Chamberlink Issue 3 - Future Growth City

ChamberLink

ISSUE 03 2023

Future Growth City

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland discusses key areas of focus for the future

ChamberLink

Welcome to the latest edition of Chamberlink packed with news and updates from Cork Chamber and members.

Earlier this year the Financial Times published FDI Intelligence’s European Cities and Regions of the Future 2023 report. Cork was ranked the No.1 Small European City for Economic Potential. In addition, Cork was ranked 2nd for overall potential, 3rd for FDI strategy and 4th for business friendliness. These are important markers of success for the entire region and something that we can all be proud of contributing to.

At times it can be easy to overlook the success of our region – our small corner of this global community. Cork punches well above its weight with its pro-business environment, track record in attracting foreign direct investment, in nurturing startups and indigenous business – all supported in our vibrant ecosystem.

Known for being big on life, Cork is rated as the most culturally vibrant city in Europe across 168 cities when it comes to cultural vibrancy, the creative economy and the enabling environment of a city. So while we rightly often focus on what is yet to do, and how we envision the future of our city region, we have a lot to be proud of. Success is after all, measured by how well we navigate obstacles and harness our advantages.

The concept of success is more commonly considered in individual or singular terms, but the stellar success stories that we all revel in, are those that are collaborative, innovative and inspire meaningful

change for our businesses and communities. Our Cork Company of the Year Awards which are open for entries until mid October are an excellent opportunity for any business to celebrate their growth and innovation, and future ambitions.

Our autumn and winter training and events calendars are packed with a variety of opportunities for you and your teams to upskill, stay connected and network with peers. We look forward to welcoming you.

The calendar of advocacy activity is also busy, with Budget 2024 as a key annual milestone. We have engaged with national and local government through the year to proactively represent you, our members. Cork Chamber is the most active regional advocacy group dedicated to ensuring that Cork’s competitive edge is protected and advanced. Ensuring that Cork remains a wonderful place to live, work and do business.

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Golf Classic 2023

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Cover Image: Michael Lohan, CEO IDA Ireland Picture: Darragh Kane

Budget 2024

Budget 2024 comes at a time of unprecedented budget surpluses but also increasing constraints on growth across housing, transport, energy and climate, with a continuing inflationary cycle and an urgent need for planning reform.

In a detailed pre-Budget 2024 submission, Cork Chamber called on Government to focus on increasing capital rather than current spending, to strategically support balanced regional growth and to use the budget surplus to invest in medium and long-term capital investment plans.

Housing

The top priority identified by Cork Chamber members continues to be the number one barrier to business growth – the availability of affordable housing to support talent attraction and retention. The shortage of housing is consistently identified by our members across all sectors and sizes as the number one business concern with the potential to become damaging to our national economic and inward investment model.

In almost all our engagements with Government, including our budget submission, we have lobbied for a holistic

response to the housing challenge that will deliver mixed tenure across all development types, including extending the Croí Cónaithe Cities scheme to the rental market and introducing tax-based measures for apartment development. We stressed the need to increase the yearly targets under Housing for All from 30,000 units to 60,000 units in line with the Housing Commission’s findings and the rapid growth of our economy and population.

The housing challenge is our top priority, and we will continue to press forward and engage at the highest levels of Government to bring change.

Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath TD; Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber; Seamus Downey, Cork Chamber Budget Committee Chair and Tax Partner at EY; Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President and Ashley Amato, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive Cork Chamber.

Inflation, Competitiveness and Budget Surplus

Government must remain mindful of easing the many pressures being placed on businesses and households while also positioning Ireland as an attractive place for investment and talent. As such, increased capital spending versus current spending is essential, through investment in strategic infrastructure needs across housing, renewables and energy infrastructure and transport.

The cheapest infrastructure is the one we invest in now and is a long-term requirement for sustainable growth that will ultimately save on current spending in the long-term.

Along with this physical infrastructure, the internal architecture of business and entrepreneur supports need to be enhanced to further protect and develop the small, medium and large Irish private enterprises that are the cornerstone of our successful Irish economy. In our submission we called on Government to broaden the entrepreneur relief, simplify and relax the condition for relief in the Employment Investment Incentive Scheme, and to develop a fund to invest in R&D intensive start-ups.

Project Ireland 2040

The designation of both Cork and Dublin as EU mission cities to climate neutrality by 2030 opens up a plethora of opportunities for Cork to be an exemplar for other EU cities to follow by 2050, but there is no time to waste in getting started. Our deadline to reach climate neutrality is less than seven years away and delivering on this target requires additional supports from Government.

A dedicated fund to enable Cork’s 2030 climate neutrality journey would help in achieving these goals. The benefits of such a fund would also be felt in areas such as infrastructure, public transport, energy and housing which all require sustainable solutions not only from a climate change perspective, but also to further propel our city forward and to increase its attractiveness from an FDI and talent perspective.

Energy and Renewables

Cork Harbour, including Bantry, has the capacity to become an unparalleled hub for renewable energy, for both electricity and green hydrogen production. To reap the vast economic and environmental benefits and transform this potential into reality, investment into our major ports and grid, sufficient resourcing of regulatory authorities including the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, An Bord Pleanála and the National Parks and Wildlife Service is crucial to decarbonising our economy. A renewable energy taskforce for Cork would further accelerate the development of Cork

as a national renewable energy hub and coordinate the various aspects needed to meet these ambitions.

Along with transitioning to renewable sources of energy, there is an increasing need for focus on retrofitting existing commercial buildings, particularly those occupied by SMEs which often suffer from split incentives. Our Budget 2024 submission put forth a raft of recommendations to ease the financial burdens being placed on businesses in their retrofitting journey.

Education and Skills

Cork’s future success is intrinsically linked to our ability to continue to attract and retain high quality and diverse talent, and on skills building to fulfil future needs for the digital and climate transition. There is currently a funding gap of annualised core funding of at least €307 million, that has long been recognised by Government. Government must close this gap in order to further improve the quality of programmes, their outcomes and the accessibility of third level education.

An increase in funding towards apprenticeships, and research infrastructure and capability is needed to ensure we can meet skills shortages and continue to adapt, innovate and continue to live up to our reputation as a location for highly skilled talent.

Tourism

Tourism is a huge economic driver in the region with thousands of direct and indirect jobs depending on it. In recent years Cork overtook Kerry as the most prosperous region for domestic tourism, however more attention must be paid to this sector in Cork as it has so much to offer economically, socially and culturally. Enhanced investment in the tourism industry for marketing and sustainability initiatives is needed to ensure a sustained recovery for businesses and to counteract the challenges and shocks the industry has faced over the last number of years.

Our lobbying efforts, including those undertaken in advance of Budget 2024, are shaped by our members. We will continue to relentlessly work on your behalf to push these top agenda items to the forefront of Government to ensure that your priorities are their priorities.

Decarbonising the Built Environment

In April 2022, Cork city was selected to be one of 100 EU mission climate-neutral smart cities by 2030. This designation opens up a range of opportunities to build a smart future-fit sustainable city that is a world leader. It has the potential to position Cork as a trailblazer for other European urban centres to emulate before 2050.

