Directors and Business Leaders Gather for IoD State Body Governance Event

Caroline Spillane CDir, Chief Executive Officer of IoD Ireland, kicked off the event with a warm welcome, highlighting the theme, "State Body Governance." The event featured an expert panel of speakers with extensive experience in State Bodies, including roles as Chairs, Department Secretary Generals, and advisors.

In his address, Tom O'Brien, Managing Partner at Forvis Mazars, outlined the objective of the IoD Briefing Series: Designed for Directors, which provides members with invaluable insights on governance, leadership, and strategy. He also expressed his pleasure in partnering with IoD Ireland on this series and referred to the comprehensive Handbook on State Body Governance, developed in collaboration between IoD Ireland and Forvis Mazars, noting that "there was one for everyone in the audience."

The panel discussion featured a distinguished group of experts with hands-on experience in State Body governance. The panelists included: Dr. Orlaigh Quinn, Independent Non-Executive Director and former Secretary General at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment; Dr. Pat O'Mahoney CDir, Chair of HIQA; Jim Breslin, Chair, Non-Executive Director, and former Secretary General; and Corné Mouton, Partner at Forvis Mazars. Caroline Spillane CDir, CEO of IoD Ireland, moderated the session.

Key topics discussed included the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies (the Code), the structure and composition of State Bodies, the roles and responsibilities of State Board members, accountability—including the role of Oireachtas Committees—state board recruitment, and the importance of continuous learning and education.

A focal point of the discussion was the interpretation of the Code, with an emphasis on tailoring it to each State Body’s unique context, such as its public value, legitimacy, and operational capacity. The panel acknowledged the positive impact the Code has had on professionalising State Body governance, though they noted that revisions may be needed. At the core of the conversation was the reminder to keep key stakeholders in mind, i.e. the public, and to keep in mind that public funds are being used by State Bodies.

The recruitment process for State Bodies was another central theme. Panellists offered advice on navigating the application process, such as registering for updates on the Public Jobs website, carefully reviewing application booklets to fully understand requirements, and ensuring candidates refine their CVs and application forms. The panel also discussed the rewarding nature of State Body roles, which offer substantial professional development opportunities.

The discussion concluded with an emphasis on the importance of ongoing learning and education. It was highlighted that directors and State Board Members must stay current with key legislative and regulatory changes. IoD Ireland remains committed to supporting members and boards through various learning and education initiatives, including bespoke board training and individual development opportunities.

The event also featured an engaging Q&A session with members, many of whom were involved with State Bodies.

Caroline Spillane CDir wrapped up the event with a closing address, highlighting a range of resources designed to support attendees in their professional development. These included our upcoming dedicated workshop, State Body Governance and our next Briefing event, Future of Board Skills and Succession Planning. 

This exclusive event on State Body Governance was open to all IoD Ireland members, offering a unique opportunity for Ireland's top directors to gain invaluable insights from some of the most experienced figures in corporate governance.

The IoD Briefing Series: Designed for Directors provides members with invaluable insights on governance, leadership, and strategy. It features a line-up of experts and thought leaders sharing their insights and perspectives. IoD Ireland is delighted to be working with Forvis Mazars to bring this key event series to our members. We would like to acknowledge the Forvis Mazars team for their support.