Chamberlink Issue 1 - Cork March on America

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Cork March on America

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Margaret Urbanowicz Sómas Studio

ChamberLink

Collaboration is the cornerstone of business growth and in the broader sense, it is a key component of our region’s economic growth. It is through collaboration that innovation is fostered, new opportunities harnessed and common interests explored more efficiently, sustainably and meaningfully. Collaboration has given rise to some of the most interesting success stories right across our city region, and has resulted in greater business success, more colourful communities and innovative solutions to business and societal issues.

While it comes as no surprise to those of us already familiar with Cork’s many bounties, our region punches well above its weight on the international stage as an attractive location to live and work, and of course to visit. Our culture of collaboration is a key component to how Cork excels.

Engagement with our members allows us to forge our agenda for the year ahead. During quarter one many members provided insights and feedback to us on business experiences which are indicators of the health of our region’s economy and which point us towards issues impacting on business and economic growth. Across industries there are a number of common challenges which we will continue to address through our programme of political, stakeholder and member engagements.

March has brought the welcome opportunity to travel. Through our international relations activity we develop partnerships and promote Cork as a destination for business and our recent programme of events and meetings brought us right across

the US. It is a privilege to represent a region that has so much to offer and the recent high rankings that Cork received at the Financial Times European Cities and Regions of the Future Awards 2023 are testament to great work being done to ensure Cork remains competitive on the international stage.

Closer to home we had the pleasure of announcing the Cork Company of the Year as Stryker and each category winner, LegitFit, M & P O’Sullivan and Amarenco – each business worthy stars in their category. We look forward to launching our Cork Digital Marketing Awards in the summer –another occasion to recognise the success of businesses, teams and individuals in their field.

We look forward to a bright and positive season ahead and we plan to provide many opportunities for you to connect and grow. We will continue to support your teams through our training and development and to enhance any international ambitions or activities you may have.

17 A year of opportunity

4 Shaping our Advocacy Agenda for 2023

6 Next Generation Leaders: Leading with purpose

8 Cork March on America

12 Offshore Collaboration

13 Growing Retailers Internationally

14 Meet your virtual twin, they could save your life

17 A Year of Opportunity

20 Win for Stryker

23 Can ‘Positioning’

Shaping our Advocacy Agenda for 2023

Throughout the year our Partners convene as a Thought Leaders Council to identify and discuss the key challenges and opportunities for the region’s businesses and economy.

In our first session of the year, held in early February in the River Lee Hotel, housing and apartment delivery, talent attraction, sustainability, transport and connectivity emerged as key priorities.

As a discussion session to help guide our advocacy strategy for the year ahead, it opened with a panel discussion moderated by Fiona Corcoran of Healy Communications with a diverse range of leaders from different sectors including TJ Hunter, Senior Director of Operations and Development Onshore Ireland & UK, Ørsted, Nicola Quinn, Tax Partner, PwC Ireland, Conor Galvin, Chief Executive, Dairygold, Andrew Flynn, General Manager, Janssen Pharmaceuticals Sciences and Garrett O’Keefe, VP, Customer Success and Ireland Site Leader, Solar Winds.

There was a lively discussion on the outlook for the year ahead, both at a national and international level for each of the sectors, and on what that meant for Cork and setting the Chamber’s priorities.

There was a positive outlook across the panel on growth in all sectors, but all the panellists also referenced the impact that housing shortages were having on recruitment and retention of talent, and the rising cost that rents were imposing on staff.

The discussion set the context for an interactive and lively workshop, where the whole range of issues from integration of new talent and connectivity from Cork airport, to the cross-cutting impact that delays within the planning system are having across industry and society by slowing the delivery of key infrastructure and housing in Cork featured strongly.

Some of the main interlinked themes and insights discussed on the day included:

Housing

Housing continues to be the number one concern for our members and was consistently highlighted throughout the workshop as a key economic enabler, specifically, high density apartments in the city centre. It is also intrinsically linked to the fierce global competition to attract and retain talent in Cork.

A number of key blockers were identified by our partners including the viability and affordability challenge of building apartments in the city centre, delays in the planning systems and high and rising rents.

Problems with the planning system and delays came up over and over again and while planning reform is underway, it is clear that more targeted measures from

government will be needed to deliver the scale of urban homes and the transport, energy and water infrastructure needed to ensure investor confidence, attract and retain talent and contribute to a lively and vibrant city region.

Skills, Integration, Talent Attraction & Retention

Cork’s economic opportunities are all linked to the need for skills both in terms of skills building to fulfil future needs for example as we transition to an energy system run 100% on renewables, and to ensuring we can continue to attract and retain high quality and diverse talent. Stronger links between industry and universities on R&D, and creating degree courses that produce more agile graduates were among the recommendations from the discussions.

Opportunities exist to build on the already strong business academia relationship to further develop key skills. However, how we integrate newcomers also came up as a key point for action to ensure integration and diversity and building an internationally competitive talent pool. Ultimately, ensuring Cork continues to remain attractive to investment and talent will require more housing, real action to combat climate change, and a good quality of life for those who chose to do business in and make Cork their home.

Energy, Sustainability & Climate Action

Energy security, sustainability and deployment of renewables were very prominent in discussions and will be key to Ireland and Cork’s ability to take climate action. Delivering on these key objectives will depend on a number of key factors, from encouraging & facilitating public and active travel, taking advantage of our renewable energy potential, reversing the biodiversity crisis and creating green spaces and pushing sustainability down supply chains. With Cork’s designation to be a climate neutral city by 2030, it was clear that faster change and diverse leadership is needed to drive this agenda forward.

It was highlighted across the room that there is a distinct opportunity for Cork to utilise its natural wind resources, the facilities at the Port of Cork, and the strong energy cluster to drive forward renewable energy development and enhance our energy security. While there are regulatory and human resourcing challenges, the opportunity for Cork to be a hub are immense and there is great positivity and momentum in the industry. Ultimately, the deployment of renewables will be a key deciding factor for future FDI choosing Cork.

Public Transport & Connectivity

Getting people out of the cars and onto public transport is one of the easiest ways to decarbonise our city region, decongest our roads, improve air quality and attract international talent who expect to have a comprehensive public transport system to get around. The delivery of strategic roads including the M28 and N25, connectivity to the Port of Cork, and more routes out of Cork Airport to key business locations were identified as key priorities on the day.

Cork Chamber is consistently pushing for the accelerated delivery of the M28 to open up the docklands to housing and enable the port to reach its potential and fortunately, Cork is well placed and on the way to achieving public transport goals with the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy, the planned electrification and expansion of suburban rail to the East and North of the city, and BusConnects Cork.

Parallel to this is improving our regional, national and international connectivity.

We are fortunate to be part of a vibrant business community where innovation is fostered, collaboration is championed, and business leaders are focused on viewing the glass half full of the opportunities that await us. We at Cork Chamber look forward to working with all stakeholders and government to drive this business agenda forward.

Leading with purpose

In the first in this Next Gen Leaders series, Deloitte partner, Kevin Butler, speaks with Deirdre McCarthy, Head of Strategy at Dairygold Co-operative Society. The wide-ranging conversation discusses topics from bringing purpose to life to sharing advice to those starting out in leadership roles. Deirdre also shares some wonderful insights into her successful career to date and what she has learned along the way.

Recently appointed Head of Strategy at Dairygold, Deirdre McCarthy explains to Kevin Butler, Deloitte how leadership for her involves setting a good example as well as emulating values of authenticity, honesty and empowerment. Using her business acumen and embodied empathy to relate to her co-workers Deirdre exposes people to new opportunities and celebrates their shared success. “It is about being very true and authentic to yourself, because people will just see through it, and it doesn’t take very long.”