Cork Chamber were pleased to facilitate a third level work placement student Laura Byron, MSc Cooperatives, Agri-food and Sustainable UCC, who undertook a Public Affairs and Sustainability placement over the last six months.

Laura’s research focused on one of the most challenging obstacles standing in the way of realising the vision of achieving net zero by 2030: Financing the decarbonisation of the built environment. The study analysed and compared international best practice case studies and also consulted with local industry experts with the key objective of overcoming financial barriers and accelerating the decarbonisation of Cork’s old and high carbon emitting building stock.

The research found that collaborative partnerships and tailored regional approaches that utilise innovative financing strategies play a vital role in overcoming the associated financial barriers.

Laura Byron with Fiona O’Donovan, Public Affairs and Communications Executive and Ashley Amato, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive

Invested in Ireland

At ESB, we’re thinking big when it comes to Ireland’s net zero ambitions. That’s why we’re investing in developing offshore wind and green hydrogen infrastructure, here in Cork.

We believe that Cork can be a significant contributor to building a future powered by reliable, affordable, clean energy.

Find out more at esb.ie

On Point Unscripted

The new Cork Chamber podcast series that goes beyond commerce.

Hear inspiring stories from people behind some of our well known brands and services, and let us go off script as we talk to high profile business people and politicians.

Listen online CORKCHAMBER.IE

Podcast Series

Justice Minister at Cork Chamber

The need for increased policing resources in the city was raised with the Justice Minister in a meeting she attended at Cork Chamber recently. The focus of the meeting, which was also attended by senior politicians including Minister Simon Coveney TD and Chief Superintendent Tom Myers, was to highlight some of the concerns associated with the need for a greater garda presence in the city.

“The meeting with Minister Helen McEntee was very productive and a wide range of issues connected to policing resources were discussed,” said Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO.

“The need for increased policing resources in the city has been on our agenda and we will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to ensure that Cork remains a safe city that is an attractive place to work, live and visit.

“The Minister’s engagement was very important, and we are hopeful that the necessary supports needed will be put in place to address some of the difficulties being experienced in the city and also to complement the growing population”.

“The need for increased policing resources in the city has been on our agenda and we will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to ensure that Cork remains a safe city that is an attractive place to work, live and visit.

Future Growth City

On his first official engagement with Chamber members as CEO of IDA Ireland, Michael Lohan discusses key areas of focus for the future.

In April of this year, Michael Lohan stepped into the role of CEO at the helm of IDA Ireland, taking on the reins of leadership. He is tasked with leading on the execution and delivery of IDA Ireland’s organisational strategy. He takes on the role at a time of great transition with climate change coming to the fore and in the context of challenges such as inflationary pressures, interest rate hikes, the ongoing impact of the war in the Ukraine and legacy issues associated with Brexit.

However, Mr Lohan says despite these challenges Ireland continues to perform well and the outlook for foreign direct investment (FDI) is positive, “Ireland ranks 5th in Europe in terms of its ability to attract FDI investment in its contestable markets, we are consistently 5th in that table”. Meanwhile the UK is on a downward trend in this regard as it continues to feel the effects of Brexit, “This points to the importance of policy and clear policy,” said Mr Lohan who also highlights that for the first time Germany has fallen out of the top five in terms of FDI inward flows. “Ireland is winning the largest percentage of capital-intensive projects than anywhere else in Europe,” he adds.

Looking to the future Mr Lohan acknowledges that in order to maintain this momentum there are challenges that must be addressed. From the outset he outlines the need for a clear plan to effectively manage the twin green and digital transition, “It requires not just capital deployment but human deployment, it requires innovation to understand how we are going to make that transition digitally and sustainably and that means we are going to have to look at our own skillsets and the delivery of those skillsets both from an academic perspective and an industrial perspective as well”.

There are specific obstacles that must be overcome, and that Mr Lohan sees as immediate priorities, “We have an infrastructure deficit, we have a planning system that isn’t fit for purpose in terms of delivering the response in a timely manner, we have a housing availability issue”.

On planning, Mr Lohan says an overhaul is needed. “Our planning system just takes too long, full stop, so there is no point trying to explain that away when the fact of the matter is, it takes too long. There is a response happening there but let’s make sure that response is adequate and gives us a solution.”

A major priority for the IDA under Mr Lohan’s leadership is housing and he says enhancing capacity to deliver is where focus needs to be now, “We need to increase our housing

output, we are starting to make progress albeit that we need more. I have had recent engagements with the Department on this and with a number of stakeholders…the feeling is we have a large number of interventions brought forward. What we need to do now is make sure we can implement all of those in a succinct and clear manner because a number of those interventions are unique, and they will actually make a difference. Then we need to support that in terms of the capacity to deliver.”

As Mr Lohan assumes his new role, another pressing concern that looms large is the state of energy supply and infrastructure. These existing vulnerabilities threaten not only inward investment but also pose a substantial risk to the overall economic well-being of the country. He compares Ireland’s current position in terms of energy supply to that of Denmark, which boasts a diverse energy supply portfolio, has renowned offshore wind capabilities, and robust local and regional networks, “What is the scale of Denmark’s energy capacity versus Ireland? The answer to that is, it is three times the scale of Ireland. We have failed to grow our infrastructure in terms of energy supply and that is our core issue. It is not about demand, it is an energy supply issue. We need to scale that, and I think that is where our offshore wind potential gives us that [opportunity] to grow in the future.”

With this in mind, support for the digital economy is another area of focus for Mr Lohan, and he says to do this data centres are needed and are a key asset and a key piece of infrastructure, “I know there’s a debate about data centres and the value of them [but] we’re starting the conversation from the wrong position.” He also says that data centres will be needed to embrace the likes of A.I, machine learning and the countless opportunities that technology will bring.

On other fronts Mr Lohan says Ireland continues to perform well, especially when it comes to talent attraction which has played a pivotal role to date in the success of FDI, “From an industry perspective we’re actually doing quite well, engagement with industry is really positive and really strong. From a talent perspective and a training and retraining perspective there’s any amount of support from a state perspective to do that.” While talent attraction is an attractive part of Ireland’s portfolio, Mr Lohan says the onus is on the Government to make sure it remains that way, “At a national level in terms of our investment in our education system I think we need to do more”.

Reflecting on IDA Ireland, Mr Lohan commends his team for the strong position it is now with over a decade of consistent year on year growth. From a regional perspective he outlines the success of the Southwest region where over 100 investments have been secured in a broad range of sectors including technology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and international financial services. Mr Lohan says the IDA remains fully committed to the pursuit of balanced regional development and compact regional development, but he says as part of that development industrial zones must be established to support city centre locations.

The IDA’s current strategy also has a clear focus on sustainability and Mr Lohan says this is already proving fruitful, “last year we supported 21 investments directly in sustainability, most of them in respect to energy efficiency and energy reduction but also in terms of building competency and capability in the skills base”. Mr Lohan explains that the IDA will continue to make strategic long-term investments in terms of digitalisation and sustainability. He says those who do not progress on this path will simply be left behind, “there is no standing still, the last few years have taught us the values of resilience, of agility and continued innovation”.

