Sparking Growth 12 - 14 October 2016 - Business & Investment Conference - Belfast International ...
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Sparking
Growth
Business & Investment
Conference
12 - 14 October 2016
www.belfasthomecoming.com
& PA R T N E R S
In association with
Human Rights Lawyers, Solicitor Advocates | Belfast
Welcome to our city
s Lord Mayor of Belfast, I am delighted all, energy. A great city held back for too long,
A that you have been able to join us as
part of the third annual Belfast
International Homecoming. The conference
today we are ready for investment, ready for
visitors and ready for fresh challenges to
promote ourselves on the international stage
will be addressed by over 40 local and and to do business with you.
international speakers and will be touching Over the course of the three-day
on three key themes: the physical Homecoming programme, we are excited to
development of the city; promoting offer you a wide variety of platforms to hear
entrepreneurship; and attracting and keeping about opportunities for collaboration with
talent. your sector, be they in education,
On behalf of Belfast City Council and our government, law, creative industries or
city partners, I welcome you and appreciate regeneration.
that you have taken the time out of busy Together as partners, we have considered
schedules and travelled to spend this week how to better engage with you, year on year
with us. I know some of our guests from past and to create conversations around specific
visits to Belfast and from our many business, opportunities for working together for mutual
tourism, cultural and education linkages with benefit, and I look forward to having these
the USA, Europe and beyond. discussions
As First Citizen, I believe that this is a very
exciting time for our city. Belfast today is full The Lord Mayor of Belfast,
of ambition, optimism, opportunity and above Alderman Brian Kingston
A celebration of potential
Ulster Bank sees every day through major entertainment venue, businesses there.
the lens of our customers. restaurants and tourist attractions. But they also leave inspired by the
As the CEO and chair of Gallup, Jim It is a warm and welcoming city sheer guts of the entrepreneurs who
Clifton observed recently, “Ultimately, with a vibrant arts and culinary scene, are willing to step out of their comfort
the war for jobs and sudden economic as the tourists who flock to the Titanic zones to achieve their full potential.
growth will be fought city by city Quarter and Cathedral Quarter can That sense of potential is the reason
around the world - San Francisco vs. testify. why Ulster Bank is delighted to be the
Seoul, Brooklyn vs. Berlin, Cleveland And as Belfast develops, Ulster principal sponsor of the Belfast
vs. Cologne. Bank is proud to play its part in the International Homecoming 2016.
“Each city needs its own highly emergence of a more globally Every year, the Homecoming
individualised plan because each city connected, multicultural and provides an opportunity for people in
has its own unique entrepreneurial entrepreneurial city. We do this the city to focus on the vision for
talent - and each must find it, through investment – not just in Belfast and how we are progressing.
maximize it and retain it.” business ventures or sponsorship of But it has also become an excellent
It is against this backdrop that sport, arts and culture but by showcase for a range of exhilarating
Belfast is emerging as a city with nurturing entrepreneurial talent. initiatives in the city – highlighting
plenty to offer the world. In February this year, Ulster Bank emerging businesses, ingenuity in the
Belfast is a city of enterprise, teamed up with the Scottish social cultural and hospitality sectors,
wo years ago the World Health
T
attracting significant investment from enterprise Entrepreneurial Spark to educational programmes and major
Organisation reported that a multinational firms while at the same bring the world’s largest free growth development projects.
majority of the world’s time nurturing exciting indigenous accelerator into the heart of Belfast. The Homecoming draws on the
population, 54 per cent, are living in businesses in sectors like digital Around 140 businesses from a strengths of Belfast’s global contacts
urban areas. This was up from 34 per media, fintech, food and drink, range of backgrounds have come and the role our friends and
cent in 1960. cybersecurity, manufacturing and through the doors of the ambassadors abroad can play to help
In less developed nations, it is connected health. Entrepreneurial Spark hatchery, to Belfast achieve its potential.
estimated a majority of people will live The city’s higher and further avail of a free workspace but, more But we are also mindful that the
in cities as the global urban education institutions boast cutting importantly, a wealth of expertise to relationship is two-way. Belfast has a
population grows approximately 1.84 edge research and innovation and are help them focus on their business role to play to help the world address
per cent each year between 2015 and developing an educated and highly model and leverage in investment. its needs.