Instilling a sense of purpose

“It can be easy to become insulated and just stick to what your job is, staying within the guard lines. But unless we are giving our people an overview or exposure to different things that happen in the organisation, then they’re not going to understand how what each person does helps and supports the overall purpose of the organisation.”

While refreshing their strategy last year, the Leadership team sought deep collaboration and diverse representation across the organisation to instil that sense of purpose. “We had 50+ people working on the Dairygold Strategy. They were shaping it and moulding it. It is their strategy. It’s not a corporate strategy which leadership came up with in isolation.” By bringing the bigger picture of understanding to the wider organisation and allowing people to have a real say in that vision Deirdre believes that drives so much more ownership and then ultimately success by helping people align with the organisational purpose.

Striking a work-life balance

Recognising the importance of recovery and celebration, both in her personal and professional life is part of the culture that Deirdre believes in. As a young working mother, when the conversations began around joining the leadership team Deirdre understood that this decision wasn’t just hers but her family’s.

“Can we even do this? Why would we even do this? It’s a “we”, it’s our family, it’s not me going there as a leader, it’s our family. I think that’s something I probably learned over the years from previous roles that this decision was more than just mine. The decision needed to include a focus on both my own and our family’s well-being.”

They may seem like little things, but taking the time to go to the gym is Deirdre’s time to decompress and shake off the energy from the day so that she can be the best version of herself at work, for her family, but also for herself.

Her openness regarding her priorities is refreshing, “It’s about leading by good example, and showing people the way. I want to set a good example for my younger colleagues, to show them that it is okay to prioritise yourself and how important that is – you can’t pour from an empty cup.”

A changing dynamic

As many senior leaders can probably relate, going from an individual contributor to manager to then senior management your support system changes. Using her strong network that she has built over her career has been instrumental to Deirdre’s transition.

After being appointed, Deirdre sought to ensure that she remained approachable making sure to still have those water cooler chats. “It’s about appreciating the different perspectives and ensuring people know I’m still me.”

It is with that small offering that leaders like Deirdre can connect and lead with empathy, “The longer you are working you recognise you’ve been that person; whether

you’ve been having a tough time at work or in your personal life, you need to capture this moment now and recognise someone else could be feeling this way. And it’s not until it happens to you that you recognise the impact.”

Building trust and openness across the leadership team has also lent a hand to strengthening this new dynamic.

“Something we introduced recently across our own business is taking a day out once a month as a leadership team, to come together without the distraction of the dayto-day activities to be more strategic and to make space for those honest conversations.”

This approach reinforces that everyone is working towards the same end goal. “It’s the combined best attributes of each of our Leadership team that makes that one perfect individual.”

“Be kind to yourself”

We all encounter doubts and can lose faith as our careers progress, as Kevin points out, “Success isn’t a straight line but a journey full of peaks and troughs.”

To manage those doubts and keep that belief in our own ability, Deirdre’s top advice is to, “Be kind to yourself, you were appointed on your merit, your ability, the confidence from your CEO and leadership that they hold in you.”

Bringing the conversation back to the importance of a strong network, “When I look back on it, I had different mentors for different times and needs. Sometimes it would be professional and other times it would have been personal. That goes back to that network piece, knowing that you have this group of people that you go to for support but equally you can do that for them as well.”

Recognising that there will always be more to learn and room to grow at every level is central to Deirdre’s attitude.

“Ultimately, you put yourself into scenarios where you are getting the opportunities to stretch yourself. Whether you do it subconsciously or not, you are putting yourself out there because you want to keep going. If an opportunity is to come to your door you need to be ready for it and not just thinking about it for the first time.”

in association with

Cork March on America

The Chamber reflects on recent trade missions promoting Cork in the US

2023 is a year of milestones for Irish foreign policy. It marks 100 years since Ireland joined the League of Nations, 50 years since Ireland joined the EEC and 25 years since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. Our voice has continued to grow on the international stage since our independence. This can, in part, be put down to our successful engagement with our diaspora and how we utilise these relationships to enhance the effect of our soft-diplomacy.

There can be no greater example of this success than in the United States. Irish America has had a deep affiliation with home which has allowed us to open doors that remain closed to other nations. This has resulted in retaining and strengthening the.economic, political and cultural ties with the US. This year is no different and it is important that there is a strong Cork representation as part of the month of missions to the United States.

Through the Connecting Cork initiative Cork Chamber ensures that the Cork business community has a voice at these events that take place throughout March across the Atlantic….. and there was a busy schedule again this year.

CEO Conor Healy joined Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr. Colm Kelleher, Cork City Council Chief Executive, Ann Doherty and senior officials from Cork City Council as part of their visit to Cork City twinned city San Francisco. The delegation had a number of engagements including meeting Mayor London Breed on UN International Women’s Day. There were further meetings with our counterparts at the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce to discuss sustainability, climate action and how the business community is responding to the challenges and opportunities of carbon neutral commitments which both cities have signed up to. Consul General Micheál Smith and colleagues welcomed the delegation to Ireland House - the new host building for the Irish Consulate and state agencies on the west coast. Meetings with IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and Tourism Ireland provided the opportunity to update on developments in Cork and gain an understanding of local market developments and business environment.

At the start of March, President Ronan Murray and Conor Healy travelled to Washington DC to fly the flag for Cork as part of a very collaborative approach from Team Ireland. Here they had a series of meetings

An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD addresses Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, D.C.

culminating in the Ireland Funds National Gala 2023. This event brings together many of the key decision makers from Ireland and Washington including the House Speaker Kevin McCarty, Majority Leader of the US Senate, Chuck Schumer and An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason hosted a reception in honour of An Taoiseach’s visit with representatives from across culture, business, education, research and and government sectors. This level of access and visibility is invaluable to Ireland as a whole and to the future of Cork.

Attracting new investment and talent to Cork in the international financial services (IFS) sector is a strong focus of the Connecting Cork initiative. Cork Chamber’s International Relations Manager, Cathal McSweeney was in Boston and New York to represent the Cork Financial Services Forum on the 15th and 16th of March at the Irish Funds North American seminars. Speakers at the events included An Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD, Laoise Moore, Consul General of Ireland, Boston and many key figures from the funds industry in the US and Ireland. These events provide the opportunity to promote Cork as the IFS solution for industry organisations without a location in Cork at present.

Cork Chamber has continued its partnership with Ireland Gateway to Europe (IGTE) for 2023. IGTE promotes bilateral trade between Ireland and the US.

The initial mission this year featured engagements in Chicago, Boston and New York. The foremost event was the Boston College Ireland Business Council Peace Dinner to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement and celebrated Senator George Mitchell’s distinguished contribution. Guest speakers included Bertie Ahearn, Tommy Gorman and Joseph Patrick Kennedy III, United States Special Envoy for Northern Ireland. This programme aims to bring renewed funding and focus to the Good Friday Agreement pledge to “facilitate and encourage integrated education” which can only be positive for the island of Ireland.

March is always a busy and hugely productive month internationally for Cork Chamber. We are honoured to represent the Cork business community at such an important time for Irish US relations and to witness the success of Ireland on the international stage especially during a year with so many foreign policy milestones for our country.

Taken at San Francisco City Hall are Cllr. Paudie Dineen; Paul Moynihan, Director of Corporate Affairs & International Relations, Cork City Council; Ann Doherty, CE, Cork City Council; San Francisco Mayor London Breed; Maryam Muduroglu, Chief of Protocol, Mayor’s Office; Cllr Colm Kelleher, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork; Alma Murnane, Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Affairs & International Relations, Cork City Council and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

Ambassador of Ireland to the US, Geraldine Byrne Nason with Ronan Murray, President Cork Chamber and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber with Sarah Keating, Vice Consul and Kevin Byrne, Consul General of Ireland to Chicago.

