Best Ibec Podcasts (2026)

1
Q4 2025 Ibec Economic Outlook 17:18

Play Pause

9d ago17:18

17:18

Despite some signs of softening, the Irish economy has proven resilient in the face of the uncertainty of the past year. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Ibec’s Chief Economist Gerard Brady, and Economist Mourad Mejdi, discuss the major economic events of 2025 including the areas of international trade and the labour market… and look forward to 20…

1
EY CFO Outlook: Driving Ireland’s energy transition with Marc van Huet, CFO, Calor Ireland 38:19

12d ago38:19

38:19

In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook podcast, Marc Van Huet, CFO of Calor Ireland joins host, Dearbhail McDonald, to talk about building a modern finance engine, why a private, family-owned structure creates space to innovate, and the role LPG and BioLPG can play for rural homes, hotels and industry on the journey to net zero. He also shares the c…

1
Leading Without Barriers: Inclusion, Accessibility, and the Workplace of Tomorrow 23:55

12d ago23:55

23:55

Accessibility and inclusive leadership practises are reshaping how organisations attract, develop, and retain talent. With one in five working-age individuals living with a disability, and many others experiencing differences that may not always be visible, proactive and strategic approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for rem…

1
Digital and AI: Simplification, innovation and adoption 13:41

18d ago13:41

13:41

At the mid-point of the EU’s ‘Digital Decade’, the Irish Presidency provides a crucial opportunity to engage with business to deliver shared digitalisation ambitions. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Erik O’Donovon, Head of Digital Economy Policy, is joined by Áine Clarke, Digital and AI Affairs Executive. Together, they examine Ibec's latest pape…

1
Security and Defence: Pillars of a Resilient Europe 12:37

17d ago12:37

12:37

Security and defence are central to Europe’s capacity to prosper. The geopolitical shocks of recent years have confirmed that competitiveness cannot be separated from security. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Jackie King, Executive Director of Ibec Global, is joined by Ibec CEO Danny McCoy, together they examine how security sits within a broader…

1
Labour Market and Social Policy 18:14

18d ago18:14

18:14

Europe stands at a crossroads where social ambition must align with economic reality. Following a tidal wave of new directives, businesses are now facing "legislative saturation," prompting a call to shift focus from creating new laws to ensuring competitiveness and practical implementation. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Dr. Kara McGann, Head o…

1
Pension Auto-enrolment - Back to Basics 9:08

1M ago9:08

9:08

With pension auto-enrolment due to commence from 1 January 2026, businesses are taking steps to make sure they are ready for how this might impact them. In this episode, Neil O’Brien, Senior Employer Relations and Communications Executive, and Aoife McFadden, Legal Director, discuss the basic details of the scheme and what employers need to know to…

1
Preparing for Pay Transparency - Job Evaluation 17:16

1M ago17:16

17:16

The Pay Transparency Directive came into force in June 2023 and Ireland will have to transpose the Directive by June 2026. The Directive contains a range of new obligations for employers including the obligation to categorise employees according to who is performing work of the same work or work of equal value based on objective gender neutral crit…

1
Single Market and Simplification 24:32

1M ago24:32

24:32

Renewed political momentum around the EU Single Market comes amidst increasing geopolitical uncertainty, positioning it as key to enhancing competitiveness and resilience, and withstanding trade and economic turbulence. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Róisín de Bhaldraithe, EU Policy Executive, and Martynas Barysas, Director for Internal Market a…

1
The Business Ambition for Ireland's Presidency 17:53

2M ago17:53

17:53

Ireland's eighth Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2026 arrives at a pivotal time for our country and for Europe, offering a unique opportunity to influence the EU's policy direction. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Fergal O’Brien, Executive Director of Lobbying and Influence, is joined by Pat Ivory, Director of EU and Int…

1
HR Update Report 2025 – Key Findings 11:27

2M ago11:27

11:27

Following the release of our 2025 HR Update Report, Fiona Higgins, Head of Knowledge Centre and Stephen Driver, Head of Advocacy, provide an overview of the key findings in relation to HR priorities going into 2026. Our 2025 HR Update Report can be downloaded here. Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here. Make…

1
Reaction: Budget 2026 13:47

3M ago13:47

13:47

Budget 2026 puts focus driving innovation, protecting, and creating jobs, and increasing investment in critical infrastructure. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Ger Brady, Chief Economist, and Mourad Mejdi, Economist, give their reaction and analysis to Budget 2026, detail key measures, and discuss the impact of Budget 2026 on Irish business. Find…

1
EY CFO Outlook: From Stamps to E-Commerce with Peter Quinn, CFO, An Post 37:35

3M ago37:35

37:35

In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook Podcast, Peter Quinn, CFO of An Post joins host Dearbhail McDonald to talk about his career, the challenges An Post has faced, and why he’s optimistic about the future. “When I started my career, it was before Microsoft Excel,” recalls Peter Quinn. “People thought technology would do away with jobs. Instead, it…