2020. skilled workforce eager to meet the Mentors from the business So, welcome to this celebration of
This demographic shift has meant challenges of a rapidly changing community, Entrepreneurial Spark Belfast’s potential. We look forward to
cities are effectively competing with economy. and Ulster Bank have helped firms engaging with you because as Belfast
each other to attract the best Belfast is undergoing significant rigorously test their business prospers, everybody prospers.
business, academic and cultural physical transformation, with the proposition and figure out how they
talent. former shipyard now housing can grow their businesses. Dan McGinn
And that competition is not simply skyscrapers occupied by Visitors to the hatchery over the Corporate Affairs &
between cities in their own country multinational firms, a further past nine months have been struck by Communications Manager,
but across the world – something education college, a film studio, a the creativity and energy of the Ulster Bank NI
PAGE 2 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 3
Tourism’s central role in this city on the rise
he economic, social and cultural business sectors and industries are
T face of Belfast has changed
beyond recognition in recent years
and, as Chair of Visit Belfast, I am
now leading the way in terms of
innovation and creativity on a global
scale, home to strong software,
proud to see tourism take a central role financial services and telecoms sectors
in helping make the city the dynamic but is also embracing new sectors of
and vibrant place to visit, live and excellence in areas such as the creative
invest. industries and advanced engineering.
Belfast is now firmly placed on the With a strong track record of
tourism map – for both leisure and foreign direct investment, Belfast is
business visitors – and the growth we well-placed to succeed as an
have seen in the industry has only been increasingly competitive city at the
achievable through partnership heart of a thriving region.
working between local and central Belfast has come a long way. Our
government, and importantly, the journey as a city has not always been
private sector. straightforward, but our shared
We have seen growing confidence determination to welcome the world
in investing in our tourism product and in turn make the world welcome,
giving us a truly world-class offering. has allowed us to develop and
But don’t just take it from me: only last transform our home in the eyes of the
month Titanic Belfast was voted world into a city that is a warm and
Europe’s leading visitor attraction at welcoming place that can deliver
the World Travel Awards and earlier this memorable experiences and lasting
year Belfast was voted 2016’s best UK relationships. Our potential is limited
city break destination by Guardian and only by our ambition.
Observer readers. I hope that during Belfast International Homecoming
the conference you will get the chance provides another great opportunity for
to see and enjoy some of our best us to welcome the world to Belfast, and
attractions and experiences for build on our current momentum,
yourself. showing that this truly is a city on the
Tourism is one of many sectors in rise.
Belfast that have flourished in recent Howard Hastings
years. The city is home to some 9,000 Chair, Visit Belfast
business which in turn support and Host of The Belfast
hundreds of thousands of jobs. Our International Homecoming
RICS - Raising and enforcing
global valuation standards
Without the considerable contribution from surveyors, our skylines
would look very different. Regarded as one of the most important
professions in the world, with 17 specialisms it’s also one of the
most diverse. You’ll be surprised just how much input surveyors have
in shaping the world in which we live. From project managing the
construction of the world’s tallest buildings to environmental impact
assessment; from valuing art, to measuring the sea bed; there really
is something for everyone.
RICS is the world’s leading qualification when it comes to professional
standards in land, property and construction. As well as a recognised
mark of professionalism, becoming chartered provides a gateway to
job and career opportunities globally.