Cork

March on America: Gallery of images from recent engagements in Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco and Washington DC.

An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD at the St. Patrick’s Day Reception at the Ambassadors residence in Washington

Pictured at the Irish Funds Seminar, in New York, are Cathal McSweeney, Cork Chamber with An Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD and Eoin Motherway, Chair Cork Financial Services Forum.

Ann McGregor MBE DL, Chief Executive, NI Chamber; Stephen O’Leary, President Dublin Chamber; Gillian McAuley, President, NI Chamber; Ronan Murray, President Cork Chamber; Mary Rose Burke, CEO Dublin Chamber and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

Ronan Murray, President and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber with Joe Kennedy III, US special envoy to Northern Ireland.

Taken in New York Cathal McSweeney, International Relations Manager, Cork Chamber with Pat Lardner CEO Irish Funds

Sister City Chambers meet to discuss current issues and further collaboration, pictured Rodney Fong, CEO San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

Taken at Enterprise Ireland office San Francisco Ann Doherty, CEO Cork City Council; Killian McMahon, Head of US West Coast, Enterprise Ireland; Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr. Colm Kelleher; Dáire Boylan, Enterprise Ireland (San Francisco) and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

An Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD addresses the attendees at Irish Funds seminar

As Ireland’s second city region, it is an international gateway to Europe and lies at the centre of the global economies of Asia and the Americas. Cork has a strong track record in attracting and retaining investment. There is a positive can-do attitude with a strong talent pipeline and collaborative inter-agency that inspires confidence in international investors and makes visitors feel instantly welcome.

Offering the perfect combination of vibrant and compact city-living, with spectacular rural and coastal scenery on the doorstep, Cork is full of character and offers a perfect work-life balance.

Connecting Cork is a Cork Chamber-led initiative to expand and develop our international relationships and to promote Cork for business, investment, talent and collaboration with a specific focus on the international financial services sector.

We would like to thank our Connecting Cork sponsors for their support which enables us to showcase Cork as a global business destination.

Offshore Collaboration

British offshore renewables delegation visit Cork to explore opportunities in the region.

Ireland and the UK have always had intrinsic trading and business links through years of shared history and culture.

With our economies and geography so intertwined it is inevitable that opportunities continue to arise for close collaboration and partnership. This can be demonstrated in the renewables sector, specifically offshore wind. The geostrategic advantages of Cork Harbour, the second largest natural harbour in the world, ideally positions it as a location for floating and bottom-fixed offshore wind projects.

We were delighted to collaborate with our colleagues from Department of International Trade (DIT) and the Welsh Government in Ireland, who are based in the British Embassy in Ireland, to host a welcome event for an offshore wind supply chain delegation to visiting Cork. The event allowed stakeholders from the sector in Cork meet the UK businesses and the offices from the embassy.

The core reason for the delegation’s visit was a ‘pitching’ session with Cork Chamber member DP Energy. This pitching session was designed to showcase what the UK supply chain has to offer for upcoming Irish offshore developments. The visiting delegation also visited the MaREI centre and received a presentation from Wind Energy Ireland.

Cork Chamber is excited and ambitious about our future relationship with our friends across the Irish Sea. We look forward to enhancing our connections in the new post-protocol environment we are now operating in.

Growing Retailers Internationally

The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) at Cork Chamber recently participated at the first in-person Retail Sector meeting in Florence, Italy. Colleagues from Germany, Italy, Belgium and Denmark gathered in late January for two days of intensive learning, networking and client development.

The EEN offers SMEs access to a broad range of business opportunities through its international network. The theme of the meetings focused on the EU’s direction and vision for the retail sector. The European Commission has developed an SME Strategy for a sustainable and digital Europe, aiming to support SMEs through strengthening their ability to adopt to climate neutral challenges and help them reap the benefits of digitalisation. The green and digital transitions may seem like

two separate issues, but really, they are dual challenges: neither can succeed without the other. Digitalisation is not a goal, more a tool to develop and transition to more sustainable practices. As of January 2023, new EU legislation came into force which requires large companies and listed companies to publish regular reports on the social and environmental risks they face, and on how their activities impact people and the environment. Although this law does not directly apply to SMEs, it can have a trickledown effect as to which SMEs larger companies choose to do businesses with. Therefore, the meetings focused on the tools which can make our retail clients more resilient in this green and digital transition. This included understanding which retail software is right for our individual clients, digital

solutions for excellent customer service, the 12 key steps to take when making a business cyber secure, as well as learning the importance of building a strong community over gaining new customers.

Retail is the country’s biggest private sector employer, and we want to continue to aid retailers’ ability to grow and create jobs. If you are an SME retailer looking to grow internationally, we can help. Please contact Grace at grace@corkchamber.ie and start your international journey with the EEN.

Small and medium sized retailers are of vital importance to the economy, and it is essential that we enhance their ability to grow internationally.

Meet your virtual twin, they could save your life

When someone close to you is diagnosed with cancer it always comes as a shock, there are the fears about how progressed the cancer is, what type of cancer it is and how treatable it is - and what that means for their future health.

Virtualisation would not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the effectiveness of cancer treatments but Dassault Systèmes’ virtual twins have revolutionised the process of trialling new cancer treatments, meaning no patient gets left behind.

In standard clinical trials a percentage of those who sign up to participate in the trial receive a placebo, so that the effectiveness of the treatment can be compared in the real world with a patient who has had no treatment – this is a standard practice for clinical trials. However, with Dassault Systèmes virtual twin technology that is now changing. For certain rare but aggressive cancers, when a promising new cancer treatment goes for clinical trial all the patients can now receive the new treatment.

The results and outcomes for the group of patients who would usually receive the placebo without knowing it can now be generated virtually by mining and modelling

decades of clinical trial data. This new method of using a ‘synthetic control arm’ is approved by the FDA, and means that instead of some patients not receiving the treatment and not being aware of that until the trial is complete, all the patients on the trial receive the new treatment. Not only does this mean that more patients receive breakthrough drugs, it also means more patients can have access to it earlier, while maintaining the same high clinical standards as any other drug trial.

“Through our extensive use of virtual twin technology across all areas of the Plant, Product, Process and Patient, we can greatly reduce the cost and time associated with drug development and patient outcomes. We are also able to ensure greater quality and faster regulatory approval through leveraging these virtual models.

In the Medical Device arena this also helps health care professionals to play out ‘what if’ scenarios thus helping them plan the best methods of treatment for patients and design appropriate medical devices that suit individuals need – such is the power of this technology,” said Kevin O’Leary, VP of R&D, Quality & Compliance, Dassault Systèmes.

The seeds of the application of this breakthrough technology in healthcare came from Dr Steve Levine, the lead for Dassault Systèmes’ Living Heart project, who had personal reasons to want to create a digital twin of the heart. His daughter was born with congenital heart disease, and when she was in her late 20s and at high risk of heart failure, he decided to recreate her heart in virtual reality.

“I watched, as most parents would, kind of helplessly, some of the best doctors really guessing what might work. It dawned on me that they really did not understand the function - and did not have tools to address things they had never seen before. If we can give an engineer a fully functioning jet to try out, why can’t we give a doctor a fully functioning heart?” he told CES 2023.

“The way an engineer can predict how a car might crash, fix the weaknesses before it actually gets into production, we can now start to do that in health care.”

Dassault Systèmes’s virtualisation and twinning technology was originally focused on the automotive and aerospace industry. The realisation of the wide applications in healthcare, and multiple other industries, led the

Dassault Systèmes’ virtualisation technology is changing the face of medicine writes Rory Kelleher

company to put a clear focus on how it could take medical treatments to the next level of effectiveness by the first modelling the effects on a digital twin before applying the treatment in the real world.

