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In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook podcast, Thelma O'Driscoll, CFO of the IRFU joins host Jonathan Healy to talk about her diverse career path, her passion for growing male and female rugby from the grassroots up, and how the role of CFO enables her to create a strong and sustainable financial foundation for the game.Thelma O'Driscoll's journey into the rugby world was not a direct one. Starting out in the family business, Thelma went on to work in various finance functions across computer manufacturing (Dell), telecommunications, and professional services. This diverse financial background has proven to be a solid foundation for her current role as CFO of the IRFU. And diversity has been a strong theme during Thelma's time in the male-dominated world of professional rugby. Having been the only female around the leadership table when she first joined in 2016, the organisation has since made huge strides, with 40% of the IRFU Union Committee now comprising female colleagues. Thelma is also very passionate about growing women's rugby and increasing investment in it. They also discuss:Financial Strategy - The IRFU is a not-for-profit organisation, meaning all revenue is reinvested into the game. Over half of the IRFU's €90m income is distributed to provinces, clubs and grassroots rugby.Challenges in Sports Finance - The IRFU's income varies in cycles, and careful management keeps national teams and grassroots rugby stable. Thelma explains why tough decisions are needed to invest wisely and control spending in order to maintain sustainability.Growing Women's Rugby - Women's rugby is experiencing rapid growth and the IRFU are committed to grow the game further and increase investment. This strategic plan includes decentralising the current model and moving to four contracted provincial women's teams. New sponsors like Goodfella's Pizza are investing in women's rugby, with more to come.The Future of Irish Rugby - At the moment Ireland is at the pinnacle of world rugby, but sustaining its position requires careful financial planning. With a debt-free model, Thelma's goal is to strengthen its finances with modern systems to support all levels of Irish rugby.
Most of the country is still feeling the effects of Storm Éowyn and its accompanied red weather warning. You can expect more winds this evening as it continues to move…So, how have you been affected, and what are the latest updates?Guest host Jonathan Healy is joined by Aoife Keely from Met Éireann, Siobhán Wynne, ESB Networks Regional Manager, Newstalk's Henry McKean as well as listeners around the country.
From a crazy Carrauntoohil hike to ‘smart' benches, Breakfast Briefing Presenter Shane Beatty joins guest host Jonathan Healy with plenty of stories from around the country this week!
Gillian O'Gorman is making a plea for help as her 83-year-old father has been stuck in University Hospital Limerick since October 23rd. He has stopped receiving rehabilitation treatment, but still cannot leave.Gillian joins guest host Jonathan Healy to explain the situation.
For this week's Ask the Expert, Peter Cosgrove, Managing Director of Futurewise, joins guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss how you can negotiate for a pay rise in your job.
Following a conversation on the Pat Kenny Show last week on the European Commission tightening restrictions on Retinol, influencer Holly Carpenter hit back at host Jonathan Healy for saying that we were being “influenced by eejits”.So, what kind of advertising standards do influencers have? Joining Kieran to discuss is Holly Carpenter, Social Media Content Creator and Alexandra Ryan, CEO of Goss.ie.
Paul Howard, Journalist, Author and Comedy Writer joins Jonathan Healy this week to put his favourite book on The Hard Shoulder's Bookshelf!Favourite Book: Trainspotting – Irving WelshHonorable Mention:Me Cheeta: The Autobiography - James LeverCurrently Reading:Our London Lives by Our London Lives by Christine Dwyer Hickey
Google has released their ‘Year in Search' for 2024 – which brings together data from every user to find out what the biggest topics were on the minds of the public. Joining guest host Jonathan Healy to go through the hottest searches of the year is Joe O'Shea, Editor of Cork Beo and Esther McCarthy, Lifestyle Editor and Weekend Magazine Columnist at the Irish Examiner.