For further information contact us at rics.org
PAGE 4 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016
Honourary Chairs
Andrew Cowan, CEO, Aine Brolly, CEO CPL Alastair Adair, Carol Fitzsimons, Peter McKittrick, Philip Cassidy,
NI Connections Pro Vice Chancellor of CEO Young Enterprise US Consulate SVP Concentrix
Development at Ulster
University
Chris Lyttle, MLA Colin Anderson OBE, Dan McGinn, Geraldine Hughes, Steve Lenox, Steve Orr,
CEO ASG Group Corporate Affairs and Actress President Irish Director, NISP
Communications Network USA
Manager, Ulster Bank
Harry Connolly, Jack Butler, Jackie Henry, Jayne Brady, Tom McCusker, MD Paul McErlean,
Executive Director COO Market Resource Senior Partner Partner Kernel Capital Tennents NI CEO MCE PR
Fáilte Feirste Thiar Partners Deloitte
Jim Clerkin, John Donovan, Chair John O’Donoghue, John J. Reilly, Sammy Douglas, MLA Shaun T. Kelly, Director
President and CEO Boston-Belfast Sister Investor, New York Partner Squire Patton New York Irish Arts
Moët Hennessey USA City Board, Boston Boggs New York Center, Director
American Ireland Fund
Judith Totten, MD Marcus Robinson, Artist Mary McKenna, Tech Rep Mike Cusick, Suzanne Aquino, Terence Brannigan,
‘Upstream’ Working Entrepreneur & Angel New York State Global Category Head — Chair Tourism NI
Capital Investor, lONDON IIBN Assembly Professional Services
Chain IQ, New York.
Assemblyman Niall Murphy, Paul Maskey, MP
Mike Fitzpatrick, Partner, KRW Law for West Belfast
New York State
Assembly BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 5
Resurgent, reimagined, re-energised and ready
here has never been a time when home to two leading universities, along
T Belfast’s diaspora could have had
more reason to be proud of their
roots. So whether you are returning,
with Belfast Metropolitan College, one of
the largest further and higher education
colleges in the UK. Queen’s University
visiting for the first time, or live and work Belfast is ranked in the top one per cent of
here – there is so much to be proud of just universities worldwide and it is a member
now. of the prestigious Russell Group of 24
Belfast is a transformed city. It is full research intensive universities, while last
of ambition, optimism and - above all - year Ulster University was ranked in the
energy. And coming from good Belfast top 100 universities under 50 years old by
stock, you will no doubt endorse the view the Times Higher Education Supplement.
that our ultimate and unlimited resource Belfast is one of the most value-
is the hard work, enthusiasm and warmth competitive locations in the UK and
of our people. Ireland. Over 800 global companies
A city on the rise, we are proud of our already benefit from our extremely
ever expanding global outlook which productive workforce. Companies like
boasts a young, talented workforce and a Allstate, Liberty IT and Chicago Mercantile
thriving cultural scene. And, thanks to our all have hubs here. We have been named
blossoming tourism industry, more the world’s most ‘Business Friendly City’
visitors than ever enjoy what Belfast has of its size by the fDi intelligence division of
to offer. This year we had 84 cruise ships the Financial Times.
visit the city and Titanic Belfast has just We have also invested heavily in our
been named Europe’s leading visitor digital infrastructure in recent years and
attraction at the prestigious World Travel have the highest density of fibre in Europe
Awards. alongside the best availability of superfast
We have invested billions in broadband in the UK. We also have great
regenerating the city and that is transport links with Europe and the rest
continuing alongside the private sector. of the world, with two airports within 30
You will see cranes in the sky building minutes of the city centre and Dublin
new offices, hotels, student housing and a Airport just 90 minutes by road.
new university campus. We have just Belfast is now looking forward and
opened the doors to a new convention outward. It is a city resurgent, reimagined
centre and have flourishing fintech, ICT, and re-energised. We are ready for
legal and cyber security clusters to name investment, for visitors and ready for fresh
but a few. Ours is a talented, competitive challenges. I hope you are ready for
and connected city with determined Belfast!
leaders hungry to attract more investors,
students and visitors. Suzanne Wylie,
We have one of the youngest and Chief Executive of
most gifted populations in Europe with an Belfast City Council
outstanding education system. The city is
Sun rises on new era in
Pamplona-Iruñea
ayor Joseba Asirón of Pamplona- by Ernest Hemingway in ‘The Sun Also Rises’.
M Iruñea is the first Basque-speaking
mayor of the largest city in the
province of Navarre, considered a part of the
Pamplona boasts two college powerhouses,
the Public University of Navarre and the
University of Navarre, the latter founded by
Basque Country, but enjoying autonomous Opus Dei and ranked as the best private
government from Madrid. A former teacher, university in the Spanish State. In recent
the Mayor is the first representative of the years, the city’s compelling tourism
Basque independence left party EH-Bildu to proposition as the one-time capital of the
hold the prestigious office in a city famed for Kingdom of Navarre, has been augmented by
the annual San Fermín festival and its a growing industrial base, exemplified by its
highlight the Running of the Bulls. The July state-of-the-art Volkswagen factory producing
festival of San Fermín — a saint who never the Polo model for all of Europe.
existed — and its host city was made famous
PAGE 6 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 7
Social capital crucial to realising city’s goals
Inspiring and supporting young businesses into the untapped social capital - people - to
Behind my decision to create Macklin Enterprise benefit those who use the outputs of development.