1
Q3 2025 Ibec Economic Outlook 17:44

3M ago17:44

17:44

The Irish economy has again proven resilient in the face of challenge over the first three quarters of 2025. Investment and consumer demand in particular have held up despite enormous uncertainty about the global trading environment. Ireland’s economy is still benefitting from the remarkable momentum it had built over the last number of years. Howe…

1
Reaction: Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity 22:08

3M ago22:08

22:08

The recent publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity is a positive and important step in future-proofing Ireland’s economic model in a time of global change. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Gerard Brady, Chief Economist, and Fergal O’Brien, Executive Director of Lobbying and Influence, examine the detail of t…

1
What is Pay Transparency? 16:07

4M ago16:07

16:07

In the second episode of our Preparing for Pay Transparency series, Nichola Harkin, Head of Employment Law Services, and Kara McGann, Head of Skills and Social Policy, discuss the policy background and context for the Pay Transparency Directive. As employer’s prepare for the introduction of the Directive, the two discuss the intention behind the le…

1
Hybrid workplaces 29:31

4M ago29:31

29:31

Hybrid and remote working has transformed the workplace. With companies still working to cultivate the optimum blend of technology enabled, and in-person collaboration that is crucial to success. In this episode of Ibec WorkTalks, Fiona Higgins, Head of Knowledge Centre in Ibec, and Dr. Tatiana Andreeva from Maynooth University explore the hidden d…

1
Powering Innovation: NIBRT’s Role in Ireland’s Cell and Gene Therapy Future. 33:11

4M ago33:11

33:11

The upcoming BioPharmaChem Ireland Budget 2026 submission places skills and innovation at its core, emphasising the need for public investment and strategic collaboration across the ecosystem to unlock the sector’s full potential. In the latest episode of Ibec Responds, Dr. Sinead Keogh, Director of Biopharmachem Ireland and Head of Ibec Sectors, i…

1
EY CEO Outlook: Telecoms, Trust and Transition with Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland 41:25

4M ago41:25

41:25

In this episode of the EY CEO Outlook podcast, Shay Walsh, Manging Director of BT Ireland, joins host Richard Curran to reflect on a career at the cutting edge of telecoms and communications, the challenges of leading your people through major strategic change, and the future of data and connectivity. Shay Walsh’s journey began in Cabra, Dublin, wi…

1
INSPIRE: Ireland’s Next Step in Biopharma Innovation 22:00

4M ago22:00

22:00

Ireland’s pharmaceutical research model took a bold but necessary leap with the creation of SSPC, The Research Ireland Centre for Pharmaceuticals. SSPC is a world-leading hub of innovation supporting the bio-pharmaceutical industry. In the latest episode of Ibec Responds, Dr Sinead Keogh, Director of BioPharmaChem Ireland and Ibec Head of Sectors, …

1
Empowering HR with AI and a future-fit strategy for growth 35:03

4M ago35:03

35:03

Ireland is behind the curve in the adoption of artificial intelligence, with many business leaders feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about where to start —Yet this presents an unparalleled opportunity for HR to take the lead in driving impactful AI integration across organisations. In this episode of Ibec WorkTalks, Vicky O'Neill, HR Strategy Speci…

1
EY CFO Outlook: Navigating Pharma Finance with Rob Morrissey, CFO, AstraZeneca Ireland Commercial 31:54

4M ago31:54

31:54

In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook podcast, Rob Morrissey, CFO of AstraZeneca Ireland Commercial operations joins host Dearbhail McDonald to talk about his unconventional career journey, AstraZeneca’s growth plans, the role of AI in finance, and why empathy and compassion matter so much to him as a leader. Rob Morrissey’s path into finance was s…

1
Budget 2026 – Investing in the Experience Economy 17:52

5M ago17:52

17:52

The Experience Economy consists of businesses and organisations that create immersive, memorable experiences for people, in addition to selling goods and services. It spans the arts, cultural, sporting and heritage sectors, as well as hospitality, retail, travel, tourism, entertainment, and events and the supply chain that supports them. In this ep…

1
Criminal Convictions and Background Checks – What can employers do? 12:51

5M ago12:51

12:51

In this episode of KC Connect, Neil O'Brien, Senior Employer Relations and Communications Executive, and Antoinette Cunningham, Employer Relations Executive, discuss the options for employers in carrying out criminal background checks in Ireland, and how they should approach a situation where an employee declares a criminal conviction. Thank you fo…

