The Northern Ireland Investment Summit taking place this week is a timely reminder that a lower corporation tax rate for Northern Ireland could further enhance the attractiveness of the region as a place to invest and do business The Summit takes place just months after the UK main rate of corporation tax increased from 19% to 25% To crystallise a lower rate, capitalise on Northern Ireland’s unique trading position under the Windsor Framework, and tackle the many critical issues facing the region, the resurrection of the Northern Ireland Executive continues to be urgently needed Lack of a Northern Ireland Executive continues to hamper companies in the region from fully realising the potential of all the unique opportunities open to them, with many facing a tax bill double that of their counterparts in Ireland where the corporation tax rate is 12.5%, according to Chartered Accountants Ireland. The Institute, which represents over 5,000 members in Northern Ireland, more than two thirds of whom work in business, made these remarks as Northern Ireland this week hosts an Investment Summit exhibiting to business leaders and prospective investors the best that the region has to offer. Commenting, Janette Burns, Chair of the Northern Ireland Tax Committee of Chartered Accountants Ireland said: “In the year of the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday (Belfast) agreement, the Investment Summit taking place this week is an opportunity for over 100 leading investors and international businesses to see first-hand the talent, and expertise that Northern Ireland has to offer, not least in the innovation and technology sectors. “However, we can’t overlook the fact that the cash flow of many companies here is taking a significant hit with corporation tax bills up by almost 32%. Coupled with ongoing inflationary pressures, this ultimately means significantly lower after-tax profits, and less cash for investment to drive company growth and expansion, reward employees, and create high value employment. “The UK Government clearly recognises Northern Ireland’s unique position. Now is the time for our politicians to grasp this additional opportunity.  A rate of 12.5%, matching that in Ireland, would give Northern Ireland companies a real competitive edge in attracting foreign direct investment and energising indigenous businesses to thrive and prosper. “The economic benefits of a lower rate and the steps needed to implement it are well known and were highlighted again recently by the work of the Fiscal Commission. But we need our Executive back in situ to start the ball rolling on this and many other urgent issues in education, childcare, the economy, and health. Northern Ireland’s business leaders want our politicians to get on with this work in order to transform the region into a truly dynamic and attractive place to invest, do business, live, and work”.    Paul Millar, Chairman of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society added: “Last year we met with HM Treasury to discuss the economic benefits that a lower corporation tax rate would bring to the region where we also took the opportunity to highlight the potential for flexibilities to manage the impact of a reduction on Northern Ireland’s block grant. From the end of this month, improved access to the UK’s internal market will also be available under the Windsor Framework via the new green channel arrangements. “Although there have been rumblings from several of the main political parties in recent months about the potential for a lower rate, what we’ve seen so far is not action, but soundbites. This does not help pay the tax bills of Northern Ireland companies, many of whom are in dire need of additional cash flow to enable them to fully realise and capitalise on our unique trading access to both the UK’s internal market and the EU’s single market.” Paul Millar concluded: “Northern Ireland companies have dealt with crisis after crisis in the last few years, but many remain adaptive and resilient. They now need to be given the tools to flourish. As inflation begins to fall, now is the time for our politicians to act and get back into government. We encourage them to grasp this transformative change and take the steps needed to begin implementation of a lower corporation tax rate. “We urge our political parties to set aside party concerns and work together for the benefit of the whole region and its citizens.” Other information:- From 1 April 2023, the main rate of corporation tax in the UK increased from 19 percent to 25 percent, for companies with taxable profits of more than £250,000 Companies with profits between £50,000 and £250,000 now pay corporation tax at the 25% main rate, reduced by marginal relief; The rate remains at 19 percent if taxable profits are £50,000 or less; For companies with associates (broadly companies under common control), the £250,000 and £50,000 limits are reduced, meaning the higher corporation tax rates are payable on lower levels of taxable profits. During 2022, the Independent Fiscal Commission for Northern Ireland reported on the benefits of a lower rate of corporation tax for the region while also recognising the risks, complexities and constructive engagement required from the Northern Ireland Executive and HM Treasury to achieve this.