Newly elected Social Democrats TD Eoin Hayes has confirmed this afternoon that his shares in Palantir were only sold in July of this year - contrary to what he had said in his Dublin City Council ethics disclosure…The shares were worth almost €200k.He has been suspended from the Social Democrats parliamentary party.For more on this story, guest host Jonathan Healy is joined by Craig Hughes, Political Editor at the Irish Daily Mail.
Dr Ronan Glynn, the former Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Ireland, and current Health Sector Lead at EY Ireland, was writing in the Irish times about the healthcare debates taking place across the country, and believes we are too focused on the wrong things.The problem solving within the HSE is for immediate issues, rather than long term problems…Ronan joins guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss.
The mother of two boys who are being held in by their father in Egypt is pleading with An Taoiseach Simon Harris to bring her case up to the Egyptian President during his state visit this week…Mother Mandy Kelly joins Jonathan Healy to discuss.
Aisling Kenny, CFO of SMBC Aviation Capital, has built a notable career in the aviation leasing sector. She started her career at EY, where she was involved in auditing various clients, including banks and leasing companies. She joined SMBC Aviation Capital (then RBS Aviation Capital) in 2012, initially as manager and head of finance. In 2022, she became the CFO. Ireland has established itself as a global centre for aircraft leasing with over 60% of the world's leased aircraft managed from Ireland. Aisling discusses how Ireland became a hub for aircraft leasing and the growth of SMBC Aviation Capital, which now owns and manages over 1,000 aircraft, “every minute of the day, one aircraft takes off or lands around the world in our portfolio”. In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook podcast, Aisling Kenny, CFO of SMBC Aviation Capital joins host Jonathan Healy to talk about her career journey, the challenges and opportunities in the aviation leasing industry, and the sector's focus on sustainability and innovation.They also discuss:Challenges in Aviation Leasing: Despite disruptions like COVID-19 and the war in Russia, SMBC Aviation Capital has grown by focusing on high-demand aircraft and diversifying its portfolio. Sustainability in Aviation: Aisling highlights the need for fuel-efficient aircraft and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to cut emissions, though capital investment may be required. Cultural Collaboration: Aisling speaks about the shared values of Ireland and Japan, with both being outward-looking and respectful of tradition, while striving for future growth. The Future of Aviation Leasing: Leased aircraft now make up 60%. Aisling predicts industry consolidation, with larger lessors leading. Graduate programs and apprenticeships are key to sustaining growth.
Kate English from Deloitte goes through the main business stories along with Jonathan Healy.
In another example of government overspending, the infamous Leeside trees cost €300,000 to install, and around €15,000 a year to maintain.Is it time to get rid of them?Joining guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss is Fianna Fáil Councillor for Cork City North-West, John Sheehan and Labour Councillor for Cork South-Central, Cork City South East, Peter Horgan.
Taoiseach Simon Harris has said he is sticking to the commitment he made when he took office that the Government would complete its full term.But, do we believe him? Will the Dáil reach full term?Joining guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss is John Lee, Executive Editor Daily Mail Group Ireland and Paul Hosford, Deputy Political Editor with the Irish Examiner.
Figures released this week show that classrooms were overcrowded, despite pupil numbers falling.Some parents who have found themselves in a supersized class of 37 is Fiachna Ó Braonáin, Musician, Broadcaster Founding member of ‘The Hothouse Flowers'.He, alongside his partner Siona Ó Braonáin and Contributor to the Irish Independent John Walsh join guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) have announced they are launching an investigation into Ticketmaster Ireland and their handling of the Oasis ticket sales...Joining guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss is Sinead Ryan, Columnist Columnist and Presenter of The Home Show on Newstalk.
Is the use of regional airports the most logical approach to relieving the passenger cap in Dublin airport?Guest host Jonathan Healy is joined by Dee Ryan, former CEO of Limerick Chamber and member of the Government's Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce.