At Dassault Systèmes Cork, office engineers are working on all aspects of the end to end regulatory licensing and continuous quality improvement for these healthcare scenarios. The team are using machine learning alongside the virtual twins to help their clients to prevent rather than just correct production or patient delivery issues. The resulting data can be used to generate the appropriate regulatory approval content for agencies around the world.

The virtual twin approach helped Dr Levine to analyse and simulate how treatment will effect on a virtual person before it is applied on a live patient. It enables surgeons to potentially perform a surgery before ever entering the operating room so that they can optimise their approach and know before they go into to operate what the best surgical approach is.

Researchers can use the “living heart” to test potential treatments virtually before they are actually carried out on patients. This technology helps map out the patient heart conditions and test devices that may help children with difficult-to-treat heart conditions. Major hospitals’ including London’s

Great Ormond Street in the UK and Boston Children Hospital in the US are currently using this technology.

The Living Heart Project brings together leading cardiovascular researchers, educators, medical device developers, regulatory agencies, and practising cardiologists to drive a shared mission to develop and validate highly accurate personalised digital human heart models.

Dassault Systèmes is planning to expand the scope of virtual twin applications to push out the frontier on modelling the effectiveness of medical treatments and the team at its Cork office will play a key role in making that vision become a reality.

Through our extensive use of virtual twin technology across all areas of the Plant, Product, Process and Patient, we can greatly reduce the cost and time associated with drug development and patient outcomes. We are also able to ensure greater quality and faster regulatory approval through leveraging these virtual models.

Let’s reverse the tide on climate change.

A year of opportunity

The Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2023, proudly sponsored by AIB returned to the iconic City Hall on Friday 3rd February with over 960 business leaders, political decision makers and stakeholders in attendance including guest speaker Brian O’Sullivan, Founder & Owner of Zeus.

Celebrating the progress of Cork City and the Cork region, Ronan Murray, President Cork Chamber in his address spoke about the pace of change in the world we now live, “Technology and geopolitics are reshaping the global economy, the Irish economy and indeed our own city. In this new environment we have shown an outstanding ability to adapt and succeed, but to continue to do so, we must constantly innovate and continue to challenge ourselves.”

Outlining our “long history with innovation and fresh thinking”, Ronan continued “We need to take inspiration from historic innovators like Boole and continue to welcome creative thinkers from wherever they hail. That diversity of people and of thought, is critical to creating Cork’s knowledge economy. Everyone in this room has a pivotal role to play in continuing that drive towards innovation and entrepreneurism – this will be key to our future success.”

“Cork must continue to be a hub of fresh thinking. In this new modern era, innovation is not just for business, it is for society as a whole as we address the various challenges that will define this decade.”

Guest speaker Brian O’Sullivan, Zeus received a standing ovation following his captivating address outlining his own career and the impressive journey that he has chartered

for Zeus over its 25 years in business which has led to acquisitions across 30 countries with over 700 people now employed. Brian was delighted to announce news of further expansion plans closer to home “We are opening a new regional distribution centre which will bring Zeus infrastructure back to my home county Cork. Did I ever imagine that the business I created could give back in this way.”

Ronan’s closing words on an evening filled with optimism were certainly fitting ‘2023 is a year of opportunity for Cork.”

Pictured are Colin Hunt, CEO AIB who sponsored the event with keynote speaker, Brian OíSullivan, Founder & CEO, Zeus; Ronan Murray Cork Chamber President, and Conor Healy Cork Chamber CEO.Picture: Michael O’Sullivan /OSM PHOTO

Win for Stryker

The awards, in association with Vodafone Ireland and media partner the Irish Examiner, were presented at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner in Cork City Hall.

Cork Chamber announced Stryker as the overall winner of the Cork Company of the Year Awards 2023. Now in their 25th year, these awards recognise the diversity and vibrancy that exists in the Cork business community. There were four individual category awards presented on the night:

• LegitFit: Emerging Cork Company of the Year 2023

• M&P O’ Sullivan: SME Cork Company of the Year 2023

• Amarenco: Large Cork Company of the Year 2023

• Stryker: International Cork Company of the Year 2023

“Tonight is a wonderful celebration for the business community in Cork,” commented Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President. “The calibre of applicants for this years’ awards has been phenomenal, all of whom deserve recognition for their achievements. Our winners tonight LegitFit, M&P O’ Sullivan, Amarenco and Stryker, should feel exceptionally proud. It is clear that each has had a unique journey filled with ambition, vision and hard work, and I wish each winner every success as they continue to grow.”

On accepting the award Dr Bernard O’Connor, Vice President Advanced Operations & Global Additive Technologies at Stryker said: “We are thrilled to accept this prestigious award. This award is testament to the drive and dedication of our teams who are motivated to seek innovative and pioneering solutions in delivering our mission – together with our customers, we are driven to make healthcare better.”

“Stryker’s story in Cork began with 20 people in 1998, 25 years later we now employ over 4,000 people across six sites. Stryker benefits from the talent pool in Cork and works closely with our education and business partners to drive a programme of lifelong learning. We are proud of our success. Our continued growth and investment means that Cork is a hub for our Manufacturing, Supply Chain management and R&D...We are embedded in our community and our success is only possible with its support. This award is dedicated to all of the people who are part of the Stryker story in Ireland. We look forward to our continued shared success.”

Sinéad Bryan, Managing Director of Vodafone Business

Ireland commented on the awards: “Vodafone Ireland is proud to partner with Cork Chamber in celebrating the innovation, performance and growth of so many great companies. Through our support of businesses across the country, we are acutely aware of the challenging environment that currently exists, but we also recognise the determination and resilience that embodies Irish businesses and enterprise. Cork is well known for its competitiveness and ambitions for success, so it is a tremendous achievement for all of the finalists and the companies who came out on top in their categories. It is also encouraging to see the levels of diversity and depth of talent that’s based here in Cork which provides such a strong foundation for the impact and influence we see around the world. Congratulations especially to all the winners and we wish them all the best for the coming years.”

Cork Chamber announces Stryker as the Overall and International Cork Company of the Year 2023. Collecting the prestigious award at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner held at City Hall is Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President, Sinéad Scully, Head of Large Business, Vodafone Ireland who sponsor the awards, Dr Bernard O’Connor, VP Advanced Operations & Global Additive Technologies, Laura Healy, Senior Director HR, Stryker, John Crowley, VP Global Technology Officer GQO at Stryker, John Meany, VP Manufacturing and Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO.

Cork Chamber announces Amarenco as the Large Cork Company of the Year 2023. Accepting the award is John Mullins, Executive Chairman, Amarenco. Picture: Darragh Kane

Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President and Dr Bernard O’Connor, VP Advanced Operations & Global Additive Technologies, Stryker. Picture: Michael O’Sullivan /OSM PHOTO

Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO and Sinéad Scully, Head of Large Business, Vodafone Ireland present the Emerging Company of the Year 2023 to LegitFit co founders Ian O’ Sullivan, Gearoid Collins & Ryan O’ Neill. Picture: Michael O’Sullivan /OSM PHOTO

Patrick and Eoin O’Sullivan M&P O’Sullivan winners of the SME Cork Company of the Year 2023. Picture: Darragh Kane

Media Partner

Naoimh Frawley, Director of People, Operations & Governance

Diversity Matters

By promoting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work culture, companies can create an environment where employees feel valued and respected, and where they can collaborate more effectively. This can lead to increased innovation, employee engagement, and overall performance. To ensure that DEI is achieved in an organisation, there are several things that companies can do. Companies should focus on recruiting a diverse workforce, providing training and education to all employees, holding those in leadership accountable, promoting employee resource groups, and ensuring pay equity. By doing so, organisations can create an environment where employees feel valued and respected, leading to a more productive and engaged workforce.

