IoD Members' Update
May 2021

We are delighted that our online workshops and networking events continue to to be in high demand and we will be announcing more in due course, so book early to avoid disappointment.
 
The next available cohort for the Chartered Director Programme is Cohort 73, which will begin in September 2021. The panel below includes links where you can learn more about this highly sought after and prestigious Programme and how you can submit an expression of interest to book your place.

In our latest quarterly Director Sentiment Monitor research, for Q1 2021, a clear majority (65%) of our members who responded to the survey thinks that the Government should proceed with the introduction of the Central Bank (Amendment) Bill 2019, while 56% are personally in favour of the concept of directors’ individual accountability. The new IoD research also has findings in relation to Directors & Officers (D&O) Indemnity Insurance, with 87% of our members viewing it as ‘an essential’.

The research also reveals that IoD members see the final quarter of the year as the most likely period when the economy can fully reopen and a majority of their staff can return to the company workplace, although the future of work and the workplace may be quite different to pre-COVID times.
 
In the interim, a clear majority of our survey respondents is of the belief that employers should continue to follow the Government’s advice with regard to working from home for all non-essential staff.

Patience and compliance will serve everyone best over the coming weeks and months.
 
Stay safe and well.
Director Factsheet: Sustainability for Corporates: Letting the Green Light Shine
McCann FitzGerald Factsheet
May 2021


Our latest Director Factsheet, from McCann FitzGerald, looks at the European Commission's recent adoption of a proposal for a Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (the “CSRD”), with the aim of amending the existing reporting requirements under the Non-Financial Reporting Directive 2014/95 (the “NFRD”).

The proposal is the latest in a series of measures following on from the European Commission’s Action Plan: Financing Sustainable Growth, (the “Green Plan”) and is designed to foster corporate transparency on sustainability issues and more sustainable corporate governance. The European Commission is shortly expected to publish a further proposal for a directive on sustainable corporate governance.

Our sincere thanks to McCann FitzGerald for their ongoing assistance in producing the IoD Factsheets.

Please note: To read this members’ only content, you must be logged into the members' area of our website.  For more Director Factsheets, please visit our website.
IoD Webinar: The Cloud Imperative – Why Cloud is the Most Value Creating and Disruptive Technology of Our Time
As part of our ongoing work to share exclusive content and insights with members, we are delighted to invite you to join our upcoming webinar, 'The Cloud Imperative – Why Cloud is the Most Value Creating and Disruptive Technology of Our Time' with Donal Óg McCarthy, Managing Director, Cloud First Leader, Accenture.

Date: Thursday, 6th May 2021
Time: 09:30 - 10:30
Cost: Free of charge. IoD members only.
Registration: Closes at 4.00pm on Wednesday, 5th May 2021

IoD Ireland Briefings Series sponsored by Accenture. For more information about this webinar, please visit our website. 

Please note, there will be a live Q&A facility for this webinar.
The IoD Blog: Why Ireland is Standing Ever Taller as a Funds Domicile of Choice
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In this blog, Joanne McEnteggart, Managing Director, IQ-EQ Ireland, observes that, ‘Ireland has grown to become the second biggest fund centre in Europe and third largest in the world’. She adds: ‘With Brexit having finally taken effect on 1 January 2021, we’ve been seeing a marked increase in the number of fund managers and other businesses (that had previously used the UK as their European base) coming to Ireland for EU access.’
 
Outlining a number of key factors which make Ireland an attractive location, Joanne McEnteggart suggests, ‘it should be no surprise to see Ireland standing increasingly tall in the global funds space'.

Previous blogs are available on our website. If you are interested in contributing to our blog or for further information, please contact Paul O'Mahony at [email protected] or call 01 411 0010. 
IoD Webcast: FDI in Ireland - A New Strategy and Economic Outlook
In this IoD Briefing Webinar recorded on Thursday, 22nd April, Martin Shanahan, CEO, IDA Ireland, presented his webinar titled, 'FDI in Ireland - A New Strategy and Economic Outlook'.

In this exclusive webinar, Martin discussed the economic impact of COVID-19 on Ireland’s FDI, the IDA's strategies for supporting FDI in Ireland, the IDA's future plans for investment delivery for FDI in Ireland and the potential for future employment growth in Ireland due to FDI.