On 27 June, the Ulster Society hosted a webinar looking at the economic outlook for Northern Ireland in the year ahead. In this webinar we checked in with three of Northern Ireland's leading economists (Maureen O'Reilly, Conor Lambe and Gareth Hetherington) who gave some insight into the key issues affecting the local economy; and to examine what businesses and policy-makers can do to address the challenges ahead.  A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE  

On 13 June, the Ulster Society hosted the latest in a series of legal webinars with A&L Goodbody's Sam Corbett and Chris Coulter focussing Winding Up Petitions. The return of winding up petitions in Northern Ireland after being restrained for the last three years is expected to have an impact on local corporates, and those who advise them. This webinar covers: • Market Context. • Potential catalysts in the market. • Likely impacted industries. • Insolvency Stats – England -v- NI • Lessons from England – (English restrictions were lifted a year before NI). • How to deal with Winding up Petitions and the impact they can have – practical hints and tips A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE A pdf copy of the slides from this presentation is available HERE

On 8 June the Ulster Society hosted a webinar in partnership with British Business Bank addressing the issue of sustainability, and the responsibilities upon businesses and their advisers in meeting sustainability targets. This presentation by Julia Groves covered the basics of net zero and carbon accounting, the broader consideration of environmental, social and governance factors in business decision, why SMEs should take action, what they can do and how the British Business Bank is involved. A recording of this webinar is available to view HERE A pdf copy of Julia's slides is available HERE  

On 5 June, the Ulster Society hosted the second in a series of financial wellbeing webinars in partnership with Evelyn Partners, aimed at helping members to boost both their advisory capabilities and their own personal financial wellbeing. In this webinar viewers are invited to score and assess their own financial plan as Alison Dean, Chartered Financial Planner, and Aaron Carey, Chartered Wealth Manager, provide insight and expert tips on how to secure your financial wellbeing. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE A copy of the slides from this presentation is available to view HERE

Paul Millar wants members to “be inspired by entrepreneurs” in the year ahead. Paul Millar has been elected Chairman of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society at its 116th Annual General Meeting. The Ulster Society represents 5,350 local Chartered Accountants and is a district society of Chartered Accountants Ireland, the largest and oldest professional accountancy body in Ireland. Mr Millar is Chief Executive of Whiterock Finance which provides finance to companies in Northern Ireland and he has considerable experience of providing both corporate financial advice and funding to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). He previously spent seven years in Corporate & Business Banking in Bank of Ireland, and prior to that worked for ten years in senior roles in KPMG and Deloitte. Addressing the Society’s AGM, held at the Merchant Hotel, Belfast, Mr Millar said that the key priority would be to embrace entrepreneurs and unleash Northern Ireland’s potential: “I believe that there is so much to be positive about in Northern Ireland. I can see first-hand the amount of creativity, innovation, drive and resilience in our business community. We are on the brink of something special. “I want our Chartered Accountants to be inspired by entrepreneurs and work together to help to build the businesses which secure the future of everyone within our community. “We need to support innovative businesses which help to boost everything else within our society, from health, to education, to housing to wellbeing. We must do more to encourage those who have a positive vision for Northern Ireland and have the drive to realise that vision. Mr Millar also highlighted the need for leadership in what continue to be straitened times: “Of course, there are challenges for Northern Ireland. The cost-of-living crisis, and the cost of doing business continue to be difficult for everyone. Just about every sector is facing a skills shortage and when we need leadership the most, we continue to face a democratic deficit at Stormont. “We should be prepared to move mountains to support entrepreneurs and to bring though the skills that we need to succeed. It is vital that we encourage talent, build opportunities and make sure that Northern Ireland is a great place to live and work. We believe that Northern Ireland has great people and fantastic potential if given the right conditions to flourish.” “Throughout my career as a Chartered Accountant, I’ve been lucky to meet some truly inspirational business leaders. I’d like to promote that entrepreneurial spirit and encourage all of those decision makers in the private sector, in the public sector, and in politics to do the same.” Mr Millar said that he would be working to build on the success that the Ulster Society has enjoyed during the leadership of his predecessor, Emma Murray: “During the last year, Emma has done a fantastic job in speaking up both for our members and for the local business community. I will be working hard to continue that. I know that with the calibre of the people in our committee structures and our wider Institute network that we are well set to be an effective voice for members in Northern Ireland.”  