Partnership is an inherent passion for a strong So we need to listen to people and, by their having
Scottish economy. I try to use my experience and a say, they can give new developments a heart.
knowledge to inspire and nurture talented young I’ve recently joined the Glasgow and Clyde
and aspiring people and fledgling businesses which Valley Economic Leadership Board and been
value practical business advice and guidance. appointed to the Growth Commission by the First
I am particularly drawn to companies which Minister, Nicola Sturgeon. Also, I am board
can’t attract sufficient investment or support member of the Scottish Property Federation and
through traditional public and private organisations assist female entrepreneurs to build business
and I’m now mentoring or directly involved in networks through my initiative, Women in
several innovative new businesses. Enterprise, in partnership with the Association of
I started out in construction, financial services Scottish Business Women.
and banking, working across the UK. Before My straight talking approach leaves people in
establishing Macklin Enterprise Partnerships in no doubt about my ability, energy, enthusiasm,
2015, I had transformed my father’s construction credibility and commitment to business and social
business into an entrepreneurial company engaged agendas. By being increasingly recognised as an
in economic and social transformation in Scotland, inspiration and supporter of aspiring entrepreneurs
after acquiring it in 2003. I saw opportunities in I am fortunate to be in a position to help put
brownfield sites that were unattractive to less innovative people at the core of economic
insightful and less ambitious companies. regeneration and tackle fundamental societal
This meant that The Klin Group, as it became, issues such as homelessness and food poverty.
never developed a greenbelt site but undertook There are many similarities between Scotland
some stunning restorations of listed and other and Northern Ireland and between Glasgow and
usiness and social entrepreneur, Marie historic or abandoned properties, all of which Belfast. There is much to learn from Glasgow’s
B Macklin CBE is owner and Executive Chair of
Macklin Enterprise Partnerships, which is
building a diverse portfolio of entrepreneurial
resulted in innovative transformations and,
importantly for me, homes or jobs. The company’s
foundations had been set in revitalising land and
property and investing in challenging and
transformation over the past 40 years or so.
Belfast’s ambition to create the most aspirational,
entrepreneurial society in the world and
a sustainable and lasting legacy for generations to
businesses and investment funds. Marie, whose
forebears moved to Scotland from Ireland in the demanding initiatives which helped to transform come is bold – just as it should be.
1800s, invests through special-purpose funds communities especially in Scotland’s towns. It is no accident that Glasgow’s belief is that
created and managed with like-minded third The company assumed risk by designing and ‘People Make Glasgow’. To fulfil Belfast’s
parties. She leads in identifying potential partners redeveloping unique brownfield projects in areas aspirations for an innovative, smart, productive and
and providing start-up and management advice to most developers would not venture. The policy was inclusive economy, it is imperative that the people
selected entrepreneurs. Wherever practical, she to generate steady growth, a conservative approach of the city are fully involved from the outset and
seeks to take a position of Non-Executive Director which set the company on solid ground to face the that they are integral to the collaborations,
of invested companies to ensure close engagement 2007 recession by clearing outstanding bank loans partnerships and friendships that must be built in
and scrutiny of business performance. Marie was from reserves, leaving the company debt-free. realising the city’s ambitions.
awarded a CBE in 2014 for Services to Economic For me property development is not just about Marie Macklin CBE,
Regeneration and Entrepreneurship in Scotland. the regeneration of buildings, it’s about tapping Chair of Macklin Enterprise Partnerships
Corporate PR Consumer PR
Public Affairs Events
• 83/85 Victoria Street, Belfast • 028 9026 7099 •
• mcepublicrelations.com • info@mcepublicrelations.com • @MCEnewsfeed •
PAGE 8 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 9
Much to gain through collaboration and partnership
am writing to wish the participants and organisers of the
I third annual Belfast International Homecoming
conference every success with your event.