Cork is home to over 200 IDA clients and Mr Lohan says the future looks bright, “I’m leaving Cork after two days with a renewed confidence that Cork is going to be the future growth city, a position that can support FDI and an industrial base in the future”.

He also says there is an abundance of opportunity for Ireland’s second city across every sector, “There is now a chance to accelerate the city’s vision and ambition, growing the targets set out in the National Planning Framework and in Ireland 2040, while also leading a sustainable and climate action response. No

one doubts Cork’s credibility, you are ranked number one for economic potential in the Financial Times European Cities and Regions of the Future, you are ranked 24 in the world in terms of quality of life index ahead of Dublin, Berlin, and Paris so Cork has all of those ingredients in order to capitalise for the future.”

Employment growth at IDA client companies in Cork has grown substantially in the last five years however while this brings opportunities it also brings challenges. Mr Lohan says to maintain this success, sustain the anticipated future population growth, achieve climate neutral status by 2030, and to complement the ongoing redevelopment and rejuvenation of key areas in the city such as the Docklands, it is crucial that enabling infrastructure is in place as envisioned under the Cork Metropolitan Area Strategy.

“That growth cannot happen unless we ensure that we have sustainable modes of transport and sustainable living that can happen within those centres. We need to get that enabling infrastructure in place at the outset, as opposed to it becoming secondary after the commercial elements or the business elements.”

This year, as Mr Lohan celebrates his twentieth year in IDA Ireland, he says in the next phase of growth Ireland has to do more to maintain its attractiveness in an extremely competitive global environment, “Our success will depend on progressing towards enhancing the carrying capacity of the economy both in the immediate and longer term. The key areas requiring attention remain planning, housing, energy security and diversity, water and wastewater and some wider infrastructure.”

These are the essential elements Mr Lohan says must be correctly managed to safeguard FDI, “Ireland’s existing base of FDI is a core national asset, and one that we must nurture and indeed deepen and develop”.

Ireland’s existing base of FDI is a core national asset, and one that we must nurture and indeed deepen and develop

Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland with Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber. Picture: Darragh Kane

Navigating Leadership

In the latest in this Next Gen Leaders series, Deloitte Partner, John Kelly, speaks with David Walsh, VP of Finance at Keelvar. David talks about his leadership journey and reflects on how he applied lessons he learned during his time as an elite rower to become a better leader.

Problem solving was always something David enjoyed from a young age in secondary school where he gravitated towards subjects like maths and accounting. After leaving school it came as no surprise when David chose to undertake a BSc in Accounting in University College Cork, but it wasn’t in the confines of the classroom that the Ballintemple native honed his leadership skills.

David represented Ireland on a number of occasions participating in the rowing Junior World Championships and the Under-23 World Championships as well as winning a national championship with his own club in 2008. Rowing at an elite level was something that prepared him for the pressures of the working world, “You’re doing up to 12 sessions a week in training. You do learn discipline

through that, how to manage your time effectively and how to prioritise. Training always feels like it has to be the number one priority but equally you have to manage everything else as well on top of that,” said David.

David continued his rowing career while completing his training contract upon graduating from college. On reflection he says this period in his life provided the foundations for leadership, influencing a variety of different stakeholders in his life, “When you’re on a training contract, you’re working for the client and that work has to be done. There is no let up there so it is about squeezing everything in around that. In your personal life compromise on both sides is important to facilitate that, so it’s important to be aware of how your actions impact on others.”

Harnessing Transferable Skills

Within a rowing squad a small number of leaders emerge, and he assumed this role naturally, “I would have been one of the people that would generally step forward in that regard. I wouldn’t always be the most vocal, but I would train hard and try to set an example that way but also keep people on track, help make decisions and discuss issues with coaches,” he said.

This experience proved invaluable and enabled him to lead with confidence as he moved through his career. Speaking about rowing David said “It gives you confidence, that is the key thing, maybe not so much the skills from it but having the confidence to speak up and to be willing to take the lead on things, to be

the voice of a group and to be willing to give instruction in a constructive way”.

John completed his audit training alongside David and remembers him having a maturity and a composure especially when faced with pressure. This is something David says has been remarked upon before, and he believes this is due to his own mindset when approaching a problem, “I think it is important to keep a sense of perspective about what the worst outcome is in each situation. There is an element of what is the worst thing that can happen, and what can you control. It is about keeping perspective and also being confident and comfortable in the fact that you can see what the problem is, and the avenues you can go down to address this problem,” he said.

David continues that trust in his team has allowed him to become a resilient leader with the capacity to confront problems and prevent stressful situations emerging, “In a high stress situation that’s where mistakes happen and corners are cut, you’re the leader, you’re the one that should be carrying the stress, you are responsible for the outcomes so it is about trying not to pass that on to other team members. Trust they have the ability to help you, I think if you are holding too much stress there is a tendency to start micromanaging which I don’t think anyone enjoys, you as the leader are doing two jobs and it hits the confidence of the team”.

Embracing Leadership while Nurturing Talent

While his sporting career equipped him with empathy, an invaluable quality for a leader, he also understands the importance of developing a team and understanding aspirations, “You need an element of empathy and an understanding of people. Be willing to see things from their point of view. Understanding what someone wants out of their career, understanding what their medium or long-term goals are and trying to support them in that. Giving them the confidence and belief that they’re capable of what they’re doing, and if they want to upskill in a certain area to help them with that.”

Leading by example is a style of leadership that David practises, and that applies to work-life balance also, “For

me it is critical not to get consumed by work, I have always had something else that I have had to focus on. Make sure your work gets done but give yourself an opportunity to try and switch off from it. It allows you to manage stressful situations better”.

For David running provides that outlet, “I try and go running a couple of times a week, generally at lunch time. I have two young kids so once the laptop closes in the evening you have to switch mode and put the kids to bed and do dinner, so if you can find a slot in the day to get a run in it is beneficial, it clears the head”.

David emphasises that maintaining a healthy work-life balance, where home life holds equal importance to work life, is crucial, “No one needs to be working late for the sake of being seen to work late, that makes no sense to me. A lot of the time if you can’t get work done in the regular hours it’s actually a problem that needs to be solved. Whether it is a delegation issue, an upskill issue, a support issue there is always a solution”.

Organisational Culture and Career Progression

David has always worked on identifying weakness or shortfalls in his CV, and recalls advice he received from Conor Hyland, Finance Director at Heineken during his time on a training audit there, “His key points were, try and get something broad but don’t get too hung up on your first role, that doesn’t define you.” David took this advice on board and secured a position as the Group Financial Accountant with Trinity Biotech plc based in Bray where he says he got good, rounded experience. A self-confessed homebird, David had his sights on a move back to Cork where he hoped to take on more of a people management role. He was appointed Finance Manager in CoreHR, where he played a substantial role in the successful acquisition of CoreHR by the Access Group in April 2020.

