Chris Quinn – NI Commissioner for Children and Young People

Chris took up appointment as NI Commissioner for Children and Young People in September 2023.

He brings extensive experience of engagement with children and young people, and facilitating making their voices heard.  He has represented their interests, through a rights lens, locally, regionally and internationally, and has championed children and young people’s direct participation in decision-making.

Chris started his career working in the Star Neighbourhood Centre in North Belfast before taking up employment with the Bytes Project, working with young people in communities across Belfast. He worked for the Belfast City Council as Children and Young People’s Coordinator from 2004-2008, where he set up their first Youth Council.

In 2008, Chris took up the role of Director at the NI Youth Forum, where he served for 15 years, managing the organisation through the review of public administration and supporting young people to lead the youth forum through a changing policy and funding environment.

He lives with his wife and four sons, is a keen Manchester United Supporter and enjoys running.