DEI is not only essential for promoting a healthy workplace culture and driving innovation but is also vital for your employer branding and talent attraction efforts. In today’s competitive

job market, where top talent has more options than ever before, prioritizing DEI can set your company apart. One of the primary ways DEI contributes to employer branding is by demonstrating a commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment. A company that values diversity and respects all employees is more likely to attract applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. This, in turn, contributes to an employer’s reputation as a place where everyone can thrive.

Cork Chamber are proud to have been awarded an Investors in Diversity Bronze Award. The EDI Mark, enables businesses and organisations to be known as ‘Investors in Diversity’, providing them with a framework for success over three levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold. This award affirms that the Chamber has built a strong foundation to embed Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) across our operations and ensures we are equipped for the journey

of becoming more equitable and inclusive. The programme recognises existing efforts and supports the journey of continuous improvement by providing a structured framework to transform practices and culture. We will continue on this journey and thoroughly embed DEI in our team, in our governance, our operations and in advocacy, events and engagements.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are critical components of any successful organisation.

CAN ‘POSITIONING’ UNLEASH YOUR BRAND’S POTENTIAL?

Mobile security provider Corrata has enjoyed success, awards, and solid partnerships with leading mobile networks—AT&T and Three—bringing loyal business customers. But, like many CEO’s, Founder Colm Healy has greater ambitions: To seize the opportunity to play on an international stage—and propel the business to the highest levels. But where to begin?

“A s a CEO you see there’s this big market opportunity you’re not playing in. How do you ‘tool-up’ to address that market? We know we have the best product to serve that market. But there’s so much more to it than that!”

Corrata devised a uniquely powerful and userfriendly approach to protecting the mobile devices of business customers. This has earned them partnerships with industry giants like AT&T, Three Mobile UK, and Three Ireland, who recommend Corrata protection to their business customers. But, focusing on future growth, Corrata identified that while 40% of businesses buy their mobile security through their network operator, 60% do not.

“We’re not visible to that 60%. So, there’s this larger share of the market that we’re completely missing out. There’s a world out there we want to address. The US. Europe. We need to speak to potential customers, who value a high-performance product.”

BEST-IN-BREED, READY TO C OMPETE.

Confident that for their ‘best-in-breed’ product, accessing the US and European markets is a viable opportunity, Corrata set about positioning their offer to businesses. Success requires taking on giants of tech, with their super-powered marketing teams and budgets. This demands a clearly-differentiated brand that communicates key messages, to excite and engage potential customers. In spite of multiple attempts and false starts, finding the right positioning eluded the team.

“You reach a certain point in your evolution and it’s a pivot point. You need great clarity and a degree of distance to create the positioning and brand you need. My advice, you won’t get there yourselves.”

A dilemma not unique to C orrata. Marketing Magazine’s Mark Ritson offers this… “Remember … We are not the consumer … You can’t, as the ancient slice of marketing wisdom puts it, see the label from inside the bottle.”

PARTNERING UP.

“You may have ‘built a better mousetrap’, but if nobody knows about it, and what it can do for them, that’s not worth much.”

With a lot at stake for Colm and the team, they called-in outside expertise. “We took a lot of care finding the right partner to optimise our brand for this next stage. We’re not a huge company, we needed to maximise on our investment.” Corrata engaged specialist partner, TOTEM, to guide and define a new brand strategy, to position and brand Corrata in clear and simple terms.

SET TRAJECTORY FOR TRANSFORMATION.

TOTEM reviewed the market, interviewed customers and workshopped with Corrata’s core team, to uncover the insights needed. The process identified something unique and true to Corrata, “Having the most powerful mobile protection for business is quite something,” says Colin Byrne, Founder and Creative Director of TOTEM, “but we were struck by how easy the solution is to deploy and maintain for the client’s overworked IT department. Plus, with intense focus on privacy, Corrata allays end-user’s concerns and removes the friction that invasive security products can cause with employees.”

TOTEM’s findings led to a simple statement to distil Corrata’s proposition—to clearly express their positioning… “Easily, the most powerful protection”.

Captured in this deceptively simple phrase is Corrata’s ease of use and deployment, paired with the product’s powerful advantage over competitors.

CUSTOMER IN MIND.

This eloquently represents what TOTEM and Corrata were seeking. That ‘sweet spot’ between what Corrata were uniquely offering and what their customers need.

“Your brand”, says Byrne, “is what your customer thinks and feels about you. It’s your responsibility to influence that. If you’re not really clear, if you don’t simplify your message to focus on what’s essential — you’ll miss your opportunity to connect with what your audience needs.”

THE CL ARITY AND THE SPARK.

The results? Healy says Corrata are immediately better represented to the world. And better positioned to hire, “It’s about clarity and depth, we better understand our place in the world and our reason for being. Our culture as a company is clear. Our values are ‘bought-into’. After all, we co-created this, with TOTEM as guide, and they helped articulate it for us — with the creative spark needed to inspire and unite the team.”

The impact includes the appeal of the business to potential talent. Colin Byrne of TOTEM is passionate;

“To ignite your brand, it needs to be what you’re hiring for and rewarding as a business. Brand and culture are tightly entwined. This doesn’t just affect the experience of your people, it directly impacts your customer experience.”

THE E ND, OR THE BEGINNING?

Talking with Corrata about the journey, it’s easy to see the benefits to any business. Understanding how the offer intersects with the pressing needs of your audience. Devising a strategy to engage that audience. Adding a toolkit of key messages and visuals that connect and build your brand in the minds of customers. Is this the catalyst needed to ignite the next stage of growth?

It seems appropriate to give the last word to Corrata’s Founder and CEO, Colm Healy, “We have a lot to do, but we have built the foundations. We have what we need in place to get to work connecting with our ideal clients to grow the business. In the process we’re going to make the mobile workplace safer for businesses. Watch this space.”

The meaningful branding business. TOTEM.ie

In conversation with Colm Healy, Founder and CEO, Corrata and Colin Byrne, Founder and Creative Director, TOTEM.

Upcoming Events

For more information & bookings visit CorkChamber.ie

THURS 27TH APRIL | 7.30AM-9AM THE METROPOLE HOTEL

Join us for this Business Breakfast to hear from Dermot Usher, the new owner of Cork City Football Club.

Dermot was officially announced as the new owner of Cork City FC in December 2022 after the fans group, FORAS, voted overwhelmingly in favour of the takeover. Dermot wants to enhance the experience for fans at Turners Cross and will talk about how he plans to do this in the short and long term.

He will discuss his plans to build on existing relationships with local businesses, particularly those who sponsor the club, and create opportunities for other companies to support the club and get something back in return.

Dermot has a successful background in business having created the market leading bathroom brand Sonas Bathrooms. He will talk about the importance of looking at the customer’s point-of-view when running a business and how he plans to incorporate this into the business plan for Cork City FC.

RECENT EVENTS

Putting the Social Back into Social Media

Cork Chamber in partnership with the Marketing Institute of Ireland Cork

The first event of the year took place on 18th January at the Clayton Hotel Cork City. We were joined by Cian Corbett, Digital and Innovation Marketing Manager, AIB.

Cian spoke of the importance of real connections in a world dominated by digital content.

Business Breakfast with Marguerite Sayers, ESB

In association with RDJ LLP & Media Partner Irish Examiner

Our Business Breakfast took place on the 24th February at the Clayton Hotel Cork City where over 150 attendees gathered to hear from Marguerite Sayers, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, ESB. Marguerite shared insights into future plans, detailed changing demands and the importance of energy security and independence.

Intrapreneurship - Empowering Your People For Success

In partnership with Tech Industry Alliance, Munster Technological University, Tralee Chamber and in association with Cork Chamber Skillnet and National Software Centre (NSC)

Attendees had the opportunity to visit the impressive RDI Hub in Kerry for this event which took place on the 9th March. This tech event focused on Intrapreneurship and how to accelerate innovation from within an organisation.

