In this article, IoD Ireland CEO Caroline Spillane CDir reflects on the pivotal role directors play in shaping organisational success. She also reflects on IoD Ireland's mission to empower directors with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead with integrity and deliver real impact. This article was orginally published by Business Plus.
IoD Ireland CEO Caroline Spillane CDir highlights the pivotal role directors play in shaping organisational success. She underscores IoD Ireland's mission to empower directors with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead with integrity and deliver real impact.
“Being a director is a privilege but also comes with responsibility” reflects IoD Ireland CEO Caroline Spillane CDir. “A director is one of the most comprehensive and impactful positions in any organisation.
“To thrive in this role, you must continuously develop your skills, balancing core competencies such as finance, governance, and strategy, with leadership qualities like behavioural risk management and team collaboration. Additionally, embracing innovative technologies and practices is crucial for staying ahead in today’s dynamic business landscape. In fact, new IoD Ireland research revealed future in-demand skills needed for a board to succeed are strategy, risk management and artificial intelligence”.
Caroline Spillane CDir, chief executive of Institute of Directors Ireland
A New Era of Director Development
Designed for directors at every stage of their journey, the IoD offers a comprehensive suite of workshops - delivered both in-person and online. These sessions address the realities of modern boardrooms, from regulatory compliance and risk management to digital transformation and sustainability.
Directors can choose from workshops such as Getting Board Ready and Corporate Governance in Practice, to more advanced topics like Digital and AI for Boards, and a new peer-to-peer learning format exploring board-level risk.
The Chartered Director Programme: Setting the Standard
For directors seeking a more in-depth deep dive into corporate governance, the Chartered Director Programme remains the gold standard for director training in Ireland. Offering a transformative educational experience, the programme covers modules on governance, strategy, leadership, and corporate finance. It fosters deep engagement through small cohorts, peer-to-peer learning, and real-world case studies resulting in an internationally recognised qualification.
“As the only programme in Ireland offering the Chartered Director designation, it validates advanced director competencies and signals a commitment to best practice in corporate governance.”
Bespoke Board Training: Tailored for Impact
IoD Ireland’s Bespoke Board Training service provides confidential, customised solutions to strengthen governance and enhance decision-making. Delivered by experienced facilitators and seasoned directors, our approach is designed to meet the unique needs of your board, ensuring a customised learning and development experience.
Take the Next Step in Your Director Journey
Spillane concludes by noting that “IoD Ireland’s 2026 offerings are more than just educational programmes - they are a vital resource for directors committed to excellence, leadership, and long-term value. By investing in their own development and that of their boards, directors can ensure they are prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
Learn more about how IoD Ireland can support your next steps in governance, performance and leadership.
Learning and Education Opportunities
Shape the future of governance. Explore the breadth of our learning and education opportunities.