This webinar is part of our Briefing Series, and is sponsored by Accenture.

Please note: To view this members’ only content, you must be logged into the members' area of our website.  For more webcasts, please visit our website.
IoD Director Sentiment Monitor Q1 2021
The IoD Ireland Director Sentiment Monitor (DSM) tracks our members’ sentiments across a range of issues on a quarterly basis.

The latest research covering the period Q1 2021 has just been published, which you may have read or heard about on media outlets such as RTE, Newstalk, the Irish Independent, the Irish Examiner, and more. Thank you to all who were able to take the time to complete the survey.
 
This latest survey reveals our members' views on a number of key areas and issues. These include: D&O Indemnity Insurance; accountability; Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) issues; business confidence; financial performance; Brexit; international trade; and the national COVID-19 vaccination programme.
Meet a Member
Carol Ann Casey CDir is a Chartered Director and Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. She delivers independent authority, oversight and strategy on the management of highly contentious people issues and on regulatory disputes, governance and compliance. 

Carol Ann holds the statutory office as the Independent Adjudicator of the Law Society and is the Independent Customer Complaints Reviewer for the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. She is an INED of the Blarney Woollen Mills Group and former chairperson of the Central Remedial Clinic (CRC). The CRC won Charities Institute Ireland’s Board of the Year in 2019. She was shortlisted for Leader of the Year in Charities Institute Ireland’s Charity Excellence Awards, 2020.

What do you particularly value from your IoD membership?
The professionalism, governance and values the IoD bestows on its members; content of events for directors’ CPD; and the social aspect of networking that many of us miss in our current times! I find IoD Ireland’s website very informative, especially its Member Resources and Guidance tab, and being able to watch missed events. In essence, the IoD aligns to my values in the service I deliver so I get a lot from my membership of the body.

What is the one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?
Integrity – do the right thing; do things right. It is important to watch the horizon whilst also overseeing the bottom line. I put an acronym PASS on my IoD Chartered Director studies – oversee Policies, Accountability, Supervision of all resources and Strategy – and nearly 10 years on I still abide by these.
A Unique Qualification for Directors
and Strategic Business Leaders
The IoD’s Chartered Director Programme offers a unique and prestigious qualification for directors and strategic business leaders in Ireland. Combining learning and professional experience, the Chartered Director Programme will equip you with the all-round skills, knowledge and understanding essential to effectively and successfully lead your organisation. Join over 1,200 senior business leaders who have already undertaken this prestigious programme.
 
The Chartered Director Programme is made up of three phases:

  • Phase 1: Certificate in Company Direction (Four classroom-based modules + exam)
  • Phase 2: Diploma in Company Direction (One classroom-based module + exam)
  • Phase 3: Becoming a Chartered Director (Professional review process)
 
The Programme is delivered through eleven *classroom-based learning days in cohorts of 20 participants, leading to a Certificate and Diploma in Company Direction. Successful participants may go forward for admission to become a Chartered Director (CDir), subject to eligibility criteria. 

The next available cohort for the Chartered Director Programme is Cohort 73 which will begin in September 2021.

To book your place on this prestigious programme, please submit an expression of interest form. For more information, please contact the training department on 01-411 0010 or email [email protected].

*Subject to Government health guidelines and other public health requirements, this programme will be delivered in a classroom setting. However, online/virtual delivery will be considered where appropriate or necessary.
Webcast: Directors and Officers Liability Insurance: Why Is It Important?
In this IoD partnership webinar with Glennon Insurance, which took place on Tuesday, 20th April 2021, Stephen Byrne, Director, Glennon Insurance, presented his webinar titled, 'Directors and Officers Liability Insurance: Why Is It Important?'

In the webinar, Stephen gave a short introduction to the main elements of what Directors and Officers (D&O) Liability Insurance is, including how it works, and an understanding of what the insurance should cover. He also gave an overview of how this insurance should apply to both executive and non-executive directors, the legal requirements and risks that directors face, and how and why D&O Liability Insurance is something all directors should consider.