Now VP of Finance at Keelvar, David is responsible for all finance, accounting and tax matters, whilst also creating a strong foundation to allow for its continued growth. He was the first core finance hire in the company, and now there is three on the team with expansion on the horizon, “It is a really interesting time to be involved in the company,

we are growing well.” The company specialises in sourcing optimisation and automation software for enterprise procurement teams and boasts a range of multinational clients such as Siemens, Microsoft, Coca-Cola and adidas. “A.I is kind of a buzz word at the moment, but we were doing it before it was cool,” jokes David. “It is constantly moving forward, a lot of innovation there. It is a great company with a good culture in there.”

In each position David has held, he has learned something new and brought something different but he says culture is one of the key aspects that draws him to an organisation, “You might be going for roles that tick the box for certain skills but outside of that a big thing for me is, do I get along with the interviewer as they should reflect the culture of the organisation. I have been lucky so far in working for really great companies and having very good relationships with the people I have worked for, which is great longer term as well because these are people far more experienced than I am, if ever there is a time that I need to bounce ideas off people I know that opportunity is there.”

The Road Ahead

The road ahead is a long winding learning curve, and this holds true for his development as a leader. He says that mistakes are inevitable companions, but ones that have paved the way for him to become a better leader, “There is always mistakes along the way, it is how you react to them and how you learn from them”.

David’s unique journey as an elite rower enriches his leadership style of resilience, teamwork and perseverance; values that resonate in both his athletic pursuits and his role as an effective leader. His story serves as an inspiring testament to the synergy of dedication, balance, and leadership excellence.

in association with

New Partners 2023

In recent months we welcomed the following members to the Partner Programme.

Amarenco is global solar PV and storage developer, investor and owner. The company is globally headquartered out of Cork and was founded in 2013. The company has raised over €500m to invest in assets across 14 countries. The company employs 240 people and has commenced its Solar PV construction across County Cork. Amarenco provides grid based and customised large commercial solutions for clients such Coca-Cola, Decathlon, McDonalds around the world.

At Johnson Controls, our passion is to build smarter, healthier and more sustainable tomorrows. As the world’s leading dedicated smart buildings company, we’re leading the building transformation by creating spaces and places that improve well-being, achieve climate goals and save money. We use industry-leading digital solutions, building automation and hyper-efficient heating and cooling systems to save energy and reduce emissions. And we continue to advance safety with world-class fire detection and protection, and smart security systems. We support our customers as they accelerate their journey toward a smart, healthy and sustainable future.

SSE Airtricity has been harnessing our greatest natural resource for the past 25 years, providing cleaner, renewable energy for homes and businesses across the country. Since 2008 SSE has invested significantly in Ireland, with a total economic contribution of more than €3.8bn to the economy. SSE owns and operates 29 onshore wind farms across the island of Ireland, totalling 809MW, capable of generating enough wind power to power over half a million homes annually, and offsetting over half a billion kilos in carbon emissions. SSE Airtricity has approx. 1,000 employees on the island of Ireland and is a certified Living Wage employer.

William Fry is a leading corporate law firm providing its clients with legal and tax advice across over 20 different sectors. With a strong international focus, William Fry has the largest number of ranked lawyers of any Irish law firm in Chambers Global 2023, Best Lawyers 2023 and The Legal 500 2023. The firm has offices in Dublin, Cork, London, New York and San Francisco. The William Fry Cork office is led by Brian O’Callaghan.

Cork Chamber has a strong and influential Partner Programme, made up of a range of companies spanning across industries from pharmaceuticals to professional services, manufacturing to agri-food, and from energy to technology.

Joining the Board

Our board, sets out a vision and strategy for our Chamber, designed to support our members’ growth and to enhance our city region. We are delighted to welcome 3 new members, Anne-Marie Linehan, Paul Hourican and Noreen Walsh to our Board.

Anne-Marie Linehan is a law graduate of UCC, qualified as a solicitor in 1991, and is a partner in J.W.O’ Donovan Solicitors on the South Mall in Cork since 2003. Anne-Marie’s practice involves advising corporate and private clients in the key practice areas of commercial and residential property, construction, banking and finance. Anne-Marie represents a number of developers, primarily in respect of residential housing schemes, a major lending institution and a number of charities including an Approved Housing Body. AnneMarie has lectured and hosted seminars on property law related topics over the years.

Paul Hourican is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader. He founded PFH in 1985, specialising in ICT Infrastructure and Managed Services. As CEO, he led strategic acquisitions, transforming PFH into PFH Technology—a nationwide group serving major clients, including government departments and multinational corporations. Hourican’s transition to Chairman in 2015 allowed him to focus on strategy and growth. He also advises businesses, chairs a private property investment group, and holds a position at Client Solutions Ltd. He led the sale of PFH Technology to Ricoh in June of 2023.

Noreen Walsh is Head of AIB Cork, Cork’s largest bank. She is responsible for leading a team of over 250 staff across 26 branches throughout Cork City and County. A graduate of University of Limerick, Noreen is a customer focused senior Financial and Banking services expert, with over 24 years experience gained from working in a variety of roles within AIB. These included positions in AIB’s Wealth Division, Regional Roles in AIB’s Retail and Business Banking areas and Branch Manager position’s in Mallow and South Mall branches. Noreen is responsible for driving the performance of her team by consistently putting the customer first and delivering the best banking experience.

Paul Hourican PFH Technology

Anne-Marie Linehan

J.W.O’ Donovan Solicitors

Noreen Walsh AIB

INNOVATION SERIES

MyGug’s recipe for Sustainable Energy

Fiona O’Donovan, Public Affairs and Communications Executive talks to Fiona Kelleher of MyGug about why food waste remains a pressing global issue, and how the potential solution is here in Cork.

As we grapple to come to terms with the effects of climate change and embrace ways to mitigate its pace, innovation will surely be one of the key tools in the fight against this crisis. Leading this innovative charge in Cork is MyGug, a Micro Scale Anaerobic Digester which offers a food waste solution, that gives abundant renewable biogas energy for cooking and a nutrient rich liquid fertiliser which is ideal for growing crops. The food waste treatment system aims to provide transformative change from the ground up, targeting food businesses, restaurants, home kitchens and schools.

The EPA estimates that we generate at least one million tonnes of food waste each year here in Ireland with the average Irish household throwing out 150kg of food waste at a cost of approximately €700 each year. In addition to the economic consequences, the environmental impact of this is a cause for great concern. When food is wasted, it ends up in landfills, where it decomposes and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

So how does MyGug fit into all this?

Co-founder of MyGug Fiona Kelleher explains, “We’re familiar with anaerobic digestion at agricultural and industrial levels, you have great outcomes there where biogas is being used to be pumped back into the grid and to power vehicles etc., but at this [domestic] level you have a problem that’s quite widespread in homes and businesses. You have all this food waste waiting for the [refuse] truck to come, whilst also having deliveries, food waste hazards on site, storage issues, energy being displaced to manage the food waste and then of course it’s unsightly. You have odours that are difficult to control, and you

have vermin problems. This solution gets rid of all that.”

“It’s win-win,” said Fiona Kelleher who explains that MyGug is also helping to deal with food security while also reducing transport emissions associated with waste food collection.