1
Learning by doing: DEI with Mr. Price 13:13

5M ago13:13

13:13

In today’s competitive business landscape, creating an inclusive workplace is not just a matter of compliance—it’s a strategic advantage. Organisations that embrace diversity and inclusion are tapping into a rich pool of talent, driving innovation, improving retention, and boosting profitability. However, despite these benefits, Ireland’s employmen…

1
Workhuman: The strategic importance of recognition 31:10

5M ago31:10

31:10

In a competitive job market, employee recognition is more crucial than ever. Organisations that prioritise recognition not only boost morale but also enhance retention rates and overall productivity. In this episode of Ibec WorkTalks, Vicky O'Neill, HR Strategy Specialist, is joined by Niamh Graham, Senior Vice President, Global Human Experience at…

1
Our budget ambition – Matching vigilance with agility 24:46

6M ago24:46

24:46

With the global economy entering a period of uncertainty, it is clear that the economic model Ireland had relied on for the past 50 years is under significant strain. However, while the immediacy of current global challenges is undeniable, we must not lose sight of the opportunities ahead. As we look forward to Budget 2026, we must now commit to in…

1
Change management 12:41

6M ago12:41

12:41

In this episode of KC Connect, Sophie Crosbie and Mairead Crosby, Ibec Regional Directors for the South and South East, discuss how business is managing change in the workplace and exploring emerging trends. They examine how organisations are dealing with the increased pace of change due to productivity improvements driven by automation, digitalisa…

1
Our digital ambition 20:36

6M ago20:36

20:36

In advance of the publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, Ibec has activated Our Business Ambition campaign, consisting of a series of policy papers to provide clear and actionable answers to how we should forge ahead; by rekindling our ability to deliver projects, to be agile, and to compete. In this episod…

1
Tips and Gratuities – What are employers’ responsibilities? 8:27

6M ago8:27

8:27

In this episode, Keevagh Heverin, Mid West Regional Director, and Emily Maverley, Senior Employer Relations Executive, discuss employer obligations under the Payment of Wages (Amendment) (Tips and Gratuities) Act 2022 and a recent case taken under this legislation. Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here. Make…

1
Our energy ambition 20:55

7M ago20:55

20:55

In advance of the publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, Ibec has activated 'Our business ambition' campaign, consisting of a series of policy papers to provide clear and actionable answers to how we should forge ahead; by rekindling our ability to deliver projects, to be agile, and to compete. In this epis…

1
Our regulatory ambition 17:50

7M ago17:50

17:50

Over the coming weeks, and in advance of the publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, Ibec will activate Our Business Ambition campaign, consisting of a series of policy papers to provide clear and actionable answers to how we should forge ahead; by rekindling our ability to deliver projects, to be agile, and…

1
EY CEO Outlook: Business, Purpose and Healthcare with Brian Walsh, CEO of Vhi 30:18

7M ago30:18

30:18

In this episode of the EY CEO Outlook Podcast, Brian Walsh, CEO of Vhi talks with host Richard Curran about leading Vhi, combining business with purpose, and the shift toward digital and community-based healthcare. The career path that Brian Walsh has travelled is testament to the early influence of his parents and childhood. His mother worked in h…

1
Our innovation ambition 21:57

7M ago21:57

21:57

Over the coming weeks, and in advance of the publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, Ibec will activate Our Business Ambition campaign, consisting of a series of policy papers to provide clear and actionable answers to how we should forge ahead; by rekindling our ability to deliver projects, to be agile, and…

1
Our skills ambition 19:33

7M ago19:33

19:33

Over the coming weeks, and in advance of the publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, Ibec will activate Our Business Ambition campaign, consisting of a series of policy papers to provide clear and actionable answers to how we should forge ahead; by rekindling our ability to deliver projects, to be agile, and…

1
Shared Value - Creating economic and societal value 23:52

7M ago23:52

23:52

Shared value is a competitive strategy that simultaneously creates value for business and society. With societal deficits, (housing, childcare, transport etc) and environmental impacts creating business costs and employee strain, organisations are having to take the steering wheel. Leadership is being redefined to span beyond the boundaries of the …

1
Our business ambition 27:16

7M ago27:16

27:16

Over the coming weeks, and in advance of the publication of the Government’s Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, Ibec will activate Our Business Ambition campaign, consisting of a series of policy papers to provide clear and actionable answers to how we should forge ahead; by rekindling our ability to deliver projects, to be agile, and…

1
Navigating Polarisation: Business Leadership in a Fragmented World 13:05

8M ago13:05

13:05

The global operating environment for business has entered a period of deep, structural change. Polarisation—once a political concern—is now a daily operational reality. Whether engaging consumers, employees, governments or investors, business leaders are navigating a world where familiar signals are increasingly unreliable, and missteps carry lasti…