As the show is in Cork today, it only seemed right to look at a special part of its culture, spiced beef! Guest host Jonathan Healy is joined by Tom Durcan, of Tom Durcan Meats in Cork's English Market to discuss what makes the beef so special, and what you can have it with.Image: Tom Durcan Meats
Tomorrow, Ireland faces England in the Nations League game at the Aviva Stadium, but do we care about English Irish rivalry? And, should we?Guest host Jonathan Healy is joined by Barbara McCarthy, Journalist and football enthusiast and Ronan Mc Greevey, Irish Times Journalist and co-author of ‘The Kidnapping' to discuss.
This week guest host Jonathan Healy was joined by Esther McCarthy, LifeStyle Editor at the Irish Examiner and Joe O'Shea, Editor of CorkBeo.ie to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…
When Paul Stapleton joined ESB over 33 years ago, it was a very different organisation to the one it is today. In the three decades since, Paul has held ten different roles within the company and has watched first-hand the transformation of its structure, mandate, and the nature of the role it plays in Ireland's economy and society. Since its foundation, ESB has been critical to the running of households, businesses, and industry across Ireland. As such, it is one of the country's best-known brands and has been trusted by customers to “keep the lights” on throughout harsh weather and difficult economic times. For Paul, ESB's role now extends to being a leader in Ireland's transition to green energy, and every strategic decision the company makes today is geared towards delivering net zero carbon energy by 2040. In this episode of The EY Podcast: CFO Outlook series, Paul Stapleton, CFO of ESB, tells host Jonathan Healy the fascinating story of his 33-year career in one of Ireland's best-known companies, what he has learned from the ten leadership positions he has held along the way, and the role that ESB is now playing in a greener future. They also discuss:· ESB's evolution over the last three decades and the key milestones along the way· How the company navigated the challenges both of the Celtic Tiger and economic recession and the role he played during those times. · ESB's strong customer and public service ethos and how it has helped it successfully transition through new structures and identities. · The role of green bonds in financing renewable energy projects and the importance of collaboration with private investors and other industry players to achieve these goals.· The advice he would give to his 18-yr old self
Every week on the show we look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…This week stand in presenter Jonathan Healy was joined by Esther McCarthy, Life Style Editor at the Irish Examiner and by Joe O'Shea Editor of CorkBeo.ie.
A man was arrested this morning suspected of ramming a van into the gates of multiple State and Government buildings in Dublin. So should this be sounding alarm bells about how secure our government is.Tom Clonan Trinity Senator and Security Analyst spoke to Stand in presenter, Jonathan Healy about this.
Cork Chamber has today reiterated its calls for a LUAS-style light rail to be introduced in the southern capital Dan Boyle, Lord Mayor of Cork spoke to Jonathan Healy about this..
The Body Worn Cameras proof of concept was launched in Limerick by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris earlier today and Minister for Justice Helen Mcentee spoke to Jonathan Healy on the Hard Shoulder today.
Today Ireland's first Velodrome got the green light for construction. So is continued investment the best way to silverware and are we investing enough? Stand in presenter, Jonathan Healy was joined by Una May, Chief Executive Of Sports Ireland , Kieran Cunningham, Chief Sports Writer with Irish Daily Star and by Colin Lowth, Former Olympic butterfly swimmer for Ireland to discuss this more ...