The man behind the design of the MyGug unit, and co-founder, Fiona’s husband Kieran Coffey had worked in landfill with the local authority and witnessed first-hand the impact of food waste and how difficult it is to manage. It was here that Kieran saw the need to create a solution to this and turn it into a resource. Following years of research and development MyGug went commercial around

18 months ago after the product gained interest from a West Cork restauranteur following its exposure on RTÉ’s Eco Eye.

“We put a unit into his café in 2019 and it is still there, it is doing its job, it provides them with 100% of their gas consumption, it gets rid of all their food waste, and they have the lovely liquid fertiliser they then use in their polytunnel,” said Fiona Kelleher.

Despite the many benefits associated with MyGug it is often a long road to persuasion. It is for this reason that Fiona and Kieran are also targeting the education sector. “Innovation comes first, and you have to try and bring people along that journey. You will know from looking at the journey of solar panels and wind energy and so on that these innovations take time to embed and become established, but we are getting a real spike in interest from businesses and education.”

MyGug units have been installed in Kinsale Community College and Bandon Grammer School and students are now learning about managing

the system which has application in a variety of different subjects including science, biology, home economics, and agricultural economics.

“We’re very interested particularly in education because we think that is a really important area to be targeting because it is that generation that are going to be taking this technology and driving it forward and it is exciting for schools as part of their sustainability story to look at all the food waste and actually use that for their betterment.”

MyGug has the potential to be transformative and will undoubtedly be an important tool in our arsenal against climate change, but there is a long way to go before this potential can be fully realised. Fiona Kelleher says conversations are taking place in the background with organisations like the SEAI and various other financial institutions to make this innovation more widely accessible, and she believes it will be a journey like that of solar panels and other similar technologies in terms of incentivisation.

“I think what we do need is action at Governmental level and incentivisation at SEAI level. Anyone that we are speaking to, whether it is partners that are working in the food service industry, schools or individuals, they all believe that this is a gamer changer both globally and nationally.”

One thing that Fiona Kelleher is certain of, is that MyGug is in the right place to succeed, “We want to keep the business here, we feel that Cork is a great city and county to be working in. There’s a fantastic ecosystem for enterprise in this country and particularly in Cork.”

Fiona Kelleher and Kieran Coffey, co-founders of MyGug

Golf Classic 2023

The Golf Classic in association with Lexus Cork took place on the 31st August at Castlemartyr Resort with over 170 players taking part. With teams teeing off from 7am there was a fantastic atmosphere around the clubhouse all day and thanks to the support of Chamber members everyone headed out to the greens with packed goodie bags.

Congratulations to the winning team from ETL Security who had an impressive score of 100 and won One Night B&B with Dinner in the Canopy at Castlemartyr Resort and Titleist StaDry Golf Bags. They will also represent Cork Chamber at a national Chambers Ireland golf competition in the K Club, Kildare in October.

Well done to everyone who entered and supported the Hole-in-One Charity Challenge in association with O’Donovan Baker LLP Solicitors. While no lucky golfer won the trip to Pebble Beach, nearly €1,800 was raised which will be shared between Togher Family Centre CLG and the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Pictured above Alan Ahern, Vice Captain, Castlemartyr GC; Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber; Emer Murphy, Vice Captain, Castlemartyr GC and Paudie Donegan, Lexus. Below Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber and Paudie Donegan, Lexus presenting the winners trophy to Tadhg Horgan, ETL Security.

Sponsored by

GOLF CLASSIC 2023 Cork

Upcoming Events

For more information & bookings visit CorkChamber.ie

WEDNESDAY 11 OCTOBER | 10.30AM-12.30PM REPUBLIC OF WORK

Join us for the first IN-PERSON Sustainable Cork Programme panel discussion where we will explore Cork’s net zero energy future and the opportunities that await business. Cork and Ireland Inc. are on the pathway towards a Net Zero economy. The deployment of renewable energy will be key to meeting our legally binding targets, decarbonising industry, providing a resilient and affordable clean energy supply and to continuing to attract foreign direct investment. What will this energy future look like and what are the distinct opportunities for Cork businesses? Hear from industry experts and those leading with conviction to drive real change in their sectors.

Panellists:

• Dr. Meadhbh Connolly, Future Opportunities Manager, ESB

• Tom Spillane, Director of Operations and Founder, Spillane Brothers International Transport & Warehousing

• MC: Dr. Paul Deane, MaREI, UCC

THURSDAY 12 OCTOBER | 7.30AM-9.00AM

Join us for this Business Breakfast to hear from Ann Doherty, Chief Executive, Cork City Council. In 2014, Ann was appointed Chief Executive where she is responsible for the strategic leadership and successful direction of an organisation that employs over 1500 staff and is the city’s only organisation, as provided for in law, that represents, leads and serves the communities of Cork City.

Ann will be central in driving the city towards its 2030 climate neutral targets. She led Cork’s successful bid to be one of 100 climate neutral cities by 2030, setting our city region on an accelerated path. Ann will set out what needs to be done to achieve this target and how collaboration, innovation, and adaptability will be key to securing the city’s future.

Book now to hear from Ann who will no doubt provide an insightful and interesting perspective on the future of our city, including the overhaul of the city’s public transportation system through CMATS and the eagerly awaited rejuvenation of the Docklands area.

CORK INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

IN ASSOCIATION WITH MEDIA PARTNER IN ASSOCIATION WITH

IRELAND’S ENERGY FUTURE AND THE OPPORTUNITY FOR CORK

ANN DOHERTY, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, CORK CITY COUNCIL

THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER | 12.00PM-1.30PM

LOGITECH, CITY GATE PLAZA, MAHON

Join us for Networking at Noon at Logitech as they celebrate the one-year anniversary of the opening of their new sustainable office facility at City Gate Plaza in Mahon. Their new Cork office highlights Logitech’s leadership in reshaping the new logic of hybrid work and sets Logitech as a benchmark for sustainability. The space’s human-centred design emphasises the company’s sustainability-focused business approach.

Creating an inspiring workplace in Cork through sustainability, including waste reduction, healthy work environment, and innovation, is a reflection of Logitech’s purpose and mission as they host approx 300 employees from a variety of functions, roles, nationalities, and backgrounds.

TUESDAY 21 NOVEMBER | 7.00PM-11.00PM

Join over 600 business leaders, key political decision makers and stakeholders as we gather to celebrate the relationship between Ireland’s two largest city regions, Dublin and Cork. This year’s guest of honour and keynote speech will be delivered by An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD.

Also on the night, we will present the Outstanding Contribution to Business Award for 2023. The evening is an opportunity to establish new business connections, to strengthen existing relationships and to meet with peers from both city regions.

Cork Chamber ensures Cork’s economic development is kept high on the national agenda and this event offers an exclusive opportunity for members and guests to network with Ireland’s most influential leaders and policy makers.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

CLAYTON HOTEL BURLINGTON ROAD

HR Barometer PulseUnrivalled Source of Analysis & Insights

in association with Adare Human Resource Management

On the 12th July, this timely webinar provided the findings of the latest HR Barometer Survey and what these mean for HR Practitioners in helping them to make informed decisions and support their planning & people strategies.

