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.
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*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
11:45
Expert-led interactive conversations (Exhibition Hall)
Choose from a wide range of hot topics led by industry experts across five key themes:
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.