Speakers included Karl Aherne, Chief Operating Officer, Fexco, Gillian Whelan, Chief Commercial Officer, Aspira, William Dalton, Vice President & Managing Director, VicOne (Trend Micro) and MC, Donagh Kiernan, Founder and CEO at Tenego Academy.

Michael Sheehan, Irish Examiner; Margaret Ring RDJ, Ronan Murray, President Cork Chamber, Marguerite Sayers, ESB, Conor Healy, Cork Chamber.

Marguerite Sayers, ESB

Conor Healy, Cork Chamber; Cian Corbett, AIB, Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber, Jerry Crowley, MII Cork.

Shauna Hynes and Aoife O’Donovan, Dassault Systèmes Limite

Colette O’Connor, Tralee Chamber Alliance; Manjit Gill and Gillian Bergin, Tech Industry Alliance, Joleen Looney, Content Llama, Donagh Kiernan, Tenego Aacadamy, Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber.

William Dalton, VicOne (Trend Micro).

Networking at Noon

Our Networking at Noon at Spaces, Horgan’s Quay took place on the 15th March. The rain didn’t stop attendees from getting a first hand look at the ever changing Cork City views at this modern co-working location, while getting the opportunity to mingle with fellow chamber members and make valuable connections.

Navigating a Rapidly Changing Landscape: HR & Employment Law Updates

In association with Adare Human Resource Management

This webinar took place on the 21st March and featured an informative presentation from Katie Ridge, Head of Employer Relations and Michelle McDonagh, Head of HR Consulting at Adare Human Resource Management.

The HR experts provided practical advice and guidance in areas including Statutory Sick Pay, Work-Life Balance, Predictable Working Conditions and the Protected Disclosures Act.

New Members Breakfast

In association with 3B1

Our New Members Breakfast took place on the 22nd March at the Chamber office. Our newest members received an overview of their membership benefits, had the opportunity to pitch their business and met the Chamber team.

Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber with Max Von MensenKampff, 3B1.

Deirdre O’Neill and Holly Deakin, Babelfís

New Members breakfast in session. .

Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber; Kenneth Dwyer and Irina Baeva, IWG.

Championing Ireland Chambers

Ireland celebrates 100 years

Dublin Castle was the prestigious venue for the Chambers Ireland 100th anniversary celebration. The event highlighted the achievements and contributions of Chambers Ireland and its member organisations in advancing businesses and promoting commerce in Ireland for a century.

Speakers on the evening included An Taoiseach LeoVaradkar, former President of Ireland and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson, Mairead McGuinness European Commissioner for Financial Services, ministers, senators, and many other influential business leaders. Also in attendance were groups from chambers around the country and Dr. Kieran McCarthy, author of ‘Championing Ireland - Chambers Ireland 100 Years Advancing Business Together’ a commemorative centenary book charting the history of Chambers Ireland since its establishment in 1923.

Pictured top left: Ian Talbot, Chief Executive Chambers Ireland with Mairead McGuinness European Commissioner for Financial Services; Fiona Candon, Chambers Ireland President; Former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson; An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Kieran McCarthy, author.

Pictured top right: Cork Chamber represented by Conor Healy, CEO; Naoimh Frawley, Director of People, Operations & Goverance; John Mullins, Past President (2011-12); Paula Cogan, Immediate Past President (2019-22); Ronan Murray, President Cork Chamber; Ann Doherty, CEO Cork City Council; Barry O’Connell, Past President (2015-16); Bill O’Connell, Past President (2017-18); Gillian Keating, Past President (201314) and Annie FitzGibbon, Director of Member Services.

New Members Corner

We welcome the following new members

Accountants/Auditors

Hyland Johnson Keane

The business and financial world is changing more rapidly than ever before. Our clients enjoy the benefit of the wide range of accounting and taxation services.

W: www.hjk.ie

Advertising/Marketing/Market Research

ePresence Digital Marketing

ePresence is a results-driven Digital Marketing and Web Design agency with local offices in Cork and Tralee, Co Kerry.

W: www.epresence.ie

Local Rank Tank

Increasing Pipeline through Digital Reach for B2B and D2C.

W: www.localranktank.com/seo-cork

Marketing Institute Ireland Cork

MII Cork is the professional body for marketers. Our objective is to grow a community of marketers through networking and professional development events.

W: www.mii.ie

Arts

Backwater Artists Group

Established in 1990 by artists for artists, our mission is to support and advocate for visual artists, enabling them to thrive at all stages of their careers.

W: www.backwaterartists.ie

Auctioneers/Property Consultants

WKN Real Estate Advisors

WKN Real Estate Advisors (WKN) is Ireland’s leading independent Real Estate advisory firm specialising in Valuations, Development, Construction and Asset Management across Ireland.

W: www.wkn.ie

Charities

Down Syndrome Cork

The Cork branch provides extra services and support to our members from birth. Speech and language therapy has been our primary focus over the years.

W: www.downsyndromecork.ie

Sample Studios

At Sample Studios we launch, support and sustain creative careers and practices in Cork.

W: www.sample-studios.com

Chemical/Pharmaceutical

Crystal Orgoimpex

Procurement solution company for chemical industries specilising in sourcing from Asia.

W: www.crystalorgoimpex.com

NorthStar Healthcare

NorthStar Healthcare, wholly owned subsidiary of McKesson, and a leading supplier of generic pharmaceuticals.

W: www.mckessoncork.ie/northstar

Tanner Pharma IE Limited

Pharmaceutical supplier for clinical trials and managed/global access programs.

W: www.tannerpharma.com

Consulting Engineers/Quantity Surveyors

NuEnergytek Ltd

A data-driven energy optimisation and consulting company, with bespoke hardware/software solutions.

W: www.nuenergytek.com

Contracting Cleaning/Supplies

Bailey Hygiene

We specialise in providing high quality, low cost in use, environmental solutions for Irish washrooms.

W: www.baileyhygiene.ie

Cyber Security

ClearSight Digital Forensics

Digital forensics service provider and consultancy. We provide a complete digital forensics and analytic solution to the corporate sector.

W: www.clearsight.ie

Education/Training/Languages

Assumpta O’Kane

Dr. Assumpta O’Kane is an occupational psychologist and researcher, a facilitator of transformation in adult development and a specialist advisor on organisational development.

W: www.assumptaokane.com

CE Innoculture

A Chinese/Irish group based in Cork. Through education, our purpose is to strengthen relations by building a better cultural understanding and increased cooperation between our two countries.

W: www.ceinnoculture.com

Empower Presentations

PowerPoint and Presentations TrainingEmpowering you and your team through the magic of PowerPoint.

W: www.empowerpresentations.com

The Public Speaking Course

A unique one-day course coaching businesses and individuals how to stand up and effectively speak in public. Breakthrough the fear and learn to communicate better.

W: www.thepublicspeakingcourse.com

Engineering

Viska Systems

Viska Systems are advanced automation specialists in the areas of machine vision, robotics and software development.

W: www.viska.ie

Enterprise/Trade Development

Meriado B2B

We are a global B2B marketplace designed for trusted trade between Chamber members.

W: www.meriadob2b.com

Financial Services/Pensions/Investment

Newcourt Retirement Fund Managers

Pensions administrator and provider of trustee services within the self-directed pensions arena.

W: www.nrfm.ie

Food/Drink

Lighthouse Drinks Limited

Irish whiskey/spirit bottler/manufacturer for third parties with online retail fulfilment services.

W: www.lighthousedrinks.com

Original 7 Beverage Co

Original 7 Beverage Co are a Microbrewery based on The North Mall, steeped in brewing history and experience.

