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Caroline Spillane CDir | Tuesday, 9th December 2025
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Dear Member
Thank you for your continued support throughout 2025. Your engagement and feedback have been invaluable in shaping our work.
In this edition, you will find key dates and learning opportunities to help plan your 2026 calendar. Our final ezine of the year also includes fresh governance insights on topics such as: EU plans to simplify digital rules on GDPR, guidance on applying for State board opportunities; insolvency preparedness, and key considerations for Directors of Regulated Financial Services Providers.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are excited to build further on our momentum. We will be introducing new initiatives and enhancing the support we provide to you as a valued member.
Thank you for being part of our community. We look forward to working with you in the year ahead.
Happy Christmas.
Caroline
Caroline Spillane CDir
Chief Executive Officer
Institute of Directors Ireland
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(Pictured L to R: Claire Lord, Corporate Partner and the Head of Corporate Governance at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP, Helen Nolan, President, IoD Ireland, and Caroline Spillane CDir, Chief Executive Officer, IoD Ireland.) | |
IoD Celebrates Growth and Connection at Annual Christmas Lunch
The Christmas Lunch once again proved to be a standout moment in the festive season for members. It offered exceptional opportunities for members to connect with peers, celebrate the year’s achievements, and enjoy a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Guests were treated to entertainment from comedian and presenter, Oliver Callan.
The Christmas Lunch was sponsored by Mason Hayes & Curran LLP.
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Membership Renewal Fee Update for 2026
To continue delivering the high standard of service, support, and advocacy you expect as a director and senior business leader, we will be introducing a modest adjustment to the membership renewal fee.
From 1 January 2026, the renewal fee will increase from €395 to €425. This change will take effect at your next renewal date in 2026 and will enable us to:
- Maintain and enhance the quality of our services
- Introduce new initiatives and benefits tailored to your needs
- Strengthen our advocacy on behalf of members
We appreciate your continued commitment and look forward to supporting you in the year ahead.
| | EXCLUSIVE UPCOMING EVENTS | | |
We have an exciting programme of events lined up for early 2026, offering opportunities for members to gain fresh insights, strengthen their governance expertise, and expand their professional network. From briefings on the governance of regulated entities, to leadership-focused sessions, practical membership webinars, and dedicated networking opportunities, there is something for every stage of your director journey.
You can explore the full schedule including dates, speakers, themes, and registration details on our website.
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Celebrating Our Members: A Year of Profiles
Over the past year, we have had the pleasure of showcasing a wide range of IoD Ireland members through our Member Profiles series. This collection highlights the depth and diversity of experience within our community - from senior executives and non-executive directors to founders, sector leaders, and emerging board talent across Ireland.
Each profile offers a window into the career journeys, board insights, and leadership perspectives that shape our network. Together, they reflect the strength, ambition, and expertise that define IoD membership. You can explore the full collection on the Member Profiles page on our website.
We look forward to continuing this series in 2026 and sharing more of the remarkable individuals who contribute to the IoD Ireland community.
| | DIRECTOR EXPERTISE AND INSIGHTS | MEMBER BENEFITS | | |
Proposed Updates to GDPR | Article
Expert insights from Adam Finlay, Partner, Head of Technology and Innovation Group, McCann FitzGerald LLP, on EU plans to simplify digital rules on GDPR.
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Advice on Applying for State Board Opportunities | Article
In this article, Michelle Noone, Head of Recruitment Talent Strategy, Publicjobs, provides advice and insight on how best to apply for a State Board role.
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Ian Britchfield on Building a Successful INED Career | Article
In this article Ian Britchfield, INED and IoD Ireland member, charts his career from chartered accountant to accomplished independent Chair and director.
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Prepare Against Insolvency | CEA Guidance
Read this Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA) Guidance note on early warning indicators that can signal that a company may be entering into financial difficulty.
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Advancing Balanced Business Leadership Across Irish Business | Article
In this article, Balance for Better Business Co-Chairs Carol Andrews and Bernard Byrne, share advice for leaders on advancing their gender balance journey.
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Governance and The Moral Market: An Education in Governance | Article
Entrepreneur, founder, investor, author, MBA, Chartered Director Patrick Ryan CDir reflects on his NED career to date, and the importance of good governance.
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Changing the Climate in the Boardroom | Article
In this article, Laura Magahy CDir reflects on how directors can integrate sustainability into strategic decision-making, & embed climate action in boardrooms.
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Being a Charity Trustee | Charities Regulator Guidance
This new guide outlines charity trustees’ duties, legal obligations, board evaluations, and committee establishment to ensure effective governance and regulatory compliance.
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Considerations for Directors of Regulated Financial Services Providers | Factsheet
Read this factsheet which outlines directors’ fiduciary and conduct duties under Irish law and the IAF Act. It also includes steps for compliance and accountability.
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Unlock Exclusive Insights | Board Director Remuneration & Governance Guide
Benchmark your position and stay competitive with the latest director remuneration intelligence. Read our new guide, exclusively available to IoD Ireland members.
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Welcome to new members who joined in recent weeks
Whether you’re here for inspiration, knowledge, or to belong to a valued network, we’re delighted to have you as part of our IoD Ireland community.
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Congratulations to our new Chartered Directors
Congratulations to those Chartered Directors who have passed their final professional review process, eligibility assessment and have become qualified CDirs.
| | RESEARCH POLICY AND ADVOCACY | SHAPING THE FUTURE OF GOVERNANCE | | |
Public Consultation | Proposed Changes to the Companies Act 2014 and Related Legislation
On Friday, 28th November, Minister Niamh Smyth TD ( Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment with special responsibility for Trade Promotion, AI and Digital Transformation) launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the Companies Act 2014 and related legislation.
These changes are in relation to access to the residential addresses of company directors and secretaries. The proposed changes seek to provide an appropriate balance between access to information and individual privacy considerations and follow consideration of the recommendations of a recent report from the Company Law Review Group.
The consultation closing date is 5:00pm, on Friday, 19th December 2025.
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IoD LEARNING AND EDUCATION: DESIGNED FOR DIRECTORS
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New Dates Available for IoD ILCU Director Development Programme
Enrolment is open for 2026. This bespoke programme which has been exclusively designed for Credit Union Directors committee members.
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Are You Ready for 2026 | Plan Your Director Skillset
From foundational insights to advanced boardroom expertise, our workshops are designed to support every stage of your leadership journey.
| | CREATIVE BOARDROOM: COLLABORATE4CLIMATE AND SEAI COLLABORATION | | |
Chartered Director Wins Inaugural 'Warming Up The Boardroom' Award at SEAI Energy Awards 2025
Congratulations to Maura Moore CDir, IoD Ireland Member, and Deputy Chairperson, Governing Authority, NUI Maynooth University, on winning the inaugural 'Warming up the Boardroom' award at the 2025 SEAI Energy Awards.
The SEAI Energy Awards celebrate excellence in pursuit of more affordable and secure energy in a prosperous and resilient economy, particularly those individuals and organisations that demonstrate excellence in the drive for reduced fossil fuel usage, reduced emissions, reduced costs, and a more resilient economy.
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Airport Lounges Update
Dublin Airport: Please note we have been advised that the T1 Lounge is closed for refurbishment. It is expected to be closed for 5 months and will re-open in Spring 2026. Please view our Member Benefits page for further information on other airport lounges and terminal updates.
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