Delivering organisational performance through people

Programme* | 15 May | 08:30 - 16:00

This year’s conference introduces a refreshed layout to enhance the delegate experience. The main programme will have a dedicated hall, and there is a separate expanded exhibition area.

The programme brings together an impressive mix of keynote speakers, expert voices, and experienced practitioners. We’ll explore the key challenges facing the profession today, with practical insights, tools you can apply, award-winning case studies, and opportunities for interactive learning and reflection.

#CIPDIrelandAC

*Programme subject to change

07:30

Registration

08:35

Welcome and shaping the future of the profession 

We set the stage by framing the current economic and employment landscape, and the value of people professionals in a transforming world

Colette Fitzpatrick, Conference MC. Radio & TV Broadcaster and Columnist.

Mary Connaughton, Director, CIPD Ireland. Launching CIPD’s HR Practices in Ireland survey 2025. 

08:55

Keynote: the new role of the people profession – advocacy and agility 

Professor Peter Cappelli, Keynote Speaker and Director of Wharton’s Center for Human Resources, will explore how the people profession can effectively measure and showcase its value as a strategic business function, highlighting tangible outcomes that demonstrate real business impact

09:35

The CEO view on the people agenda for the future 

A panel of well-known CEOs will discuss the evolving expectations of the people function, what is required for the future to directly contribute to long-term success

Gillian Chamberlain, UK & Ireland Managing Director, Capita Experience

Eamonn Crowley, CEO, PTSB

Bernard Gloster, CEO, HSE

Professor Gina Quin, President, National College of Ireland (Chair)

10:20

Break and exhibition 

10:45

Fake worlds, stupidity and real people  

An exploration of how AI is reshaping the people profession and trust at work.

Menno Van Doorn, Bestselling author and Director of Sogeti’s Research Institute for the Analysis of New Technology

 

The human side of AI – emotion, adoption and opportunity (expert led workshop)

Marie Toft, Gen AI Founder, Innovator and Change Management Consultant

12:45

Lunch and Exhibition

13:50

CIPD Ireland HR Award winning case studies  

DigitalWell case study on establishing HR as a dynamic system, winner of the 2025 HR success in SMEs category

Denise Hayes, Chief People Officer  

Rosie Leonard, People Generalist 

An Post showcasing delivering transformation and a learning culture; 2025 award winners in two categories: strategic transformation and change and learning and development (large)

Eleanor Nash, Chief People Officer 

Gareth McLaughlin, Learning & Talent Development Manager 

Alison Hodgson, Market Director, CIPD Ireland (Chair) 

14:30

The global perspective: moving the dial on HR’s impact

An inspiring panel of international HR leaders from Singapore, USA, UK and Ireland will explore their unique context and challenges, and how to deliver impact

Low Peck Kem, CHRO, Prime Minister’s Office, Singapore 

Shirley Comerford, Head of Public Service Workforce Division, Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery & Reform

Professor Peter Cappelli, Director of Wharton’s Center for Human Resources 

Peter Cheese, CEO, CIPD 

15:15

Reflections: what next for the people profession 

Peter Cheese, CEO, CIPD 

15:25

Celebrating International HR Day reception

Mark International HR Day with networking and celebration with peers

16:00

Dedicated session (separate registration)

Launch of the Civil Service People Standards Framework

17:00

Close

Programme subject to change*

Don’t forget there’s special rates for group bookings! Contact our team at events@cipd.ie.