Theresa trained as a registered nurse in Dublin, later working mainly within the fields of intensive care and neuroscience.
After a time as Director of Practice Development and Research at Tayside University Hospitals Trust, Theresa joined the Scottish Executive Health Department in a wide-ranging role with responsibility for research, quality, safe and effective care, clinical leadership, practice development, acute services and strategy development. She went on to become the Deputy Chief Nursing Officer (Interim).
In 2007 Theresa was appointed Director of the Royal College of Nursing Scotland. At a time of extensive change not only within the health service, but also in the political arena, her wide experience and influencing skills bring a strategic focus and direction to the RCN in Scotland on behalf of the Scottish membership.