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The exclusive INED forum examined the geopolitical & economic forces reshaping global business and their impact on boards. Featuring a keynote from renowned author and geopolitical commentator John Kampfner. Held in partnership with PwC Ireland.
Setting the Scene
IoD Ireland CEO Caroline Spillane CDir opened the event and welcomed the attendees to the exclusive forum for senior directors and experienced independent non‑executive directors. In her address Caroline reflected on new IoD Ireland research which highlighted that business leaders are confident about the future financial performance of their organisation. However, she also highlighted that global economic growth and geopolitical uncertainity were ranked as the single biggest risk facing their organisation.
Caroline also took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank PwC Ireland for their partnership in the event. In particular acknowledging Damian Byrne, Partner, PwC Ireland, and Susan Kilty, Chief Operating Officer, Transformation Leader and Deputy Managing Partner, PwC Ireland. Caroline then welcomed guest speaker John Kampfner, Internationally recognised Author and Geopolitical Commentator.
Leadership and resilience in an era of constant global disruption
In his address, John Kampfner, Internationally recognised Author and Geopolitical Commentator, reflected on decades of experience observing global change to explore how uncertainty, disruption and long‑term pressures are reshaping politics, economies and societies. He challenged assumptions about stability and inevitability, arguing that the world is entering a new and less predictable phase.
In his keynote address, John set out four guiding principles for understanding today’s global risks. He argued that history often creates a false sense of logic, downplaying randomness and unpredictability, and warned against the comfort of seeing patterns where none exist. He cautioned that businesses and boards must abandon the belief that certain events are 'not possible', stressing instead that anything can happen and that this uncomfortable reality must inform risk assessment and planning. John also reflected that post‑1945 global order is coming to an end, requiring leaders to confront profound geopolitical change and decide whether to shape the future or allow it to be shaped for them.
While acknowledging the temptation to lapse into pessimism, John concluded that the real challenge lies in proposing solutions, thinking radically, taking risks and acting decisively in the face of uncertainty.
Final Reflections
The event was closed by Damian Byrne, Partner, PwC Ireland. Damian took the opportunity to acknowledge John for his insights, and also thanked the attendees for their engaging questions and engagement. Damian also thanked IoD Ireland for their colloboration in the event.
The event provided valuable context to help directors assess external risks and strengthen boardroom discussions in the face of ongoing global uncertainty. The event also offered attendees a valuable opportunity to network and engage with the audience of senior directors and experienced independent non‑executive directors to exchange perspectives and reflect on how boards can remain resilient and effective amid rapid political and economic change.
IoD Ireland extends its thanks to PwC Ireland for partnering on this event. For more information on upcoming events visit the IoD Ireland website.
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