All members are invited to attend the 2023 Ulster Society Annual General Meeting, taking place on Monday, 5 June 2023, at 4.30pm in The Merchant Hotel, Belfast. Members can register to attend here   Apologies can be emailed to Karen Hewitt [email] Relevant Documents: Annual Report 2022 AGM minutes 2022 AGM Agenda 2023 Election Report 2023 Rules of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society

On 16 May, the Ulster Society hosted a legal series webinar with A&L Goodbody's Sam Corbett and Chris Coulter focussing on funding cuts and insolvency in the third sector. This session focused on  planning and safeguarding for third sector organisations and included pointers for professional advisers and an update on trustee/director responsibilities and obligations particularly when charities are facing cuts.  A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE A pdf copy of Sam and Chris' presentation is available to view HERE  

Over 120 of Northern Ireland’s leading Chartered Accountants are in Lisbon this week for a Conference examining trade links, innovation, business disruption and economic growth. The ‘New Frontiers’ Conference in the Portuguese capital, organised by Chartered Accountants Ulster Society and supported by Danske Bank, is taking place from 26th to 30th April. The Conference will consider the prospect of business development between Northern Ireland and the EU and features speakers from companies with experience of setting up operations in Portugal, including Belfast and Derry/ Londonderry based regulatory solutions company FinTrU, which has an office in Porto. Speakers at the New Frontiers Conference include Greg Sherwin, Senior Principal of global fashion platform Farfetch; Steven Murtland of FinTrU; Rui Duarte of PwC Portugal; Sharon Farrell of the Ireland Portugal Business Network; Ana Mendes of Turismo de Lisboa; and Geoff Sharpe of Danske Bank. The Conference will explore the new frontiers for business, the drive for innovation and disruption across all sectors and the elements of leadership required to help businesses to thrive. Emma Murray, Chairperson of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing a sell-out audience of business leaders to Lisbon for what will be a fascinating Conference and an important networking opportunity for our members.  “We’ll hear about the business links between our countries and how Northern Ireland businesses are reaching out to do business here in Portugal. Lisbon is as proud of its role in the Age of Discovery, with the city being the starting place for dozens of explorers’ voyages around the world.They were people who weren’t afraid to reach out, try something new, look for something bigger and better. “We want to foster some of that imagination and drive, and to encourage our own businesses at home to explore new frontiers and new opportunities. We also have the prospect to hear first-hand about the current climate for business and investment in the European Union. “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Danske Bank and very thankful for their input in shaping this event. Our partnership with Danske Bank stretches back to 2001, covering conferences in cities such as New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Munich, Toronto, Copenhagen, Barcelona, Boston, Amsterdam and Madrid. It’s a partnership which is integral to the success of our Conferences.” Shaun McAnee, Managing Director of Corporate and Business Banking, Danske Bank, said:  “Danske Bank has had a long association with Chartered Accountants Ulster Society and it’s an important relationship as we work together to support local businesses with their growth ambitions. “The New Frontiers conference will provide a valuable opportunity for networking and gaining insights and inspiration that will benefit our customers, in particular those who are already trading with the EU or keen to explore new trade links.”  

On 20 April the Ulster Society hosted a webinar titled 'Whistleblowing - An Overview & top Tips' with Aisling Byrne from our legal partner, A&L Goodbody. In this webinar Aisling covered: •    A background and overview of the legislative framework •    Definition of a protected disclosure •    Prescribed Persons •    Protection for employees •    Recent whistleblowing cases •    Case studies •    Tips for Employers A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand HERE A pdf copy of Aisling's slides is available HERE  