Sarah Fagan, Managing Director and Amanda Finnegan, Head of Retained Services, Adare Human Resource Management outlined insights on HR Priorities, Levels of Employee Turnover, Health and Wellbeing, Absence Management Metrics, Pay Increases and Conflict & Dispute.

Sustainable Cork Programme Webinar Series

in association with Cork Chamber Skillnet and ESB Generation & Trading

Preparing for Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive

(CSRD) outlined how companies can prepare for and engage with the new standards, the benefits of reporting, and the trickle-down impact on SMEs in larger supply chains. Nearly 100 members logged in on the 29th June to gain insights from our speakers including Derarca Dennis, Partner and Lead for Climate Change and Sustainability Services, EY, Matt Evans, Senior Portfolio Manager, Ninety One and Laura Morrison, Sustainability Adviser and Munster Network Lead, Business In The Community Ireland. Facilitated by Ashley Amato, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive, Cork Chamber.

Building Inclusive Spaces:

Empowering Employers and Employees offered insights from advocates in the field who shared their expertise, realworld experiences, and practical solutions in overcoming challenges and creating meaningful change. On the 14th September over 70 members came together to learn how we can transform our workplaces and communities into vibrant, accessible, and empowering environments for people of all abilities. Speakers included Stephen Kelly, Managing Director of Ability Focus, Mei Lin, Senior HR Assistant at Cpl and John Leane, Associate Director at Reddy Architecture + Urbanism. Facilitated by Ashley Amato, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive, Cork Chamber.

Business Breakfast

in association with RDJ LLP & Media Partner Irish Examiner

This Business Breakfast took place on 20th September at The Kingsley Hotel with over 180 in attendance.

Michael shared his perspectives on Cork and Ireland attracting FDI, the many success stories from Cork to date and the potential for growth with support from all stakeholders.

Setting Sail

in association with the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce

Over 100 guests stepped on-board the Brittany Ferries Pont Aven on 16th September to enjoy a three hour french luncheon. The event is held in association with the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce and offers members the opportunity to network with the France-Irish business community in Cork.

Gillian Flynn, Empower Presentations Beata Dagiel, Software Interactive Ltd. and Fiona Walsh, Empower Presentations

Pictured are Jamie Olden, RDJ LLP; Naoimh Frawley, Cork Chamber; guest speaker Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland; Ronan Murray, President Cork Chamber; Aidan Forde, Irish Examiner and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber. Picture: Larry Cummins

Rob Horgan, Vice-President, Cork Chamber, Councillor Frank O’Flynn, Mayor of the County of Cork, Áine Murray, President, France Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Councillor Kieran McCarthy, Lord Mayor.

Frank Urell, Tektron and Ray Keane, Ray Keane & Associates Don Cullinane, Roger Kelleher, Pat McGrath and Mark Tobin

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The Finnish of an era, the beginning of a new one

It was a changing of the guard in Cork as Roger Hill was appointed Finnish Honorary Consul by outgoing Finnish Ambassador to Ireland, Raili Lahnalampi on her final visit to Cork in an official capacity. Roger takes over the position from former Cork Chamber President Conor Doyle after 18 years of service as Honorary Consul.

As part of the Finnish Embassy’s visit to Cork, the Chamber was delighted to welcome Deputy Head of Mission Saara Heinola to Fitzgerald House. Ms Heinola gave an overview of their priorities for the next period and the links between Ireland and Finland. Cork Chamber is always excited to make new connections and explore areas of mutual interest.

We would like to wish the former Ambassador Lahnalampi well in her new role and look forward to welcoming the incoming Ambassador to Cork in the near future.

Chinese delegation visit

Since the turn of the century there has been a concerted effort made to increase links between Cork and China. This can be demonstrated by the twinning of Cork City with Shanghai in 2005. The objective of which is to develop cultural, educational, social, tourist, technical, scientific and economic links that have benefits for all communities involved.

In August, Cork Chamber welcomed our first delegation from China since the easing of their restrictions in January. As part of their mission to Cork, representatives from Shanghai,

Zhejiang, Ningbo and Nanjing visited us Fitzgerald House to discuss Cork’s business environment and how to grow economic relations between the regions. This visit to Cork Chamber was facilitated in part by Cork City Council who were involved in a wider .initiative to develop and expand links between local authorities in Ireland and China.

We look forward to our continued work with Cork City Council in reigniting the strong ties between Cork, China and our twinned City of Shanghai.

Above left: Delegation arrival at Fitzgerald House.

Right: Sha Liuyang, Deputy Director of Asian & Oceanian Affairs Shanghai with Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

Deputy Head of Mission Saara Heinola with Cathal McSweeney, International Relations Manager Cork Chamber.

Ambassador to Ireland, Raili Lahnalampi with Conor Doyle.

Making Connections

Successful B2B Matchmaking Event Strengthens Cork-Portugal Business Relations

In June 2023, the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) team at Cork Chamber joined forces with EEN Portugal and the Irish Portugal Business Network (IPBN) to organise a B2B matchmaking event. The overall goal of this mission was to bring together businesses from Cork and Portugal, providing them with a unique opportunity to forge potential cross-border contacts and contracts. The event proved to be a catalyst for successful partnerships and invaluable international networking.

A delegation of twelve Portuguese companies spanning various sectors travelled to Cork, seeking business partnerships and collaborations. The event included pre-arranged, speeddating style B2B meetings held over two consecutive days. The first day’s meetings took place at the vibrant co-working space, Republic of Work.

The second day took place at the welcoming environment of Culture CoWorking Hub.

The outcomes of this event were highly positive, as two Cork companies successfully established fruitful business partnerships with Portuguese counterparts. These connections not only helped these Cork companies gain key knowledge on accessing the Portuguese market, it also gave them the opening to allow for the onboarding of new international clients. The event provided an ideal platform to establish trust and foster collaboration between these diverse businesses.

For the last thirty years, the EU Single Market has removed barriers to doing business and has made it possible for businesses to expand beyond their borders. This event highlighted the

importance of the single market in nurturing and expanding international trade, offering companies the chance to seize growth opportunities.

The success of this B2B matchmaking event serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the EEN at Cork Chamber. If you are an SME looking to expand into international markets, please contact Grace Kelleher, EEN Advisor at grace@ corkchamber.ie, and start your journey today.

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Recent Appointments

AIB Bank Cork recently appointed Noreen Walsh as the Head of AIB Cork. She is responsible for leading a team of over 250 staff across 26 branches throughout Cork City and County. A graduate of University of Limerick, Noreen is a customer focused senior Financial and Banking services expert, with over 24 years experience gained from working in a variety of roles within AIB.

ANTHONY SAVAGE Ward Personnel

Leading construction recruitment firm, Ward Personnel has announced Anthony Savage as Business Development Manager. He will manage the Sales & Account Management team and oversee business development within the company across all regions. He has over 30 years experience across a wide range of industries and will bring this experience into his new role.

DR CELINE MCINERNEY Director, Port of Cork

The Port of Cork Company has appointed of Dr Celine McInerney to its Board of Directors. Celine spent her early career as an investment banker specialising in Mergers and Acquisitions in London and New York with Deutsche Bank and Lehman Brothers. On returning to Ireland in the early 2000s, her focus moved to renewable energy finance with SWS Energy and then Merrion Capital where she was a founding partner of the Cork office.

