Stock exchange boss Somers for leadership lunch

NETWORK Cork, the Cork branch of Network Ireland, in association with Cork Chamber, will host a Women in Leadership executive lunch on Friday, 22nd of April at the Ambassador Hotel, with special guest speaker Deirdre Somers, one of Ireland’s most prominent business women.

 Network Ireland’s Cork Branch provides a forum where women in business, the professions and the arts can exchange business ideas and increase their business contacts. 

Deirdre Somers was appointed chief executive of the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE) in June 2007.  During her tenure the ISE modernised its structure, expanded its services domestically and internationally, rising to the Number 1 stock exchange globally in fixed income and funds listings.  

The ISE was awarded Best Place to Work in Ireland (medium sized companies) just last month. Deirdre is currently president of the Federation of European Securities Exchanges. 

Deirdre is outspoken about the importance of the role of markets as a relevant and accessible funding source for companies, particularly for high potential SMEs and is looking forward to sharing her views with the people of Cork.

The executive lunch will celebrate the high calibre of women in leadership positions and will be attended by some of the most dynamic and influential business people in the region. 

 Speaking ahead of the event, Network Cork president Joan Walsh said Deirdre is an excellent example of a hardworking and hugely successful leader in business. ‘We are also proud to continue our partnership Cork Chamber for this annual event, it is fantastic to have two organisations like Cork Chamber and Network Cork come together to deliver an event as such as this.’

 Also speaking ahead of the event, president of Cork Chamber, Barrie O’Connell said dthat inclusive businesses with diverse leadership make better decisions, which translates into better business performance. ‘Cork Chamber is therefore delighted to once again partner with Network Cork for this annual executive lunch promoting women in leadership. We are delighted to have Cork native Deirdre Somers as guest speaker for this lunch. 

 As one of the most influential business leaders in the country, we look forward to hearing her vision for alternative funding models - not least for the growing number of high-potential SMEs coming out of Cork.’

 This event, which starts at 12:30pm with a networking reception followed by a three course lunch, is open to all who wish to network with others in leadership positions in Cork.

Network Cork is one of eight branches of Network Ireland, a national organisation and it holds monthly networking meetings where a guest speaker is invited to educate, inform and entertain on topics of interest to women. Members can develop and pool their individual skills through interaction with other women in a supportive environment which offers, training, mentoring and an opportunity for women who call on other members with specialist expertise for help. It also provides a forum for established women to develop professional and social contacts.

Network Cork is sponsored by the Local Enterprise Office in Cork City – the first stop for anyone seeking information and support on starting or growing a business in Ireland.  

 Tickets for the event are €60, including booking fee. Advance booking is essential. To book please visit https://networkchamberwomeninleadership.eventbrite.ie/