  •            From 1 April, many NI companies will see their corporation tax bill increase by almost 32%. •            Potential for lower rate of corporation tax in Northern Ireland should not be forgotten. •            Executive must be urgently established to crystallise this opportunity and to harness the benefits of the Windsor Framework for the region and its citizens. The lack of a Northern Ireland Executive is compounding the pressures of increased tax bills and continued high inflation on businesses, according to Chartered Accountants Ireland. The Institute represents over 5,200 members working in businesses and practices across Northern Ireland, more than two thirds of whom work in business. The body made these remarks as the new higher corporation tax rates became operational.  Commenting, Dr Brian Keegan, Director of Public Affairs, Chartered Accountants Ireland said: “From this month, many companies in Northern Ireland are facing a tax bill of 25%, double that of their counterparts in Ireland. Ultimately this means even lower after-tax profits and less cash to invest, drive company growth, and reward employees. “Despite this, Northern Ireland companies have a number of unique opportunities to mitigate against this increase which should not be ignored. The potential for a lower corporation tax rate to match the rate in Ireland is just one opportunity. “A lower rate of corporation tax would put Northern Ireland in a strong position to attract FDI, particularly in the manufacturing and distribution sectors, and would drive investment and expansion by local companies, leading to the creation of more high-value jobs and improved wage offerings.” Last May, the Fiscal Commission’s final report set out the economic benefits to be achieved from a lower rate whilst also recognising the risks and complexities which would need to be managed. Brian Keegan added: “We agree with the Commission’s analysis of these economic benefits which also flagged the constructive engagement required from both the NI Executive and HM Treasury to activate a NI corporation tax rate. “Without an Executive in place, this work simply cannot begin leaving Northern Ireland companies at the mercy of a further squeeze on their cash resources.” Zara Duffy, Head of Northern Ireland at Chartered Accountants Ireland said: “Northern Ireland companies and businesses are already capitalising on their unique access to the EU’s single market for goods under the Protocol. From September this year, improved access to the UK’s internal market will also be available under the Windsor Framework via the new green channel arrangements. “A recent survey of our members identified the Windsor Framework as a significant opportunity for Northern Ireland. Companies need an Executive in place in order to seize this opportunity and ensure that the revised trading arrangements are implemented in a way that supports businesses.” Zara Duffy concluded: "The higher corporation tax bill which many companies are facing is just one of a myriad of issues in the region in dire need of attention. Major challenges in health, education and the economy cannot be addressed unless our Executive gets back to work. The milestone 25th anniversary of the Good Friday / Belfast Agreement should be grasped. Northern Ireland needs its political leaders to  work together for the benefit of the whole region.” Other information:- •            From 1 April 2023, the main rate of corporation tax in the UK increased from 19 percent to 25 percent, for companies with taxable profits of more than £250,000 •            Companies with profits between £50,000 and £250,000 now pay corporation tax at the increased main rate, reduced by a marginal relief, which provides a gradual increase in the effective corporation tax rate; •            The rate remains at 19 percent if taxable profits are £50,000 or less; •            For companies with associates, broadly companies under common control, the £250,000 and £50,000 limits are reduced meaning the higher corporation tax rates are payable on lower levels of taxable profits.

The Chairperson of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society has called for local politicians to restore the Northern Ireland Executive and begin the task of rebuilding the regional economy. Speaking to 400 guests at the Ulster Society’s Annual Dinner, sponsored by Danske Bank and MCS Group tonight (30 March), Emma Murray called for devolution to be restored so that major challenges in health, education and the economy could be addressed. The Society believes real leadership, and a shared vision was required for Northern Ireland to realise its potential. Emma Murray said: “This is the sixth collapse of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Since 1998 we have had almost ten years without a governing Executive. “Three quarters of our members believe that the Northern Ireland economy is either contracting or stagnant. Our members are also seeing an increase in the number of businesses facing financial distress. “The business community wants to help our politicians in the task of rebuilding and resetting our regional economy on an upward trajectory. “We want to see a plan that can transform the economy, fix our health service and fund our schools, colleges and universities. We need the skills to build the economy of the 21st century that we all want to see. “All of us have to make Northern Ireland work. We want to be able to offer our children, and the next generation, political stability, investment, well-paid employment and a society free from violence.” The speech highlighted the recent survey of local chartered accountants which identified the Northern Ireland Protocol, now the Windsor Framework, as a significant opportunity for Northern Ireland. “Our members believe that the Northern Ireland Protocol, now replaced by the Windsor Framework, is a key opportunity for Northern Ireland in the years ahead, potentially providing a unique trading position for businesses here. “There is a balance to be struck. Now is the time to put division behind us and to finally realise our potential.” Providing entertainment for guests at the Ulster Society Annual Dinner were actress, comedian and writer Ruby Wax OBE, The New Brass Kings and the Belfast School of Performing Arts. The Chartered Accountants Ulster Society’s Annual Dinner took place at Titanic Belfast and was attended by 400 members and their business guests.

On 23 March, the Ulster Society hosted the final event in the current 'Inspiring Excellence' series in partnership with Danske Bank. This webinar featured Sinead Donovan and Feargal McCormack, both of whom are recognised as senior leaders within the Chartered Accountancy profession.  In this webinar, Sinead and Feargal will discuss their leadership journeys, their leadership philosophy and the key issues they see facing the accountancy profession and the wider business community.  A recoding of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand HERE

