Some of Ireland's most respected figures from the worlds of business and sport will gather in Carlow this November for the second annual Club Carlow Business Summit, an event designed to inspire ambition, strengthen business networks, and explore the leadership qualities needed to succeed in an increasingly challenging environment.
Taking place at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel on Friday, 6 November from 11.00am to 3.00pm, the summit is being delivered through a partnership between Club Carlow and Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office. The event will bring together entrepreneurs, business owners, community leaders and professionals from across the region for an afternoon of insight, networking and inspiration.
This year's line-up features renowned rugby coach Joe Schmidt, champion jockey Rachael Blackmore, Keelings Group’s Caroline Keeling and Kingspan CEO Gene Murtagh. Through a series of in-depth interviews and fireside conversations, each speaker will share personal experiences of leadership, resilience, performance and decision-making under pressure focussing on the summit’s theme of “Breaking the Ceiling”.
The summit draws inspiration from the values that underpin both successful businesses and successful sporting organisations, including teamwork, determination, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement. Attendees will gain practical insights from leaders who have excelled at the very highest levels while also having opportunities to build new connections and strengthen existing relationships within Carlow's business community.
David Walsh, Chairperson of Club Carlow, said the event had been created to support and inspire ambitious individuals and organisations across the county.
"The Club Carlow Business Summit is about bringing together people who are striving to achieve more, whether in business, sport or their communities. The calibre of speakers this year is exceptional, and each has a unique story of overcoming challenges, developing high-performing teams and building lasting success. We want attendees to leave with fresh ideas, renewed ambition and a greater understanding of what it takes to create a winning culture."
Launching the event, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr. Tommy Kinsella highlighted the importance of strong local networks in supporting economic and community development.
"Carlow's greatest strength has always been its people. Our businesses, community organisations and sporting clubs all demonstrate the power of collaboration, resilience and shared purpose. Events such as the Club Carlow Business Summit provide an important opportunity to celebrate those strengths, encourage new connections and support the continued growth and success of our county."
Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise with Carlow County Council, said the summit reflects the Council's commitment to fostering a strong and supportive business environment.
"Business success is built on relationships, leadership and the ability to adapt and respond to change. By bringing together influential voices from business and sport, this summit offers valuable lessons that can help organisations of all sizes navigate challenges and seize new opportunities. It also reinforces the importance of networking and collaboration in building a resilient and thriving local economy."
Now in its second year, the Club Carlow Business Summit continues to establish itself as a key event in the county's economic and business calendar, offering participants the opportunity to learn from some of
Ireland's most accomplished leaders while strengthening the connections that drive local success.
Booking Information
Places can be booked through Club Carlow by calling 085 8098211 or emailing operations.carlow@gaa.ie.
Photo 1:
L-R, Séamus Doran, Carlow County Council; Jamsie Doran; David Walsh, Chairperson of Club Carlow; Coilín O’Reilly, Chief Executive of Carlow County Council.
Photo Credit: Finbar O’Rourke
Photo 2:
David Walsh, Chairperson of Club Carlow, with U8 hurler Jamsie Doran.
Photo Credit: Finbar O’Rourke