W: www.original7.ie

Ruairi’s Kitchen

Bespoke cake maker providing delicious celebration cakes and baked treats to the greater cork area.

W: www.facebook.com/Ruairiskitchen

Hotel/Guesthouse/Conferences

The Sardinian LTD

Self-catering accommodation, property management and sweet cart rental services.

W: www.thesardinian.ie

IT Services

Blink Charging Ireland

Blink Charging are leaders in planning, installing and operating destination and route chargers on street, in car parks and worksites nationwide.

W: www.blinkcharging.com

Management Consultants

BDO Ireland

A team of senior business leaders combining our expertise and deep industry knowledge to revolutionise and disrupt the management and technology consultancy industry.

W: www.bdo.ie

Great Place to Work Ireland Ltd Management Consultants

Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture building and recognising great cultures.

W: www.greatplacetowork.ie

Matt Dornan Solutions

Consultancy service providing advice on business expansion strategies, compliance in life science and sales strategies.

E: mdornan@mattdornansolutions.com

Mary O’Driscoll Strategic Consulting

Consultancy in global life sciences and healthcare supply chains, helping leaders cut through complexity, make focused choices, and deliver value.

W: www.maryodriscoll.ie

Photography

Artisan Chronicles

Commercial and lifestyle photography, content ceation story telling through visual narrative.

W: www.artisanchronicles.com

Printing/Packaging

Zeus

Zeus offers a total solution to customers around their packaging requirements, innovation, design, sustainability, IT and logistics to a diverse range of customers in multiple sectors.

W: www.zeuspackaging.com

Retail

Right Price Tiles & Wood Flooring

Ireland’s largest Retailer of Tiles and Wood flooring with 26 stores nationwide.

W: www.rightpricetiles.ie

Recruitment/Executive Search

IGA Talent Solutions Ireland

IGA Talent Solutions Ireland is a branch which specialises in change & transformation who provides recruitment service across all sectors, delivering both individual hires and full project teams.

W: www.igatalent.com

Ward Personnel Limited

Ward Personnel are one of Ireland’s leading recruitment services providers in the Construction and Industrial sectors.

W: www.wardpersonnel.com

Solicitors/Legal Services

Murphy Mediation

Providing Mediation Services and Conflict Resolution to the Business Community and to Individuals.

W: www.murphymediation.ie

Taylor Wessing Ireland LLP

Taylor Wessing is a global law firm that serves the world’s most innovative people and businesses.

W: www.taylorwessing.com

Sustainability

O’Donnell Environmental Ltd.

O’Donnell Environmental is an independent environmental consultancy which provides quality, client-focused ecological, environmental, and sustainability services to public and private sector clients.

W: www.odonnellenviro.ie

Travel Agents

Bonner Travel

Together with our remarkable guides, Bonner Travel promise to create the best tour possible. If you can dream it, we will most certainly strive to deliver.

W: www.bonner-travel.com

sponsored by

RDJ adds four new partners

RDJ has announced the appointment of four Partners across the Firm’s banking and finance, cyber and data protection, and dispute resolution practices.

The new partners are Tomás McDonagh, Dispute Resolution; Brian Morrissey, Dispute Resolution; Jennifer Noctor, Data Protection and Aisling O’Donovan Banking and Finance. Managing Partner at RDJ, Jamie Olden, commenting on the appointments, said, “I am delighted for all of our new partners on reaching this milestone in their career. We are continuing to invest across our banking and finance, data protection, litigation and dispute resolution practices to meet the demand from clients across our network. All of our new partners have demonstrated exemplary client service skills and we look forward to having them play a key role in the firm’s future as they start the next phase of their careers here in RDJ”.

A new defibrillator has been installed at the Ringaskiddy Community Centre thanks to a generous donation by a local Cork company Representatives from the Ringaskiddy Residents Association, the Port of Cork Company and the National Ambulance service gathered together in the town to mark the occasion. The defibrillator will be stored in a specially-built locker provided by the National Ambulance Service, whose members will be training residents on how to properly use the device. CEO of the Port of Cork Company, Eoin McGettigan stated, “We are delighted to support our neighbours at the RIngaskiddy Community Centre, who support us constantly in our business and operations at the Port of Cork. Every town and village in Ireland should have at least one defibrillator - it is an essential service that could save a life.”

Pictured above are (L-R) Tomás McDonagh, Aisling O’Donovan, Jamie Olden, Jennifer Noctor and Brian Morrissey.

Ger O’Dea, Community Engagement Manager NAS, Vivian Prout, Chairperson, Ringaskiddy Residents Association and Eoin McGettigan, CEO, Port of Cork Company unveiling a new defibrillator at Ringaskiddy Community Centre.

Port of Cork donates defibrillator to Ringaskiddy community

MMD Construction Cork are thrilled that were chosen to deliver ALDI Ireland’s latest new development, located just off the new Carrigaline Western Relief Road, creating up to 30 new permanent jobs in the locality, as well as 60 jobs during the construction phase. The new addition will bring to 26 the number of ALDI stores in Cork, while the retailer currently employs over 1,000 people in the county. Seems like the locals are looking forward to the opening too; a survey carried out by ALDI in Carrigaline found that 92 percent of those surveyed agreed that a new ALDI store in the town would “mean better value grocery shopping”, while 86 percent agree that “having an ALDI store in their local area will make their lives easier”. Featuring the brand’s award-winning Project Fresh layout, the 1,315sqm store will be powered by 100% green electricity and will feature 52 Photovoltaic solar panels located on the roof. In addition, Carrigaline shoppers will also benefit from four electric vehicle charging points at the new store along with 12 bicycle rack stands. It’ll be open to shoppers in 2024

city

One of Cork’s oldest companies has donated its historical archive, including a selection of neverbefore-seen photographs, to the city to be displayed at Cork Public Museum in Fitzgerald’s Park. An exhibition, ‘From Carriage to Car – The Early History of the Johnson & Perrott Group’, is now open at Cork Public Museum. The Johnson & Perrott material dates back to 1861, when the business was acquired by James Johnson, from whom the current owners are direct descendants. The collection includes the handwritten diaries of William Perrott, which detail his experiences of Cork during the War of Independence and the Civil War. Documents relating to the introduction of motorised vehicles to Cork for the first time in the early 1900s are also included, with the first second-hand car sold in 1903. As well as the archive, Johnson & Perrott is loaning two significant pieces to the Museum; a fully restored James Johnson carriage dating back to the middle of the 19th century, and an original sign from the original carriage works on what was then called ‘Nelson Place Carriage Works’.

Photographed here are Mark Whitaker, CEO of Johnson & Perrott Motor Group with Brian McGee, Senior Archivist, Cork City and County Archives Service and Daniel Breen, Curator, Cork Public Museum.

Pictured at Carrigaline turning of the sod, James Barrett, Contracts Manager, MMD Construction with Jamie Lucy, Site Manager MMD Construction and John Sweeney Property Director, ALDI Ireland. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

MMD Construction breaks ground on new €10m store

Cork motor dealership archive to be donated to

Corporate teambuilding has landed at Fota Adventure

Welcome to Cork’s first purpose built team development centre.

To celebrate this epic event we have added 3 new team building adventures to our existing award winning catalogue. At Fota Adventure, we have a history of successful team building. In 2018 we won Sports Business of the Year from the Irish Sports Federation. Our successful practice has evolved over time to become the back bone of many divergent sectors. Our corporate client list includes Stryker, Merck, J&J, Janssen, Pfizer, KPMG, PWC and Heineken to name but a few. Our sporting client list includes Cork, Limerick, Kerry, Dublin, Clare GAA, London Irish, Stoke, Burnley and Millwall (to name but a few more). As a result of working with these pioneers and evolving our practice we are able to announce our new development centre.

