Ibec Podcasts

In this episode of Ibec Responds, @Alan Sherlock, External Affairs Manager, sits down with @Gerard Brady, Head of National Policy and Chief Economist and @Hazel Ahern-Flynn, Senior Economist to discuss the key findings from our latest Economic Outlook report [link]. 
We are currently navigating a period of intense global volatility. From the dramatic "whiplash" trade effects driven by anticipated US tariffs to the staggering rise of AI-enabling goods, our economic landscape is shifting rapidly. Meanwhile, Irish businesses are feeling the pinch of a cooling domestic labour market and rising operational costs. 
Alan, Ger and Hazel also use this moment to reiterate our call for the deployment of the National Training Fund. Unlocking this fund is essential to support the workforce transition, prepare our people for the future of work, and firmly establish Ireland as a frontrunner in the emerging global economy. 

Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here.  Make sure to follow Ibec Podcasts to stay up to date with new episodes.

In this episode of WorkTalks, Vicky O’Neill, Ibec’s HR Strategy Specialist, is joined by Robert Mac Giolla Phádraig, Founder and CEO of SkillStack. Together, they explore the current upskilling paradox and discuss how organisations can bridge the gap between acknowledging the importance of L&D and executing a robust learning strategy. Robert shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, the power of storytelling in leadership development, and how HR leaders can effectively measure the true business value of modern learning interventions.

Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here.  Make sure to follow Ibec Podcasts to stay up to date with new episodes.

In this episode of Ibec Reponds, Alan Sherlock, External Affairs Manager, and Sharon Higgins, Executive Director of Membership and Sectors, discuss the launch Ibec’s 2026 Founders Report, From Vision to Venture.
Together, they look closely at the complex hurdles today's business leaders face, from managing work-life balance and navigating regulatory compliance to closing critical tech knowledge gaps.
Alan and Sharon break down the strategic steps needed to support Irish enterprise, focusing on three core advocacy and operational pillars:
Innovation and AI Acceleration
Bridging the Capital and Scaling Gaps
Unlocking Talent and Skills Infrastructure

Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here.  Make sure to follow Ibec Podcasts to stay up to date with new episodes.

Ahead of the commencement of the Employment (Contractual Retirement Ages) Act 2025 on 29 June, Nichola Harkin, Head Of Employment Law Services, and Aoife McFadden, Legal Director, discuss the upcoming changes to contractual retirement ages and how businesses can best prepare for this. 

Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here.  Make sure to follow Ibec Podcasts to stay up to date with new episodes.

In this episode of our Courageous Leaders, Ibec Head of Skills and Social Policy Kara McGann is joined by Dr. Mamobo Ogoro, social psychologist and Founder and CEO of GORM. 
With a background hosting 'Younified' on Newstalk and as the first Irish person to win the Echoing Green Fellowship, Dr. Ogoro brings a unique vantage point on navigating multiple identities and building positive intergroup connections.
Mamobo shares her thoughts on the science behind how positive intergroup interactions reduce prejudice and why business leaders have a unique role to play in modelling inclusive leadership and designing true cultures of belonging. 

Thank you for listening. To explore all of Ibec's podcast offering, visit here.  Make sure to follow Ibec Podcasts to stay up to date with new episodes.