Please note: To view this members’ only content, you must be logged into the members' area of our website.  For more webcasts, please visit our website.
The IoD's Boardroom Centre
The IoD’s Boardroom Centre is the leading independent source of non-executive directors and chairpersons in Ireland.

The Boardroom Centre provides two services: working with companies to recruit non-executives to their boards, and supporting IoD members on their non-executive journey.

  • For Companies: The Boardroom Centre is a dedicated and independent service which assists client companies to source and appoint independent non-executive directors and chairpersons to their boards. Our panel of available candidates comprises some of the most experienced senior business leaders in Ireland, all of whom are members of the Institute of Directors in Ireland. We work with a company from developing the criteria for their ideal candidate through to the appointment process and remuneration guidelines.
  • For Directors: The Boardroom Centre provides advice to IoD members on preparing themselves for the role of non-executive director. Members can also apply to join the Boardroom Centre’s confidential panel of available non-executive directors.

If you would like to know more about what the Boardroom Centre can do for you and/or your organisation, please visit our website or contact Thora Mackey directly.
How to Network Successfully in a Virtual World: Upcoming Event and Past Presentations
The next in our popular series, titled 'How to Network Successfully in a Virtual World' and hosted by Jean Evans, Founder, NetworkMe will be held on Wednesday, 12th May. There are limited places available. To book your spot, visit our website events page.

If you attended one of the previous online networking online events and would like to revisit Jean’s presentations, or if you were unable to attend, the three most recent presentations are available via the IoD website. Each presentation covers some different topics and strategies on how to successfully network. View the presentations below:

  • In the April session, Jean explored LinkedIn content management, and how to use this to network strategically. Jean also provided tips and strategies to ensure successful online networking.
  • In the March session, Jean outlined key tips for: LinkedIn, including your personal brand and profile; networking online; virtual networking etiquette; maximising online networking opportunities; and nurturing your network.
  • In the February session, Jean outlined key tips for: networking online; virtual networking etiquette; maximising online networking opportunities; and nurturing your network.

Please note: To view this members’ only content, you must be logged into the members' area of our website.  For more event presentations, please visit our website.
Webcast: The Green Shoots of Sustainability
This webinar was recorded on Tuesday, 23rd March, and has been made available to IoD Ireland members courtesy of McCann FitzGerald.

This presentation looked at the new and proposed legislative measures being adopted 'to green' the EU’s economy and explained how these are set to become a game changer for all companies.

The session was presented by Imelda Higgins, Senior Associate, McCann FitzGerald, and Martin O'Neill, Senior Associate, McCann FitzGerald.

Please note: To view this members’ only content, you must be logged into the members' area of our website.  For more webcasts, please visit our website.
On the Bright Side…
Positive News in Business
While there may be many negative business stories in the news recently, there are also plenty of positive ones. Here are just a few stories we have selected:

Policy and Announcements Hub
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive 
On 21st April 2021, the European Commission adopted 'an ambitious and comprehensive package of measures to help improve the flow of money towards sustainable activities across the European Union'. The Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital & Company Regulation will host a webinar on the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive proposal for stakeholders on 12th May from 11am -12pm. The webinar will include presentations by the EU Commission on the proposal and Business in the Community Ireland.

Conference on the Future of Europe
The Conference on the Future of Europe will officially start on 9th May. The Conference’s multilingual digital platform is now live. This is the place where every European citizen can share their thoughts on Europe, as well as find Conference-related events and even organise their own events. Your organisation is invited to get involved. Topics range from climate change and health to digital issues and European democracy, as well as education, culture, social justice and the economy. All of the contributions feed into the European Citizens' panels and Conference Plenaries that will take place later in the year.

Ireland’s Corporation Tax Rate: New Podcast Series from Jim Power and Chris Johns
Economist Jim Power and columnist Chris Johns have launched a new podcast series titled, 'The Other Hand'. In one of their podcasts, they interview fellow economist, Seamus Coffey, on Ireland's corporation tax history, with some interesting analysis on what this means for businesses in Ireland. This podcast can be found on their website. You can also sign-up for the newsletter and receive more information.

Implementation of the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR)
A significant regulatory change took place in the European Union (EU) from 10th March 2021, with the implementation of the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). It is part of the European Commission's roadmap for the implementation of the EU’s sustainable finance regulatory framework.

