Norah Casey
Norah Casey | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 28, 1960 Dublin, Ireland |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, magazine publisher, media personality |
| Years active | 1986–present |
| Known for | Founder of Harmonia; panelist on Dragons' Den (Ireland) |
Norah Casey (born 28 May 1960) is a prominent Irish entrepreneur, magazine publisher, and media personality originating from Dublin, Ireland.
Early life
Raised near Phoenix Park, Casey's family had a strong connection to the area, with both her father and grandfather serving as park rangers. Her initial employment involved working in the quarantine unit at Dublin Zoo, an experience that inspired her enduring dedication to animal welfare. She has collaborated with international organizations and the ISPCA to advocate for animal adoption.
At age 17, she relocated to Loch Lomand, Scotland, to pursue nursing studies. By 23, Casey transitioned to a new career path, undertaking postgraduate courses in journalism and television production at Harlow College and Ealing College. Her professional background includes roles with broadcasters such as the BBC, Sky, and LBC, alongside contributions to publications including The Irish Post. In 2004, she led a management buyout of multiple companies previously owned by Smurfit Kappa.
Business career
Casey possesses extensive experience in acquiring and establishing businesses, coupled with varied SME investments across Ireland and abroad. She enhanced her expertise by studying strategic management at Ashridge Management College. After five years working as a registered nurse and serving as a professional officer for the Royal College of Nursing in London, Casey embarked on her publishing journey at 26 by founding Harmonia. This acclaimed Irish publishing company is responsible for well-known titles such as FOOD&WINE Magazine, Irish Tatler, Tatler Man, Woman's Way, Ireland of the Welcomes, and U Magazine.
In November 2017, Casey divested six Harmonia titles to the US-based Irish Studio—also an investor in Irish Central—while maintaining executive board positions for each publication. She continues to publish Woman's Way, Ireland’s leading women's magazine, along with several other titles under contract.
Dragon's Den
Casey served as a panelist on Dragons' Den (Irish TV series) during 2011 for two seasons.
Today
She co-hosted the Friday edition of Today with Maura and Daithi alongside Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh but departed after one season.
The Takeover
Casey took part in RTÉ's program The Takeover.
Norah's Traveller Academy
On RTÉ2, Norah’s Traveller Academy showcased Casey mentoring young ambitious Irish Traveller women in career advancement and entrepreneurship amidst social obstacles.
Newstalk
Beginning in September 2012, Casey presented the breakfast show on Newstalk, leaving the role the following summer to prioritize family commitments.
Home of the Year
In 2016, Casey won a Celebrity special edition of RTÉ's Home of the Year, securing a €5,000 prize for charity.
Dancing with the Stars
Casey participated in the second series of Dancing with the Stars (Irish series 2) in December 2017, partnered with professional dancer Curtis Pritchard. They were eliminated first.
Personal life
Casey married broadcaster Richard Hannaford on New Year's Eve 1996. Together they had a son named Dara in 1998. Richard passed away from cancer on 12 October 2011.
In 2017, during an appearance on the Late Late Show, Casey openly shared her experience of abuse by her first husband. Since then, she has become an advocate for domestic violence organizations such as Women's Aid and has supported their #TooIntoYou campaign.