As I sat across from Coach Gianni Giambi, the mastermind behind the AAU TOPS program, his passion for the transformative power of Taekwondo was palpable. His journey from a second-generation martial artist to nurturing future Olympians is the kind of story that can ignite a fire in the heart of any aspiring athlete. In our conversation, we uncover the philosophy that drives the success of the TOPS program, explore the delicate dynamics of the coach-athlete relationship, and celebrate the blend of tradition and innovation in martial arts training. Coach Giambi's insights into coaching tactics that lead to excellence, the discipline instilled by a well-structured hierarchy, and the comprehensive preparation for high-level competition were nothing short of enlightening.The conversation took an inspiring turn as we discussed how Taekwondo extends its influence far beyond the competitive arena, instilling valuable life skills and community spirit in its practitioners. We shared the incredible journey of Olympic athlete Jonathan Healy, whose rise from local competitions to the Olympic stage serves as a testament to the potential hidden in grassroots programs like the one led by Giambi. Moreover, we delved into the importance of athletes giving back and the role sports can play in shaping responsible leaders and active community members. The initiatives driven by our nonprofit G-Force Achieve, including environmental and humanitarian efforts, highlight how these athletes are already making an impact in the world.Wrapping up this episode, we took a moment to appreciate the role that Coach Giambi and others play in promoting the growth and development of Taekwondo, ensuring the sport's vitality for generations to come. Our discussion ventured into the future of Taekwondo, the enthusiasm for the upcoming TOPS program camp in Miami, and the intrinsic value of the life skills imparted by martial arts, regardless of achieving Olympian status. Coach Giambi's unwavering dedication to his athletes and the martial arts community not only honors the legacy of Taekwondo but also lays the foundation for an even brighter future for the sport. Join us as we celebrate the accomplishments and aspirations of those who live and breathe this ancient yet ever-evolving discipline.
This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder's catch-up on the day's news.Today, guest host Jonathan Healy was joined by Senior Reporter with the Irish Examiner, Liz Dunphy and Presenter of The Neil Prendeville Show on Red FM, Neil Prendeville.
This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder's catch-up on the day's news. Today, guest host Jonathan Healy was joined by Brian Mahon, Political Correspondent with the Irish Daily Mail and Sinead Ryan, Consumer Columnist with the Irish Independent and the Presenter of The Home Show at Newstalk.
Unless you've been living under a rock, you will have heard all about Kate Middleton's photoshop gate. What makes the situation worse, is how badly it's been handled by Kensington Palace's PR team. So what is the correct what to handle a PR crisis?Jonathan Healy is the Founder of Healy Communications and joined Sean to discuss...
Ten minutes into the first job interview, Wendy Chang Smith knew that Glanbia was the right fit for her. As someone for whom company culture, values and learning experiences are paramount, Wendy was bowled over by the “wisdom and experience” of the two colleagues on the panel and felt like she had known them for years – “ I was sold, I was ready to join this company.”But the idea of taking on the role of CFO of Glanbia Performance Nutrition was also very compelling from a business perspective. The company's main brand, Optimum Nutrition, has been around for over 35 years, is sold in more than 90 countries, and recently became Glanbia's first billion-dollar brand. Yet despite being the world's number one sports nutrition brand, its growth potential in major markets like the US is very significant, and this was a challenge that excited Wendy.In this episode of The EY Podcast: CFO Outlook Podcast, Wendy Chang Smith, CFO of Glanbia Performance Nutrition, joins Jonathan Healy to talk about working in some of the world's biggest multinationals, her vision for the future of sports nutrition, and why company culture is so important to her. They also discuss:· The three qualities of a highly effective business strategy· Why she believes that risk-taking is important for generating additional value for the company· Wendy's role as global sponsor for the Glanbia Women's ERG and why Diversity and Inclusion is so important to her· Glanbia's investment globally in Research & Development· Wendy's time working in with major multinationals including Amazon, Johnson and Johnson, Procter and Gamble, and Kellogg's.· Adapting to Irish weather and culture, and why an encounter with a dead jellyfish made Wendy and her family realise that moving to Ireland was the right decision !
The UK government has said that it "profoundly regrets" a decision by the Government to legally challenge the Northern Ireland Legacy Act. Dominic Grieve, Former UK Attorney General and Conservative MP joined Jonathan Healy on the show.
Flu, RSV and overcrowding - what does the rest of the winter hold for our hospitals? Dr. Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer with the HSE joined Jonathan Healy on the show...
Broadcaster and keen shopper Jonathan Healy was having a bit of a cleanout this weekend and found something with value! He's been on a mission to validate it and joined us to give us an update.Consumer Affairs Correspondent for The Irish Times Connor Pope also joined Kieran Cuddihy on the show this evening.
