The Cii Summit is a pivotal event in today's rapidly evolving world, addressing critical themes such as philanthropy, political influence, growth mindset, digital disruption, organisational design, and investment impact. Picture an Ireland without charities. What would it look like? In an era marked by an unrelenting pursuit of profit and technological advancements that threaten human connection and purpose, the indispensable role of charities becomes evident. They are not just important; they are essential. Our Summit program is designed to unlock the power of Ireland's leading charities, demonstrating their crucial role in fostering a fair, equal, and inclusive society. As we approach an election year, our sector must have a seat at the table, partnering in shaping the economic and social dialogue for our country's future.
Our keynote speaker, Dr Margaret (Windham) Heffernan, renowned for her 2019 TED Talk "The Human Skills We Need in an Unpredictable World," which has garnered over 4 million views, will set the stage for a day of insightful discussions. Charities matter for political stability, fostering social cohesion during deep division and fiscal inequality. With wealth consolidating into fewer hands, our economic equality depends on a thriving and valued not-for-profit sector to ensure everyone can access services and resources. Our value and contribution cannot be overlooked, with one in eight people employed in the sector. The government must recognise and support the indispensable role of charities as an investment in our nation's strength and resilience.
Join us at the Summit as we delve into these critical discussions, showcase charities' profound impact, and advocate for their rightful place in shaping a brighter future for Ireland. Your participation in the "Catalysts for Change: Influencing the Political Agenda" panel, hosted by Newstalk's Shane Coleman, is crucial as we explore these themes and work together to shape a more resilient and inclusive future. Your input is essential as we navigate these challenges and identify opportunities for transformative change.
Dr. Margaret (Windham) Heffernan worked at the BBC for 13 years, producing dramas and documentaries for radio and TV. She also led multimedia productions for several US companies. Margaret is a well-known author with six books to her name, including Willful Blindness: Why We Ignore the Obvious at our Peril was named one of the most important business books of the decade by the Financial Times. She's a sought-after speaker at global conferences. Her TED talks, viewed by over fifteen million people, have made a significant impact. Her most recent book, Uncharted: How to map the future was published in 2020. It quickly became a bestseller and, was nominated for the Financial Times Best Business Book award, was one of Bloomberg’s Best Books of 2021. She is a Professor of Practice at the University of Bath and, through Merryck & Co., mentors CEOs and senior executives of major global organizations. She speaks at major corporate and non-profit conferences worldwide, chairs the board of DACS and has advised the Casey Review on the culture and standards of the Metropolitan Police and the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse led by Alexis Jay. In 2023, Margaret was inducted into the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame for her lasting contribution to management thinking. Margaret continues to be an active broadcaster, writer, and community member. Her new book, "Embracing Uncertainty," is set to be published in March 2025.
Catalysts for Change: Influencing the Political Agenda
In a world fraught with socio-economic disparities and political discord, the role of charities as influencers in shaping political agendas is paramount. This closing panel, hosted by Newstalk's Shane Coleman, delves deep into the trenches of advocacy, spotlighting how charities wield their power to drive tangible policy changes and societal reforms.
Exploring the dynamic intersection of charity work and political activism, our esteemed panellists reveal the strategic maneuvers and bold initiatives that propel charities into the spotlight as formidable influencers. From grassroots movements to high-stakes negotiations, we unveil the behind-the-scenes strategies that elevate charities from mere stakeholders to architects of change on the political stage.
Join us as we uncover the impactful ways in which charities are shaping the future of political discourse and policy-making, ensuring that the voices of the vulnerable and marginalised are not only heard but drive forward societal progress.
9:00 AM - Registration
Tea, Coffee, Pastries and Networking with sponsors and guests
9:30 AM - Welcome and Opening Remarks
Susan O'Dwyer, Chair, Charities Institute Ireland
John Mercer, CEO, Mercer Ireland
10:00 AM - Key Note
Dr. Margaret (Windham) Heffernan
Certain human skills are crucial for navigating uncertainties in an ever-changing world. Margaret Heffernan will explore the importance of adaptability, resilience, and innovation, providing insights on how to cultivate these skills within our organisations. Learn how to prepare for unpredictable challenges and seize emerging opportunities
10:30 AM - Morning Tea Break and Networking
11:00 AM – Morning Panel 1
What if Charities Didn’t Exist?
Moderator: Barry McLoughlin Head of Client Engagement and Senior Consultant at The Communications Clinic
This panel will discuss why charities matter; economically, socially and politically. The discussion will also cover alternative models for social impact and how community needs might be delivered differently in an ever-changing world.