Stranded: 10-20 people – 3hrs

Stranded is the new interactive corporate teambuilding experience steeped in storytelling. Enroute to a sustainability research station, your plane crash lands deep in the heart of the Ogham forest. Your objectives are no longer relevant, your goal is now to get you and your team to safety. You need to find the black box, determine your location and radio for help.

The indoor forest, the ancient Irish language and the puzzles will do a first class job of developing your team work and leadership skills. You will experience, first hand, the scarcity of resources to plot a sustainable route through the humps, bumps and surprises along the way..

Cabin Fever: 5-30 people – 2hrs

There are five puzzle cabins at your disposal, your objective is to solve them all, get your fires lit and cook your booty. Each cabin will delegate an ambassador who receives instructions and relays them back to their cabin. Objectives are clear and challenging, It’ll take team work and clear communication to solves the puzzles.

Cabin Fever was specifically developed to improve situational awareness and prioritising goals, in a fun but challenging environment.

The Great Outdoors – 10-90 people – 3hrs

We have 22 acres of park land to find the best way to develop your team. We use the mine field as an ice breaker, the obstacle course as an introduction to competent communications before dividing into units in the survival area. Your newly formed “tribes” will build shelters, trade resources and develop partnerships to achieve your objective. It is a fun way of creating shared experiences, finishing with a bit of conflict resolution by way of “Kombat Archery”.

Fota Executive Retreat: 5-10 people – 48hrs

We have used all of our experience working on Irelands fittest family (2 seasons) and Ultimate Hell Week (2 seasons) to create our latest weekend retreat. This challenge takes team building and leadership development to the next level, without the necessity of “Hell” ultimate or otherwise. We take your execs, assemble them into a unit, provide them with simulations and give them the route to success. All they need to provide is perseverance and team work.

The retreat can pivot towards an “ultimate hell weekend” type experience for use as a charitable fundraiser.

Family Day – 100-500 people – 4hrs

We open our “great outdoors” to your company. We put on eight activities running every 30 minutes so your families can pick and choose as they see fit. We fill the pitch with inflatables, food stalls and benches so everyone can move at their own pace. The result is a relaxingly active day filled full of fun and memories.

The place where we work and play is entirely sustainable, we are also an integral part of Leave No Trace and Gold Medal Awardees of Sustainable Travel Ireland

Everything we do is in the grounds of the magnificent 5 star Fota Island resort where you can avail of their excellent facilities to make your visit to Fota Adventure a truly memorable experience.

Remember we are still available for birthday parties, school tours, sports teams, summer camps, water sports and family adventures, plus a lot, lot more.

For more information & to book, visit @fotaadventure.com

Recent Appointments

Partner, Crowleys DFK Director, PE Global

Crowleys DFK has appointed Donna Gould, Chartered Accountant (FCA), as Partner in the firm’s Accounting & Financial Advisory Department. Donna joined in 2010 and has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in accounting and financial best practice. Donna’s appointment is testament to the firm’s longstanding commitment to providing attractive career prospects to its most talented individuals. Donna, and many of the firm’s Partners and Leaders, began their professional journeys as Trainees with the company and have taken advantage of the firm’s culture of providing Learning & Development programmes to expand their capabilities, open up pathways for promotion and clear career progression.

Leading recruitment company, PE Global, is pleased to announce the appointment of Grainne Killilea to its board of directors. Grainne joined PE Global 10 years ago, with extensive experience working in the area of recruitment. Grainne’s current role at PE Global involves overseeing the company’s Irish Healthcare teams, which include Locum Express and PE Global Healthcare in Ireland. Locum Express, which is part of the PE Global Group, is a primary agency for the Health Service Executive (HSE) for the provision of locum doctors nationwide. In addition, Grainne also heads-up the permanent recruitment desk supporting PE Global’s team and clients.

Recruitment & Business Manager - Cork, Osborne

Osborne are delighted to announce the appointment of Karen O’Brien as Recruitment and Business Manager - Cork. Karen worked in the financial services industry for over five years before making the move into recruitment and joining the Osborne team in 2021. Karen has demonstrated a natural ability to lead and was instrumental in growing her division since then. She says “I’m really excited to support, guide and mentor Osborne’s growing team in Cork and work with clients across all sectors to recruit the right person, for the right job, no compromise”.

Business Development Executive, OfficeMaster

Patrick Murray joins the OfficeMaster team as Business Development Executive with over 25 years experience in commercial sales. Hailing from Skibbereen, he’ll be a welcoming presence at our office & showroom at Northpoint Business Park. Patrick says “My main priority is making sure my clients always have an excellent experience when dealing with OfficeMaster. Together we can create amazing workspaces!”

Donna Gould

Patrick Murray

Grainne Killilea

Karen O’Brien

Further growth at Grant Thornton’s Cork office with appointment of new partner

Grant Thornton Ireland has appointed Shane O’Neill as partner in financial services advisory at its Cork office. The move reflects the growing client demand for financial services and the firm’s continued investment in the Cork region. Hailing from Co. Kerry, Shane joined Grant Thornton’s Financial Services Advisory (FSA) team as head of technical change in 2021 and has significant expertise in the areas of strategic business transformation, digital, FinTech and RegTech innovation, as well as complex M&A programmes. With vast experience both locally and internationally, Shane is considered a key advisor in his area, and helps clients to shape, grow and launch their businesses.

Shane O’Neill is one of six new partners recently announced by Grant Thornton Ireland across several business units as the firm continues to grow in line with client demands across its locations in Ireland and beyond. The partner appointments in tax, corporate Finance, business consulting, finance operations and financial services advisory reflect a culture of promotion and ambition across the firm. Grant Thornton Ireland currently employs over 2,500 people across seven locations in Ireland, and has a presence in Bermuda, Gibraltar and the Isle of Man.

Speaking about his appointment, partner at Grant Thornton Shane O’Neill said “I am really delighted to be appointed to partner, a move which I feel is again reflective of the growing client demand in financial services for deep consulting expertise to support Digital and Technology transformation programs. Being based in Cork, my appointment shows Grant Thornton’s

Shane O’Neill

Partner, Grant Thornton

continued investment to the region. I am looking forward to further building relationships with businesses throughout Ireland and continuing to offer a service that will help them thrive in 2023. I am an entrepreneur by nature, having successfully launched a FinTech start-up before joining Grant Thornton, and it is this entrepreneurial spirit and experience that enables me to bring a fresh perspective to those businesses I work so closely with.”

Speaking on the appointment of the six new partners, Managing Partner at Grant Thornton Ireland, Michael McAteer said, “These new partner appointments show our commitment to promoting talent and empowering our people to achieve their ambitions. They also reflect and build on our plans for continued growth of our firm, in line with the needs of our clients.’

‘Given the economic situation as we head into 2023, there are several challenges facing Irish businesses including the increasing costs of doing business and inflation, an evolving global tax landscape, technological disruption, the impacts of climate change and Brexit. Grant Thornton is ready to support Irish businesses in overcoming these obstacles, to build resilience and effectively manage risks so that they can continue to thrive.”

Grant Thornton’s Cork office was set up in 2013 and is centrally located in the new Penrose Dock development, in Penrose One. In the ten years since its inception, the office has established a growing and diverse workforce, which now stands at nearly 250 people. Reflective of the growing demand in the region, it offers a full suite of professional services to clients across multiple industry sectors.

The five other partners have been appointed across several of the firm’s key business units including advisory services, finance operations and tax:

• Ann Marie Costello becomes partner in corporate finance advisory.

• Kevin Devenney is appointed tax partner.

• Trevor McCarron becomes partner in finance operations.

• Sarah Meredith is appointed tax partner.

• Padraig Ryan becomes partner in business consulting advisory.

For further information, visit grantthornton.ie

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