NOREEN WALSH AIB

New Members Corner

We welcome the following new members

Building Contractors/Providers

Clancy Project Management Limited Clancy Construction is one of Ireland’s leading main building contractors operating in both the public and private sectors.

W: www.clancy.ie

Business Continuity Services

Change Grow Succeed

Change Grow Succeed is a training & coaching consultancy practice. We enable our clients to perform and get results in the areas of their life that they value.

W: www.changegrowsucceed.com

Charities

EIL Intercultural Learning

An Irish non-profit organisation that provides intercultural learning opportunities to interested people from all ages and backgrounds.

W: www.eilireland.org

Cork Nature Network

Cork Nature Network is a registered charity working to encourage the protection of our natural environment through education, awareness raising and collaborative partnerships.

W: www.corknaturenetwork.ie

Consulting Engineers/Quantity Surveyors

ORS

ORS is a world-class multidisciplinary building consultancy, providing nine core areas of civil and structural engineering.

W: www.ors.ie

Contracting Cleaning/Supplies

Effective Cleaning Services

Domestic and commercial cleaning company.

W: www.effectivecleaningservices.ie

Education/Training/Languages

AbilityWise

Ability Wise deliver disability awareness training and consultancy. Our training courses are recognised by the government who provide businesses with 90% grant to undertake training.

W: www.abilitywise.ie

Retirement Planning Council of Ireland Retiring? Are you ready? We are the go to people for holistic retirement planning. We are a charity. We do not sell financial product. But we can guide you through this important transition.

W: www.rpc.ie

Electronics

Microchip Technology Ireland

Microchip Technology Incorporated is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions.

W: www.microchip.com

Engineering

Avonmore Electrical Co. Ltd

Electro-Mechanical Services company, multi-disciplined in design, project management, supply, repair and installation of all types of motors, pumps, gearboxes, fans, etc. for Industry.

W: www.avonmore-electrical.com

Endress+Hauser Ireland

Endress+Hauser is a global leader in measurement instrumentation, services and solutions for industrial process engineering.

W: www.ie.endress.com

H&MV Engineering Ltd

H&MV Engineering is a leading global provider of specialist design, engineering and construction services.

W: www.hmveng.ie

Event Management

Menosum Ltd

Menopause education and support for the B2C and B2B sectors.

W: www.nationalmenopausesummit.com

Financial Services/Pensions/ Investment

OFX Global Payments

A win for OFX is when the right FX policy becomes a competitive tool in the marketplace for our client and we can help you to enhance your profit margins.

W: www.ofx.com

Fitness Padel Tennis Ireland Ltd

Inclusive Indoor Padel Tennis Facility.

W: www.padeltennisireland.ie

Food/Drink

Ballyvolane House Spirits Company Ltd

Ballyvolane House Spirits is a small batch gin distillery located at Ballyvolane House, Castlelyons, Co. Cork. Established in 2015 by Justin Green and Antony Jackson.

W: www.ballyvolanespirits.ie

Roots Kitchen

Roots Kitchen provides our corporate clients with locally sourced, high-end restaurant solutions & catering services to satisfy your teams taste buds!

W: www.rootskitchen.ie

Second Street Bakeshop

Second Street Bakeshop is a new confectionery company taking simple, all-natural ingredients and turning them into sensational award-winning sweet treats.

W: www.secondstreetbakeshop.com

Fuel/Energy

GD Plus HVO

Provider of sustainable certified zero fossil HVO diesel replacement fuel. 54m litre fuel terminal in Ringaskiddy. Largest supplier of certified HVO in Ireland and UK, product brand name is GD+ HVO.

W: www.gbf.ltd

Ryze Hydrogen Ltd

Ryze Ireland provides integrated energy solutions to decarbonise transport and industry.

W: www.ryzehydrogen.com

Health & Safety

CRAOI

CRAOI is a digital workplace wellbeing solution designed by combining data and technology to provide personalised wellbeing support to companies and their employees.

W: www.craoi.com

Healthcare Provider

Apex Nutrition

Leading online nutritionist focusing on sustainable weight loss, performance and clincial nutrition.

W: www.apexnutrition.ie

The Mind Mechanic

The Mind Mechanic offers innovative and creative psychotherapy solutions designed to support you and your Mental Health. From bespoke therapy to corporate wellness, we will have what you need!

W: www.themindmechanic.ie

Importer/Exporter

Global Forwarding Ireland

Global Forwarding is a full-service logistics company. We offer access to a global network with instant, online pricing and a highly experienced team of logistics professionals.

W: www.globalf.com

IT Services

ExtendedMedia

ExtendedMedia is a leading web design and software development company in Cork. Our expert team provides customised IT services, including web design, marketing, video ads, and more.

W: www.extended.ie

VBOX ltd

VBOX is an award-winning innovative tech solution which provides a portable secure network solution simplifying systems integration testing in the manufacturing industry.

W: www.vbox.ie

Manufacturers

MTD Precision Engineering

MTD is a leading precision engineering company in Ireland. Specialising in the custom design and manufacture of equipment for the biopharmaceutical and medical device industries.

W: www.tooling.ie

Office Supplies/Equipment/Furniture

Fervor and Hue Ltd

Fervor + Hue is a home interior brand, with a passion dedicated to helping our customers find the colours they love and make those colours part of their every day.

W: www.fervorandhue.com

Online Shopping/Retail Stolen Stitches Ltd

Stolen Stitches is the one-stop-shop for adventurous knitters. Our vibrant global knitting community, includes immersive clubs and knit-alongs, with luxury yarns, patterns and video workshops.

W: www.stolenstitches.com

Property Developers

Mavro Ltd.

Property Developers based in Cork and primarily focused on delivering social housing to local authority.

W: www.mavro.ie

Renewable Energy MyGug Ltd

MyGug Ltd is a West Cork based company with a new innovative product that turns food waste into energy for food businesses schools and universities.

W: www.mygug.eu

Restaurant/Bar/Catering

Clancys Group

Clancy’s Group is located at the heart of Cork city, we offer a wide range of delicious food and cocktails with live music each night!

W: www.clancyscork.ie

Retail Doctrine Skincare

Doctrine creates bespoke skincare products for home use, retailing online and in retail.

W: www.doctrineskincare.com

Foli Homewares Ltd

Foli Homewares is your one-stop shop for ethically sourced gifts and houseplants at the Marina Market Cork.

W: www.foli.store

Zirkulu Limited

Zirkulu is a premium outdoor apparel brand built on the principles of the circular economy.

W: www.zirkulu.com

Services

AM Sports Consultancy

Sports Consultancy whose focus is based on growing your brand through the passion of sport!

W: www.amsc.se

Cork Civic Life

Cork Civic Life supports the 3,000 voluntary, social, civic, charitable and not for profit organisations in Cork city and county.

W: www.corkciviclife.ie

Saol

With our welcoming and supportive online community and expert coaches Saol delivers live classes, events, programmes and challenges to help transform your lifestyle and feel more confident.