12:00 PM – Morning Panel 2
Inspiring Philanthropy: Strategies for Effective Engagement and Investment
Moderator: Darren Ryan, Founder Onwards Philanthropy
Panelists: Eilis Murray, CEO, Philanthropy Ireland, Edel O'Malley, CEO, basis.point, Liam Lynch, Tax Partner, KPMG
Uncover effective strategies for inspiring philanthropy, enhancing engagement, and optimising philanthropic investments. The panel will discuss innovative ways to engage donors, education and collaborative financing. Attendees will gain insights on how to harness philanthropic investments and drive sustainable social change.
12:00 PM – Morning Panel 3
Building Trust and Reputation in the Age of Disinformation
Moderator: Barry McLoughlin Head of Client Engagement and Senior Consultant at The Communications Clinic
Panelists: Nick Henderson, CEO, The Irish Refugee Council; Niamh McDonald, Director, Hope & Courage Collective, Dr. Eileen Culloty, DCU
This session will delve into the challenges to trust what we see, hear and read in a world rife with misinformation. Panelists will discuss strategies for charities to safeguard their credibility, manage public perception, and communicate their mission.
12:00 PM – Morning Panel 4
Redefining Organisational Design for Impact and Growth
Moderator: Aidan Stacey, Commercial Director, IWA
Panellists: Andrew Bathgate, Co-Founder Good Innovation; Tim Griffiths, CEO, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.
Explore bold new strategies for reshaping organisational design to manage the uncertainty of how we work now and in the future. This workshop-style panel will cover innovative ways to create meaningful change and enhance viability, how to adapt our organisational structures to better improve recruitment and retention.
1:00 PM – Lunch
2:00 PM - Afternoon Panel 1
Navigating Digital Disruption: Challenges and Opportunities in the Workplace
Moderator: Dina Rickman, GoFundMe
Panelists: Breda O'Malley, Partner, Hayes Solicitors; Wendy Murphy, EMEA Director, Global Clients - LinkedIn Talent Solutions; Barry Winkless, Chief Strategy Officer, Cpl Group & Head of the Future of Work Institute, Cpl
As digital technologies rapidly evolve, they create anticipation and worry in our workplaces. This panel will explore some of the complexities, including the impact of AI and automation. Learn how digital disruption is reshaping work and gain insights on how we can manage these changes.
2:00 PM - Afternoon Panel 2
Maximizing Philanthropic Impact through Investment Governance and Sustainability Reporting
Moderator: Rob Meaney, Head of Responsible Investing at Mercer
Panellists: Catriona Wood, Sustainable Investment Specialist at Mercer; Philip Smith, Head of Charity Law Group, Arthur Cox; Aedin O'Leary, Independent Non-Executive Director, Environmental & NFP Consulting.
Delve into strategies to optimise investment governance for the charity sector, a vital topic for charity trustees. This session will cover risk management, governance practices, and sustainable investment strategies. Attendees will hear how to align investment strategies with your organisation’s goals to maximize social impact.
2:00 PM - Afternoon Panel 3
Thriving Through Change: Growth Mindset Development in the NFP Sector
Moderator: Julie McDonald, Trustee, PayPal Giving Fund Ireland
Panelists: Lisa-Nicole Dunne, Founder, Mantra Strategy; Ashley Usiskin, Founder, The Gift of Help.
Cultivate a growth mindset in the NFP sector. This workshop will focus on personal and professional development, strategic goal alignment, and innovative problem-solving to drive organisational resilience and growth. Reframe challenges, leverage skills, and explore new development pathways through small, continuous experiments.
3:00 PM – Afternoon Panel 4
Catalysts for Change: Influencing the Political Agenda
Moderator: Shane Coleman, Journalist, Newstalk
Panelists: Lorna Hayes, Interim CEO Policy & Research, European Movement Ireland; Prof. Gary Murphy, Professor of Politics, DCU; Kathleen O'Meara, Public Affairs Consultant; Danielle Martin, Managing Director of Public Affairs and Regulatory, Drury
As we enter a general election cycle, this timely panel discussion will explore how charities can shape political agendas through advocacy, policy change, and societal reforms. Learn how charities can become powerful influencers and gain insights into the intersection of charity purpose and political activism, with the aim of creating a fairer society for everyone.
4:00 PM - Closing Remarks: Envisioning the Future
Aine Myler, CEO, Charities Institute Ireland
We thank Mercer Ireland for their invaluable support in making the Cii Summit 2024 possible. With over 75 years of providing trusted advice and solutions, Mercer is committed to building healthier and more sustainable futures for its clients, colleagues, and communities.
Mercer Ireland's ongoing support enables the hosting of this vital event but also reinforces collective efforts to foster collaboration, innovation, and progress within the charitable sector. Their partnership is instrumental in achieving a more just and equitable future. Thank you, Mercer Ireland, for your unwavering commitment to Charities Institute Ireland, its members, and the sector as a whole.