1
Expert Spotlight Series: Canada, Geoeconomics, and the Future of Transatlantic Trade - A Conversation with Goldy Hyder 32:41

8M ago32:41

32:41

Our Ibec Global Leaders and Experts Spotlight Series shares insights and expertise from a wide variety of international leaders and experts on global megatrends and issues that have the potential to impact the international business environment, economies and societies. In this episode, Jackie King, Executive Director of Ibec Global is joined by Go…

1
The Abbey Theatre – Delivering cultural experiences 17:59

8M ago17:59

17:59

Our ‘Experience Economy’ series continues in this episode of Ibec Responds as Aviné McNally, Head of Membership, Ibec, is in conversation with Mark O’Brien, Executive Director, Abbey Theatre. They discuss the importance of arts, culture and theatre to the experience economy ecosystem. Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offeri…

1
Expert Spotlight Series: David Collenette 11:26

8M ago11:26

11:26

Our Ibec Global Leaders and Experts Spotlight Series shares insights and expertise from a wide variety of international leaders and experts on global megatrends and issues that have the potential to impact the international business environment, economies and societies. In this episode, Jackie King, Executive Director of Ibec Global and David Colle…

1
Workplace Wellbeing with SIRO 20:03

8M ago20:03

20:03

Ibec is celebrating 11 years of National Workplace Wellbeing Day, promoting healthier, more supportive work environments. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Patrick Haslett, Product Manager of our KeepWell Services, is in conversation with Gillian Quigley, Employee Experience Manager at SIRO. They discuss how the KeepWell Mark has supported SIRO’s s…

1
Workplace Wellbeing with Irish Rail 21:11

9M ago21:11

21:11

Ibec is celebrating 11 years of National Workplace Wellbeing Day, promoting healthier, more supportive work environments. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Patrick Haslett, Product Manager for the KeepWell Mark, is in conversation with Sharon Daly, Health & Wellbeing Programme Manager at Irish Rail. They discuss Irish Rail’s workplace wellbeing str…

1
EY CFO Outlook: Building strong financial foundations for professional rugby with Thelma O’Driscoll, CFO, IRFU 21:48

9M ago21:48

21:48

In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook podcast, Thelma O’Driscoll, CFO of the IRFU joins host Jonathan Healy to talk about her diverse career path, her passion for growing male and female rugby from the grassroots up, and how the role of CFO enables her to create a strong and sustainable financial foundation for the game. Thelma O’Driscoll’s journey…

1
Equality Claims: The Prima Facie Case 11:21

9M ago11:21

11:21

In this episode, Laura Kerin and Brian Joyce from our Employer Relations team, explore the topic of equality in the workplace. Focusing on recent WRC cases taken under the Employment Equality Act, Brian and Laura discuss how cases operate under this legislation and how employers may defend against these claims. Thank you for listening. To explore a…

1
Reaction: Trump administration announces tariffs 17:21

9M ago17:21

17:21

The United States have announced the implementation of tariffs on trading partners, including Ireland. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Fergal O’Brien, Executive Director of Lobbying and Influence, and Gerard Brady, Chief Economist, give their reaction and discuss the impact this will have on Irish business. Thank you for listening. To explore all…

1
International insights: Our recent engagements in UK, US and EU 18:50

9M ago18:50

18:50

Ibec's international lobbying agenda has been busy, with key engagements in the UK, the European Parliament in Brussels, and the US, where representatives met business leaders, industry groups, and senior officials in New York and Washington, D.C. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Fergal O'Brien, Executive Director of Lobbying and Influence, and Pa…

1
Sustaining success through disruption - Interview with Lucy Adams 17:39

9M ago17:39

17:39

Lucy Adams is the CEO of Disruptive HR, an agency that’s on a mission to challenge the status quo, reimagine traditional practices, and inspire leaders and HR professionals to approach their roles with renewed vision and energy. After working in high-level HR roles across different sectors including Director of HR at the BBC, Lucy has spent the las…

1
The EU Savings and Investment Union 14:43

10M ago14:43

14:43

Advancing the EU Savings and Investment Union and completing the Banking Union while establishing a common fiscal capacity are essential to EU competitiveness. In this episode of Ibec Responds, Neil Willoughby, Head of EU Policy, and Mourad Mejdi, Economist, delve into the detail of the Ibec policy brief on the EU Savings and Investment Union, and …

1
Understanding and Managing Vulnerable Workers from an OSH Perspective – Prevention, Protection and Promotion 26:45

10M ago26:45

26:45

In this KC Connect podcast, Bernie McMeel, Ibec OSH Executive, and Dr Joan Cahill, Assistant Principal at the Health and Safety Authority, provide an insight into the occupational safety and health considerations which employers need to be aware of regarding vulnerable workers. Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, vis…