Caroline Spillane CDir | Wednesday, 4th June 2025

Dear Anne,

Welcome to the latest edition of the IoD Ireland Members Update, which offers business leaders key content and updates for today’s fast-paced business landscape.

I’m delighted to welcome Helen Nolan as the new President of IoD Ireland. We look forward to her leadership and vision over the next two years. I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to John Reynolds CDir, whose dedication and guidance as President have been greatly appreciated.

We’re thrilled to announce that the inaugural recipient of the Gary Kennedy Chartered Director Programme Bursary is Mary Keogh. The Bursary was created to honour Gary’s legacy by supporting inclusivity and identifying high-potential individuals from under-represented backgrounds. Mary Keogh is a deserving recipient of the bursary, and you can read more about her achievement below.

In this edition, you’ll also find:

• Highlights of upcoming events you won’t want to miss
• Insightful articles on the future of governance, social impact in business, and leadership journeys from distinguished members
• Your exclusive access to member-only resources and benefits

As always, we encourage you to make the most of your membership and stay connected.

If you need any assistance, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email. We’re here to help.



Best wishes,

Caroline Spillane CDir

Chief Executive Officer

Institute of Directors Ireland 

FEATURED ARTICLE

Helen Nolan Appointed as New IoD Ireland President

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Helen Nolan as the new President of the Institute of Directors (IoD) Ireland, confirmed at our recent Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Helen brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role, with an impressive career spanning executive and non-executive positions across the financial services and corporate sectors. She currently serves as Chair of Aviva Life & Pensions and holds non-executive directorships with the US-listed fresh produce company Dole plc and Companjon Insurance DAC, where she also chairs the Audit Committee.

Helen’s deep understanding of corporate governance, strategic oversight, and boardroom leadership will be invaluable as she guides IoD Ireland in our ongoing mission to support and represent directors and business leaders nationwide.



Please join us in congratulating Helen on her appointment as President of IoD Ireland.



(Photo caption: Pictured (L to R): Caroline Spillane CDir, CEO, IoD Ireland; John Reynolds CDir, Council Member, IoD Ireland; and Helen Nolan, President, IoD Ireland. Photographer; Peter Houlihan, Coalesce.)

Mary Keogh Announced as the Gary Kennedy Chartered Director Programme Bursary Recipient

We are pleased to announce that Mary Keogh has been awarded the inaugural Gary Kennedy Chartered Director Programme Bursary. Established in memory of the late Gary Kennedy, this annual bursary aims to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the leadership and governance landscape by recognising individuals whose unique perspectives and lived experiences can enrich boardrooms and executive decision-making.

Mary Keogh is Chair of the International Disability and Development Consortium (IDDC), a global network of 35 civil society organisations committed to advancing inclusive international development and humanitarian action.

(Photo caption: Pictured (L to R): Helen Nolan, President, IoD Ireland; Mary Keogh, Gary Kennedy Chartered Director Programme Bursary recipient and John Reynolds CDir, Council Member, IoD Ireland. Photographer; Peter Houlihan, Coalesce.)

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS

Book your place on our upcoming webinar with Dr. Margaret Cullen, Governance Advisor, IoD Ireland. Margaret will explore the evolution of corporate governance as a paradigm and provides insights into the significant changes influencing boards and their organisations.

Eligible for 1 hour CPD.

Governance under Pressure: Governance, Diversity and Global Policy Trends

11 JUNE 2025 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Location: Matheson LLP, One Penrose Dock, Victorian Quarter, Cork

Cork event. This event will explore the critical issues directors need to navigate in today’s complex business environment. Our panel of experts will provide guidance on managing regulatory risk, stakeholder expectations and international policy shifts. This event is in partnership with Matheson LLP.

Eligible for 1 hour of CPD.

Shaping Culture and Managing Risk

19 JUNE 2025 | 9:30AM-10:30AM

Location: Online

Our upcoming webinar will explore how workforce engagement shapes governance, culture, and behavioural risk. Hear from expert speakers sharing strategies and real-world examples for long-term organisational success.

Eligible for 1 hour of CPD.

In-Conversation with Commissioner Michael McGrath

26 JUNE 2025 | 12:30PM-2:30PM

Location: InterContinental Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

Limited places remaining. In this exclusive member event, Commissioner McGrath will outline the aims and ambitions of his Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection portfolio, as well as addressing the EU competitiveness compass, and the current geopolitical climate.

Eligible for 1 hour of CPD.

Save the Date | IoD Ireland Summer Networking Reception

23 JULY 2025 | 5:30PM -7:30PM

Location: Terrace, Conrad Hotel, Dublin 2

Save the date for the IoD Ireland Summer Networking Reception. This event promises a vibrant atmosphere, engaging conversations, and the opportunity to reconnect with fellow directors and peers across a wide range of industries. Stay tuned for more details. All members will be notified when event booking is open.

Eligible for 1 hour of CPD.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet Our Member: Lorraine Wrafter CDir, INED and Chair of Remuneration & Nominations, Ignitis Group

In this member profile, Lorraine Wrafter CDir discusses how effective leadership hinges on resilience, openness to feedback, and the ability to drive cultural change swiftly through values-led actions. She also emphasises the importance of strong governance, diverse networks, and continuous learning equip leaders to navigate complexity and lead with impact.

Her advice for aspiring directors? Do the Chartered Director Programme.  

BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER

Are you making the most of your IoD Ireland membership? As a member, you have access to a wide range of resources and supports designed to empower you in your role as a director and business leader. Below are just a few of the key benefits available. To explore the full range, visit our membership benefits website page.

Legal Guide - Restructuring and Insolvency 2025

This Director Factsheet covers common issues in restructuring and insolvency, restructuring options, insolvency procedures, tax, employees and cross-border issues.

Thought Leadership Article | Social Impact Initiatives

Read this article with Alan Tyrrell CD, Senior Managing Director, Teneo Ireland, on social impact initiatives, and the importance of the ‘how’ business is done.  

Thought Leadership Article | Avoiding Governance Pitfalls

Read this article from Dr Margaret Cullen, Governance Advisor, IoD Ireland, on director’s duties and concept of the invisible hand. 

Webcast Audit & Risk: Essential Board & Committee Insights

Watch this webinar and advance your understanding of the role and function of the Audit & Risk Committee.  

Complimentary Access |Airport Lounges in Dublin & Europe

Enjoy complimentary access to airport lounges in Dublin, Cork, Shannon. As well as 16 executive airport lounges in the UK and Europe.

Access |Business Lounges & co-Working Areas in London

Access facilities at 116 Pall Mall in London. From quiet business lounges and co-working areas to private meeting rooms and private workspaces.

IoD LEARNING AND EDUCATION: DESIGNED FOR DIRECTORS

From global brands to boardrooms: A journey of purpose, progress and governance

Thought Leadership Article



In this article recently published in the Irish Times, Niamh Byrne CDir, a seasoned Non-Executive Director, Chartered Director and global marketing leader, discusses her career journey.

Drawing on her global career, she advocates for the power of emotional intelligence, diversity, and integrity in leadership roles. She highlights the value of IoD Ireland in advancing leadership skills and making a positive societal impact through board service. She also emphasizes the importance of rejecting mediocrity and striving for excellence in board governance.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW TEAM MEMBERS

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.

Congratulations to our newly Chartered Directors

Congratulations to those Chartered Directors who have passed their final professional review process, eligibility assessment and have become qualified CDirs.