagement and support needed to drive meaningful, lasting recovery for nature.”

These appointments follow Hometree’s expansion of its senior leadership team in 2025, including the appointment of Marina Conway as Head of Woodlands and Land Partnerships.