I see that one of the sessions in your programme is titled
‘Post Referendum. What Next for Inward Investment?'
Although both our countries delivered a strong,
unequivocal vote to remain in the EU, the decision to leave
the EU has created an initial reaction of uncertainty as
markets, companies and individuals digest the potential
implications for the UK economy.
This uncertainty represents an immediate challenge to
the economy and many businesses across Scotland and
Northern Ireland and also for our trading partners. In these
circumstances, it is more important than ever that we work
together to preserve the benefits of EU membership.
I firmly believe that, for both our countries, EU
membership delivers many social, economic and cultural
benefits for individuals, business and communities. Our
cultures, societies and economies have much in common
and we have much to gain and learn from each other
through strengthened collaboration, cooperation and
partnership.
With its Homecoming gatherings, Belfast is working
hard, as Scotland has done, to attract Diaspora leaders of
commerce, community and culture to help increase
business, trade and investment in the local and wider
economy. I wish you every success with your event.
Rt Hon Nicola Sturgeon MSP
First Minister of Scotland
Commitment to new home and loyalty
to old encapsulates Spirit of the Diaspora
im Clerkin has been chosen to receive the reconciliation ambassador who has spent 25
J Spirit of the Diaspora Award, sponsored by
NI Connections, at this the third annual
Belfast International Homecoming because he
years working with and for Co-Operation Ireland,
initially in Belfast, then as the chairman of the
Board in Ireland and for the last ten years in the
epitomizes the very best of the tradition of the USA.
Wild Geese. He recently secured the biggest ever
We don’t say that just because he now sits at investment from the US for its bridge-building
the board table of the most venerable business work. That’s the true spirit of the Diaspora: you
established by those same Wild Geese 250 years don’t decry the divisions of the past, you work to
ago – Hennessy Cognac, which is part of the heal them.
LVMH Group. He is the ally of every inward investment
But rather because his commitment to his new mission from this city which makes land in New
home of America and his enduring fealty to his York. A booster for Belfast, he has been tireless in
homeland go to the very heart and soul of what it urging business leaders in the US to explore the
means to be a member of the Diaspora. possibilities of investing in Northern Ireland. No
As President and CEO of Moët-Hennessy North one beats the drum more for tourism, for
America Jim Clerkin heads up a drinks business investment, and for partnerships between Irish
with revenues approaching $2 billion which America and Belfast than Jim Clerkin. He does
boasts some of the world’s most desirable brands that not only because he knows jobs are the
including Dom Pérignon and Moët & Chandon. concrete foundation on which peace and
He is the longest-serving CEO of a drinks prosperity can be built but also because he knows
company in the US, his longevity in high office that in our midst there are tens of thousands of
linked directly to the values of straight-talking and intelligent and ambitious young men and women
hard work he learnt as the son of a pig-farmer hungry for work and advancement.
from Rostrevor, Co Down. And the traits and In giving back to his homeland and in particular
talents for which he is lauded were nurtured as a to its youth, Jim Clerkin shows us that the
manager for Guinness during some of the or why many of our community and political indomitable spirit of the Diaspora not only beats
toughest days of the Troubles. leaders have had the opportunity to visit his in his heart but that it soars.
He is therefore a business legend in the US. corporate offices below the High Line in New York. Our Spirit of the Diaspora 2016 recipient Jim
But that’s not how the majority of us know him The Jim we know is the peace and Clerkin.
PAGE 10 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016Gold Medal Winner
IN THE INTERNATIONAL
KEG LAGER COMPETITION
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 11Harnessing the skills of our global talent
orthern Ireland has in recent Sciences which has been For our industries to continue to
N years been transformed with
peace bringing investment,
growth and stability to the region.