W: www.saol-app.com

Social Enterprises

The WellSchools Network

The WellSchools Network, a spinout of University College Cork, develops and researches programs to support student well-being and behavior for learning.

W: www.wsn.ie

Software/Software Services Clinks

Ireland’s first App-based on-demand drinks delivery service providing consumers with a wide range of premium products and bringing retailers online.

W: www.clinks.ie

Travella Limited

Our platform harnesses the power of customer behaviour analytics for clients in the tourism attraction and event market to drive revenue growth.

W: www.travella.solutions

Solicitors/Legal Services

Abbey Blue Legal (Cork) Ltd

Immigration consulting and applications: employment permits, all types of visas, citizenship applications.

W: www.abbeybluelegal.ie

Mason Hayes & Curran LLP

Award-winning law firm employing over 580 staff including 119 Partners with offices in Dublin, New York, San Francisco and London.

W: www.mhc.ie

Transport Exec Cars

Chauffeur service for Large Companies and SMEs.

W: www.execcars.ie sponsored by

Two in a row for Wilson Architecture

Cork headquartered Wilson Architecture is pleased to announce that, for the second year running, it has been named as the only Irish winner at the prestigious International Architecture Awards. Hosted by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, the Awards recognise 130 of the best-designed buildings and landscapes from around the world. The leading architecture firm, which has offices in Cork, Dublin and China, was recognised in the “Hotels” category for its work on The Dean Hotel, Cork. Situated in the North Docklands area of Cork City, The Dean Hotel forms part of a mixed-use development designed by Wilson Architecture.

Alpha Wealth acquires Barrett Financial

Alpha Wealth, a leading impartial financial advisory firm, is thrilled to announce the successful completion of the acquisition of Greg Barrett Financial Services. This significant milestone marks another step forward in Alpha Wealth’s continued growth and commitment to delivering exceptional financial services to clients throughout Ireland. “We are delighted to welcome Greg Barrett Financial Services into the Alpha Wealth family,” said Nick Charalambous, Managing Director at Alpha Wealth. “This acquisition further reinforces our commitment to delivering unparalleled impartial pension, savings, and protection advice to our expanding client base.”

Christmas market season starts at Ballymaloe

The festive season will officially kick off at Ballymaloe when the annual Craft Fair makes its return over the weekends of November 17th and 24th, with both weekends promising a wealth of unique shopping experiences, delightful culinary experiences and a vibrant Christmas market ambience. The Ballymaloe Craft Fair’s mission is to provide a platform for local artisans to showcase and sell their creations, champion Irish-made products, promote sustainability, and offer a safe and enjoyable family-friendly event for all attendees. Over 150 exhibitors each weekend will be showcasing their talents. There will be free all day parking and a shuttle bus running daily from Midleton train station, via Cloyne to Ballymaloe and then onto Ballycotton and back again.

Pictured Nick Charalambous (on right) and team following the announcement

Sarah Ward Hendry, Ruxx; Nickie Cohalan, Juniper Lane; Fionn McCarthy, Zirkulu; Tara Copplestone, Foxglove Cocktails; Victoria Tammadge, Inky Frog and Rory Copplestone, Foxglove Cocktails who along with 150 other exhibitors will be at the Ballymaloe Craft Fair.

Arachas is now Ireland's Largest Nationwide Insurance Broker

Arachas is the Irish for insurance. Since its founding in Cork by Donal Cronin in 2004, Arachas has been bringing quality insurance brokers together, to create an insurance powerhouse, now Ireland’s largest broker Recent examples would include fine family run insurance brokerages like O’Malley Griffin in Limerick, Glennon in Dublin, and Apex Insurance, here in Cork.

Providing expert advice and service to our domestic and commercial customers is at the heart of what we do at Arachas We also provide complex insurance requirements via innovative sector specific schemes and insurance solutions tailored to key industries in the Irish economy, like the hospitality, marine and construction sectors, where Arachas plays a leading role. Companies in Cork like ESI Technologies, Cork Metal Group, Barry & Fitzwilliam, East Cork Crane Hire, and Irish Bacon Slicers put their trust in Arachas to take care of their insurance Arachas is also working with more solicitors for their Professional Indemnity Insurance, than any other provider in the country today.

We are part of The Ardonagh Group, the UK’s largest independent insurance distribution platform and a top 20 broker globally. Our global Data Analytics Lab, based in Mullingar is using leading edge technology, including Big Data, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, to deliver analytics and data insights for our business, our customers and insurance partners

With 18 offices throughout the country, Arachas has increased its footprint geographically to be present where our customers are transacting business. Here in Cork, we are growing our team of experts in Little Island to cover a broader range of insurance products to support Cork’s thriving business community If you are interested in finding out more, we'd love to meet you at our stand at the Job Expo being held at UCC, on November 18th

Our ethos of giving back to our local communities is also central to who we are, and this takes the form of sponsorships in sport and the arts and fundraising for charities, including Cancer Fund for Children and locally in Cork, ARC Cancer Support House and Fort2Fort Cycle for the Mercy Hospital Foundation.

As Chamber members, if you are a sole trader or leading a big company or providing a professional service, you want to focus on your core business At Arachas, we can help to manage your insurance, however complex, in the most efficient way possible

We would love the opportunity to understand more about your business and help you secure the best insurance options, call us on 021 427 0505

Alan Miller, Regional Director Arachas, South Region

Carbery Group win 2023 Exporter of the Year

Business to Arts Award for BioMarin

The Business to Arts Awards 2023, now in its 31st year, was held at a gala ceremony in the National Concert Hall, hosted by journalist and broadcaster Dearbhail McDonald, with guest of honour Catherine Martin TD, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. A total of 12 awards, including nine main categories and three bursaries worth €25,000 were presented to the projects by leaders in the business community. Winning partnerships at the awards comprised a variety of business sectors and art forms. Industries represented included construction, consulting, public services and pharmaceuticals - a strong indication of the relevance of the arts to all business sectors in Ireland. The myriad of art forms employed, spanning film, architecture, music, and both visual and digital art, highlighted the high standard of creativity and innovation of the winning projects. BioMarin and visual artist and project designer Rachel Doolin were awarded Best Use of Creativity in the Workplace supported by ESB for ‘The Giving Tree’. BioMarin commissioned Rachel to create a sculpture which would symbolise the Cork-based pharmaceutical company’s vision to create a better world. The result was The Giving Tree, a sculpture made up of 1,200 bronze discs, with a native tree planted across Ireland for each one - including at schools and retirement homes - underpinning the company’s sustainability strategy.

Carbery Group was announced overall 2023 Exporter of the Year at the 2023 Export Industry Awards. They also won the Sustainable Trade Exporter of the Year award on the evening.

Jim Lennertz, Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations in Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, BioMarin; Liz O’Mahony, Senior Director, People, Ireland, BioMarin; Conor Delaney, Site Lead and Vice President of Shanbally Manufacturing Operations, BioMarin; Rachel Doolin, Visual Artist; and Regina Colloca, Senior Site Coordinator, BioMarin.

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