Chartered Accountants identify NI Protocol, now replaced with Windsor Framework, as main opportunity for business  -------------------- Significant increase in perception of number of businesses facing financial distress A survey of chartered accountants in Northern Ireland shows that more than half (54%) believe that prospects for the economy in the year ahead are ‘poor’, with only 7% rating the outlook as ‘good’ or ‘very good’.  Three quarters of those surveyed believe that the Northern Ireland economy is either contracting or stagnant, with only one in four believing the economy is growing at present. A long list of negative influences cited in the survey were headed by political instability and cost of living pressures, with 82% of those surveyed saying that the NI Executive should be restored. The survey from Chartered Accountants Ulster Society also shows a significant rise in the number of Chartered Accountants who feel that the number of businesses in financial distress was increasing (77% in 2023, up from 44% in 2022). Despite a difficult year ahead, respondents identified the Northern Ireland Protocol as the biggest opportunity for Northern Ireland in the years ahead, citing its potential to provide a unique trading position for businesses here. The survey was conducted prior to the publication of the Windsor Framework, which replaces the Northern Ireland Protocol. A low cost base, high skills offering, geographic location, English speaking workforce and the ability to potentially lower corporation tax were also cited as plus points for the local economy in terms of attracting more inward investment. Key Issues The biggest negative issues for the year ahead are ‘rising inflation and squeeze on living standards’ (96%), ‘cutbacks in Government spending’ (95%) and ‘current political conditions in Northern Ireland’ (93%). 75% of those surveyed identified ‘EU Exit’ as a ‘strongly negative’ or ‘negative’ factor on the performance of the local economy.  The survey showed that the rise in the cost of doing business is leading most businesses to absorb the costs, or pass on the price rises to customers, with only 10% having to look towards staffing cuts at present. EU Exit The survey did show some modest positives for business from EU Exit in terms of sales/ turnover growth and export growth outside the UK. However, the predominant impacts for business were negative, particularly in the areas of business costs, purchases from Great Britain, access to EU workers, profits growth and investment plans. A majority of respondents to the survey (78%) held a strong belief that Northern Ireland’s reputation had been damaged by the handling of the EU Exit process. 72% of those surveyed believe that the Northern Ireland Protocol presents an opportunity for Northern Ireland and 76% believe that the Northern Ireland Protocol challenges can be addressed. The Windsor Framework is the most recent attempt to overcome these challenges.  Governance   82% say that the Northern Ireland Executive should be restored, while 69% feel that more powers should be given to Permanent Secretaries within government departments until the Executive is restored. The survey found mixed views on whether there should be further devolution of tax powers in Northern Ireland, with 44% saying ‘yes’ and 40% saying ‘no’.  Corporation Tax was considered the most suitable tax to devolve, followed by short haul Air Passenger Duty and the Apprenticeship Levy. Skills Attracting and retaining people and skills dominate the challenges facing businesses in Northern Ireland, with 85% saying that it was becoming ‘increasingly difficult’ to find the right people for jobs, while 78% felt there was ‘a lack of skilled people to fill new skilled positions in Northern Ireland’. 80% of chartered accountants surveyed are expecting a fall in wages in real terms, with 25% expecting no change in wages or a pay cut this year. The survey shows that most chartered accountants expect hybrid working to continue in the year ahead. Comment Emma Murray, Chairperson of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society which represents over 5,300 Chartered Accountants in Northern Ireland said: “The survey results highlight that chartered accountants are seeing some significant warning signs for the local economy with a period of stagnation and fairly poor prospects ahead. “They are pointing to a long list of negative influences including the current political impasse in Northern Ireland, the squeeze on living standards, cuts in government spending, and the increased cost of doing business, plus the impact of the UK’s exit from the European Union.” “Our members want the Executive to be restored so that we can begin to work together to address these issues for the benefit of everyone in Northern Ireland. “Our survey shows that a majority of businesses believe that the NI Protocol, now the Windsor Framework, with access to both the British and EU markets, presents a significant opportunity for Northern Ireland. “They believe it is vital that we have leadership taking key decisions, encouraging business investment and better public services. The longer that political instability continues, the more difficult it is for local business to contribute to growth, jobs and a better quality of life in Northern Ireland.” Independent economist Maureen O’Reilly, who formulated and analysed the survey of Northern Ireland’s Chartered Accountants said: These findings provide a very valuable insight into the underlying challenges and opportunities for the NI economy from the perspective of chartered accountants at the cold face of doing business across the private, public and third sectors here.   “Their main focus is on the financial health of the businesses and organisations they represent and it is concerning that the share of members who believe that financial distress among businesses is on the increase (77%).  This is the highest share recorded over the last 7 years by a considerable margin.  “Businesses are trying to deal with rising costs by absorbing and/or passing them on through increasing prices while at the same time trying to hold on to staff, a difficult balancing act to juggle that can only last for so long if those inflationary pressures persist.    “The current political and economic environment is extremely difficult which unsurprisingly is dampening the mood around prospects for the year ahead.  However, members do see opportunities going forward and the NI Protocol (and now Windsor Framework) is certainly viewed as the main catalyst to support the region to move on to a stronger growth path.  “Members believe economic success should be measured in terms of higher productivity and higher wage jobs sending a clear message around where policy focus should sit. However, they are largely split on whether the devolution of tax varying powers to Northern Ireland should be pursued, the main concern being the need for much greater political stability before this should be pursued further. It is noteworthy that corporation tax remains the most popular tax to devolve here.”  A summary of key findings: ● 23% felt that the economy was growing; 33% of local Chartered Accountants feel that the local economy is stagnant; 43% believe that the economy is contracting. ● 77% say that the number of businesses in financial distress is increasing. 2% say the number is falling. 16% say the number is unchanged. ● 7% feel the outlook for the NI economy in the year ahead is ‘Good’ or ‘Very Good’; 40% feel the outlook is ‘Fair’; 54% say ‘Poor’ or ‘Very Poor’. ● Rising inflation and squeeze on living standards (96%), Cutbacks in Government spending (95%) and current political conditions in Northern Ireland (93%) are seen as the most negative issues for the economy. ● 72% of those surveyed believe that the NI Protocol presents an opportunity for Northern Ireland. 76% believe that the NI Protocol challenges can be addressed. ● 85% say their business or organisation is experiencing skills shortages (up from 62% in 2022) ● 82% want the NI Executive to be restored. ● 69% feel that more powers should be given to Permanent Secretaries within government departments until the Executive is restored. ● 254 Chartered Accountants took part in the survey.  