In this episode of the EY CFO Outlook podcast, Tom Hickey of mining company Kenmare Resources chats to host Jonathan Healy about becoming a CFO at the young age of 31, the importance of storytelling in business, his love of the natural resources sector and how ESG is at the heart of Kenmare's operations in Mozambique.
The news broke yesterday evening of the tragic passing of Irish singing legend, Sinead O'Connor, at the age of 56. Mary Byrne, Singer, and TV Presenter joined Jonathan Healy on the show with her reaction to the news.
Ireland's hopes of qualifying for the last 16 of the World Cup ended with a 2-1 defeat to Canada in Perth yesterday. While supporters came out in droves down under, was there enough hype for the girls in green on home soil? Paula Gorham, from First Pro Irish Women's Football Team, 1973 joined Jonathan Healy on the show this morning.
Over 11,500 frontline gardaí are to be balloted on a vote of no confidence in Garda Commissioner Drew Harris as part of a deepening row over rosters. Brendan O'Connor, President of the GRA joined Jonathan Healy on the show this morning.
The people of Limerick are to have an opportunity to vote for the person they want to be the city's first directly-elected mayor next June, under plans approved by the Cabinet on yesterday. John Moran, Chair of Liveable Limerick and expert witness on this legislation for the joint Oireachtas committee on housing and local government joined Jonathan Healy on the show.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has promised energy supports for households and businesses as part of a cost-of-living package to be announced in October's Budget. Muireann Lynch, Energy Economist at the ESRI joined Jonathan Healy on the show this morning.
Bars of gold with the estimated value of €400,000 were located by Gardaí yesterday afternoon after being reported missing by the leader of the far-right National Party, Justin Barrett. Paul Hosford, Political Correspondent with the Irish Examiner joined Jonathan Healy on the show.
“With just a few words, we're perceived as posh or common, classy or cheap...Having a so-called “wrong accent” can be bad for your health – especially when it comes to climbing the slippery career ladder.” So writes John Daly in the Irish Independent. Dr Stephen Lucek, Assistant Professor in Linguistics in UCD joined Jonathan Healy to discuss.
Waiting lists for Gaeltacht courses are growing as interest in speaking Irish surges. Julian De Spainn, General Secretary of Conradh Na Gaeillge spoke to Jonathan Healy this morning with more on this.
The number of breaches of domestic violence court orders reported to An Garda Siochana rose by over 50% over a four-year period leading up to 2021. That's according to new figures released to Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd who joined Jonathan Healy on the show this morning.
The Coronation of King Charles III will take place this Saturday, May 13th in London. Jonathan Healy was joined by Sinead Ryan, Presenter of the Home Show and Royal expert and Enda Brady, London based journalist
Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Jonathan Healy again for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they're filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week Simon and Jonathan are looking at the beloved marmalade...
In the UK George Osbourne, the former Chancellor and pioneer of the sugar tax has stated that orange juice should be included under their taxation. In Ireland, sugar tax legislation only includes water based sugary drinks. It doesn't include orange juice citing its nutritional value but is it really that healthy and should it be taxed? Jonathan Healy was joined by Dr Eva Orsmond , Specialist in Weightloss and obesity and Founder of Dr Eva's clinics in Dublin and Galway...
Trinity College professor Brian Caulfield told Pat Kenny earlier today that SUVs should be phased out - because the gains we're making in electric vehicle sales aren't doing enough. Do we need to push to get these vehicles off the road? Jonathan Healy was joined by Green Party Councillor for North Dublin Inner City, Janet Horner and Cork City Councillor Ken O'Flynn...
Trinity College professor Brian Caulfield told Pat Kenny earlier today that SUVs should be phased out - because the gains we're making in electric vehicle sales aren't doing enough. Do we need to push to get these vehicles off the road? Jonathan Healy was joined by parenting expert, Laura Erskine and Tony Lowes, from Friends of the Irish Environment to discuss...