The Institute of Directors Northern Ireland (IoD NI) has announced the launch of its flagship Women's Leadership Conference as well as a 20th anniversary Gala Ball in 2027, marking 20 years of empowering, inspiring and connecting women in leadership.
Over the past two decades, the IoD NI Women's Conference has become one of Northern Ireland's most established and respected leadership events, providing a platform for inspiring conversations, professional development and meaningful networking opportunities.
Taking place across 4th and 5th March 2027, the special anniversary programme will bring together leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers from across Northern Ireland and beyond to celebrate progress, share insights and inspire the next generation of leaders.
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The 2027 event will feature an exceptional speaker line-up including internationally renowned environmental advocate Erin Brockovich and acclaimed classicist, author and broadcaster Professor Dame Mary Beard OBE.
They will be joined by Joanne O'Riordan, journalist, sports commentator and activist; Helen Kelly, Managing Director, Co-Head of Global Treasury Coverage UK & Europe and Head of Corporate Banking Europe at Barclays Bank Ireland plc; Melissa Hamilton, Principal of The Royal Ballet in London; and Dr Sam Bunting, dermatologist, founder and CEO of Dr Sam's Skincare.
Returning for 2027 is the popular Pitch Perfect competition, which will see female entrepreneurs pitch their businesses live to an audience of 550 leaders for the chance to win a bursary to support the growth of their business.
The celebrations will begin with a prestigious Gala Ball, recognising two decades of achievement and impact, followed by the IoD NI Women's Leadership Conference, featuring keynote addresses, panel discussions and thought-provoking conversations on leadership, innovation and progress.
Kirsty McManus, Nations Director, IoD Northern Ireland, said:
"We are incredibly proud to celebrate 20 years of the IoD NI Women's Leadership Conference. Over the past two decades, the event has grown into one of Northern Ireland's most significant leadership gatherings, creating opportunities for learning, networking and inspiration.
"This anniversary year promises to be our most ambitious yet, bringing together world-class speakers and showcasing outstanding entrepreneurial talent through our Pitch Perfect competition. As we celebrate the progress made over the last 20 years, we look forward to inspiring the next generation of leaders and shaping the future of leadership together."
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Lyn Harris, Managing Partner - Belfast office, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, said:
"Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is proud to support this landmark anniversary event. The IoD NI Women's Leadership Conference has played an important role in championing leadership, opportunity and ambition, and we are delighted to be part of its 20-year celebrations.
"The calibre of speakers, combined with initiatives such as Pitch Perfect, will make this a truly inspiring and impactful event for delegates from across the business community."
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