Business Leaders Discuss AI’s Impact on Ireland’s Economic Growth and Competitiveness

Welcomes

The event opened with a welcome address by Darren Clarke, Business Development Manager at IoD Ireland, who noted the strong level of interest among members in AI and its growing importance as a strategic priority for boards.  A further welcome was delivered by Colin Boyd, Datacentre Solutions Sales Director at Dell Technologies Ireland & Northern Ireland, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in supporting organisations to harness AI effectively.

AI as a Strategic Driver of Competitiveness

This forward-looking and commercially focused event examined how AI is increasingly central to Ireland’s competitiveness agenda. Discussions highlighted how organisations are leveraging AI to enhance operational efficiency, drive innovation, and maintain a competitive edge in rapidly evolving markets.

The event featured a panel of expert speakers including Mary O’Connor, Chief Information Officer at ESB; Dr Barry Scannell, Member of the Government’s AI Advisory Council and Partner at William Fry; and Neil Bowden, AI Business Development Executive at Dell Technologies. The discussion was moderated by David Codd CDir, Non-Executive Director.

Expert Insights from Industry and Policy Leaders

The discussion addressed how AI could enhance Ireland’s competitiveness, highlighting the importance of infrastructure, trusted regulation, and translating AI into real business value. It also drew parallels with international markets, noting the need to move beyond ambition and focus on practical adoption.

Governance and board responsibility were central to the conversation. IoD Ireland research was cited that found while 61% of organisations have already implemented AI to a certain/high degree, and a further 34% are evaluating future use. Just 33% have a formal strategy in place that incorporates the effective use of AI, while 43% are only now beginning to develop one, and 24% do not. During the discussion, the need for stronger board oversight and due diligence was discussed. Directors were encouraged to build their understanding of AI and cyber security, supported by regulatory awareness, industry insight, and structured assessments of organisational maturity.

The discussion concluded with examples of AI delivering commercial advantage and a clear view that sustained investment in skills, infrastructure, data, and research would be essential to maintain Ireland’s long-term competitiveness.

Final Reflections 

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where attendees had the opportunity to explore key themes in greater depth and exchange perspectives with industry peers.  Building on the themes discussed throughout the panel, it was highlighted that directors must continue to strengthen their knowledge in areas such as AI governance, cyber security, and digital innovation. In response to these needs, members were reminded of the practical supports available to them, including the dedicated AI Governance Toolkit, a series of specialised workshops on AI, digital transformation, and cybersecurity, and an ongoing series of thought leadership content and director-focused insights.

The session closed with an invitation for attendees to continue the conversation through networking, providing an opportunity to share perspectives, deepen connections, and reflect on the key insights from the discussion.

IoD Ireland extends its thanks to Dell Technologies for their partnership in delivering this event. For more information on upcoming events visit the IoD Ireland website.