Extension to €2bn Credit Guarantee Scheme
The Government has announced that the €2bn Credit Guarantee Scheme will be extended and will remain open for applications until the end of the year. The Credit Guarantee Scheme is the biggest ever state-backed loan guarantee in Ireland. The Scheme offers an 80% Government guarantee to participating lenders to provide Irish businesses, including those in the farming and fishing sectors, with access to low interest loans as they respond to the impacts of COVID-19.

Our Rural Future: Government’s Blueprint to Transform Rural Ireland
On 29th March 2021, the Government published its Rural Development Policy 2021-2025, entitled 'Our Rural Future', which sets out its ambition on broadband rollout, remote working and other key factors.
IoD and Members in the News
Newstalk Breakfast: Maura Quinn (IoD) interview (audio clip time-expired).
Irish Examiner: Support for Accountability (print edition).
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Business & Finance: Appointments (Emma Burrows, Maurice Carr).
Irish Examiner: Vaccine Rollout Key (print edition).
ShelfLife.ie: Appointment to the Board of Ornua (Anne O’Leary).
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Business & Finance: Appointments (Aine Collins).
Irish Building magazine: PM Group Appointments (Derek Mowlds).
Selected radio: 4FM/Clare FM/East Coast Radio/ LMFM/MidWest Radio/Northern Sound/Q102/Radio Nova/Sunshine FM/Shannonside Radio: IoD Director Sentiment Monitor survey findings on economy reopening.
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Daily Mail: Back in Time for the Office party? (print edition).
The Avondhu: End of Year Before Economy Fully Reopens (print edition).
TheJournal.ie: Quotes of the Week (Maura Quinn, IoD).
KFM Radio: Maura Quinn(IoD) interview (audio clip time-expired).
In Memoriam
The Institute of Directors in Ireland would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of IoD member, James Kavanagh, who passed away recently.

May he rest in peace.
IoD Member Benefit: Tailored D&O Liability Cover with Glennon Insurance 
Glennon Insurance has created a tailored insurance solution for individual directors in Ireland, available only to IoD Ireland members.

This exclusive insurance scheme covers executive and non-executive directors, and senior management against legal actions and their costs, and helps protect personal assets.

Glennon Insurance is delighted to offer IoD members a complimentary and confidential consultation regarding Directors and Officers' (D&O) insurance.

In addition, Glennon Insurance has negotiated exclusive car and home insurance schemes for our members and their spouses or partners.
COVID-19: Information and Resources
More Phased Easing of Public Health Restrictions
The Government has outlined new measures designed to ease some of the restrictions put in place to counter the prevalence of COVID-19 in the community. The National Vaccination Programme is continuing to make progress and "thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the Irish people, there has been a marked improvement in the status of the virus in the community."

The key dates for the easing of some restrictions are: 4th May, 10th May, 2nd June, and 7th June. 

The Government also states that "clear sectoral guidance and supports for business will be provided at each stage to ensure safe reopening. There will be no cliff edge in financial supports for businesses". It adds: "Any business currently availing of CRSS (COVID-19 Restrictions Support Scheme) and that can now reopen as restrictions are eased will be able to avail of double restart week payments for two weeks subject to the statutory maximum of €5,000 per week to support them in meeting the costs of reopening as they exit the scheme."
Get the Most Out of Your Membership
with the IoD Ireland Website
Have you reset your password and accessed the new members' area on the IoD Ireland website? If so, you will have already gained access to our exclusive member only content, such as webcasts, Director Factsheets, blogs and much more. 

If you have not yet created your new login details, please follow the below steps to get the most out of your IoD Ireland membership:

Step one: browse to this IoD Ireland website page and on the left hand side of the screen in the 'Returning Members' section please press the 'Password Reset' button. Please then enter your email address to reset your password.

Step two: you will receive a ‘Password Set Request’ email. Please click on the link in this email to create your password and login to access the exclusive members’ area of the IoD Ireland website. (If you do not receive this email, please check your spam/junk email.) 

If you have any queries or issues regarding the above, please contact the IoD Comms team.
Connect with the IoD
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