On 21 March, the Ulster Society hosted the first in a series of financial wellbeing webinars in partnership with Evelyn Partners, aimed at helping members to boost both their advisory capabilities and their own personal financial wellbeing. This first webinar focused on top tips surrounding pensions and includes technical training and a practical case study session delivered by Bertrand Pole, Pensions Technical Specialist, Alison Dean, Chartered Financial Planner and hosted by Aaron Carey, Investment Manager at Evelyn Partners. The session highlights five key areas that accountants should be aware of when it comes to pensions, including tax relief, tapering for high-earners, working with business owners, age 75 crystallisation events and death benefits. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE A pdf copy of the presentation used in this webinar is available to view HERE  

On 9 March the Ulster Society's Public Sector sub-committee hosted a webinar providing an overview of Better Business Cases NI and the Five Case Model approach to developing business cases. In this webinar, Leah Montgomery, Department of Health, talked about the process of embedding Better Business Cases NI into the business case process across the DoH and its 16 arms length bodies. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE A copy of Leah's slides are available HERE

On Monday 6 March the Ulster Society, in partnership with Hays Recruitment, hosted a webinar looking at the key issues affecting Finance Directors in the year ahead, as well as assessing both the skillset and mindset required for those taking on the FD role. Our guest speaker for this event was James Musgrave, Hays UK & Ireland Divisional Financial Director. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand HERE A pdf copy of James' slides is available HERE

On 2 March the Ulster Society held the latest webinar in the popular series - Inspiring Excellence in partnership with Danske Bank. In this webinar, John Healy OBE discussed his leadership journey in conversation with Andrew Toogood, using his career and 8 leadership lessons he has learned along the way. John is a highly experienced senior executive with 30 years of experience in Information Technology mostly gained in the financial service industry, primarily in banking and insurance. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand HERE  

On 23 February, David Rowan and Anna Cartwright from the Ulster Society's legal partner, A&L Goodbody, discussed recent developments and trends in the area of directors' duties and provided members with an update on other key legal areas which directors should be considering.  A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand HERE A pdf copy of the slides used in this presentation are available HERE

On 9 February the Ulster Society hosted a webinar titled 'Delivering Transformation in the Public Sector – Setting up for Success' In this lunchtime webinar, Paul Duffy, Deputy Secretary at the Department of Finance outlined his approach in leading transformation programmes, drawing on his experience and learning as a Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) for a number of projects. A recording of this webinar is available for members to view for free and on demand HERE A pdf copy of Paul's slides is available to view HERE