recognised by the Northern Ireland
Executive as one of the priority
sectors in helping to drive forward
go from strength to strength
attracting and retaining talent is
vital especially as the job market
Despite Brexit triggering reduced the economy, with growth of more continues to recover. To ensure
growth forecasts of one per cent, than 20 per cent in both turnover effective talent retention many
indicators still point to increased and employment over the past employers actively adopt strategies
consumer confidence in the local three years. Home-grown global to ensure their teams remain happy
economy with solid growth across leaders such as Almac Group, in their current role and loyal to the
vital sectors. Last month's Labour Norbrook and Randox are all company. This can be achieved by
Market report revealed that headquartered here and now implementing some simple
unemployment continues to employ over 7,000 people. Belfast practices. For instance, employees
decrease and according to figures has also attracted high levels of often require a feeling of ownership
from the Office for National investment on an international and autonomy in their work which
Statistics, property prices have scale over the last 10 years in the allows them to grow. Ongoing staff
risen by more than four per cent in tech sector with a rise in digital and development is helped by offering
three months. Whilst there are technology jobs. Between 2010 and leadership training and
challenges ahead, Northern Ireland 2013 there was a 73 per cent surge opportunities for advancement. In
is an increasingly attractive location Ireland’s largest recruitment in new digital jobs. The breadth of addition, flexibility for employees is
to investors at home and abroad. agencies Cpl is acutely aware of the technology areas is continuing to becoming more and more
Now is the time to put Belfast’s changing attitudes amongst the grow in mobile and tablet important so occasional
best foot forward highlighting our island’s diaspora. Last year we development, gaming, artificial telecommuting or remote workdays
strong assets, be it the affordable helped attract 1000 people home intelligence, fintech and payment can also help and shows that a
cost of living, great education and once again we are seeing a infrastructure. It is estimated that company respects a work-life
system or our fantastic talent. growing appetite amongst workers there are around 32,000 people balance. Recognition of strong
Initiatives such as the Belfast keen to return. currently working in the IT industry. performance is also essential. In
International Homecoming help This is an opportunity which There are challenges surrounding short, to retain talent businesses
showcase all we have to offer to enables us to draw on the Brexit and as recruiters we know must offer rewards, sit down with
those who once called this place considerable pool of local talent that free movement is vital to employees periodically to set goals
home. Many departed these shores spread all over the world. As ensure we continue to attract the for advancement and, most of all,
in recent decades for cities such as recruiters we work to source the skills and the people we need. Top display a genuine interest. If a
San Francisco, New York and best people in the best positions talent returns with fresh company makes the effort its
London and now with the skills, and Ardlinn, the Executive search entrepreneurial, cultural and social employees will too, they will be
networks and experiences they arm of Cpl, offers a bespoke service skills that our economy benefits motivated happy and loyal and we
have built up while working abroad seeking out leading executive talent from and with Brexit threatening all benefit as a result.
they are ready to return. With a across a range of sectors. Strong the free movement of people these
network which spans 36 offices growth has seen demand rise and attributes could prove invaluable as Aine Brolly,
across 10 countries and as one of jobs created in sectors such as Life skills become harder to find. CEO, Cpl Resources
PAGE 12 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016To stay connected with home, register at
niconnections.com
Our sponsors
Welcome Home
Northern Irish Northern Irish
@ConnectNI
Connections Connections
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 13Entrepreneurial Sparks to fly in Dragons Den
This year’s Homecoming event sees a new addition to the agenda as five fledgling companies are invited to test their services - and their nerves - in front of three top industry
professionals. The Dragons Den style competition will be moderated by Sean P Moynihan of the Irish Network USA and is sponsored by United.
The five fledgling businesses are ‘chiclets’ of Entrepreneurial Spark, a start-up hatchery based in Belfast and backed by Ulster Bank. After pitching their businesses to judges
Lynsey Cunningham of Ulster Bank, Angel Investor Colm Long and Orla Rimmington of Kernel Capital one company will leave the Den with a return flight to San Francisco.
Moderator: Sean Moynihan which defines the strategy for supporting the on the Apple App within days. System trials have
Attorney Sean P. Moynihan is company’s more than one billion users. Before been agreed with one of Northern Ireland’s
the founder and principal of assuming this role in late 2011, he established premium hotel, restaurant and bar operators and
The Moynihan Group. He is a Facebook’s EMEA Headquarters based in Dublin, with three of Northern Ireland’s Colleges of Further
1992 cum laude graduate of Ireland where he held the position of Director of Education Catering departments.
Providence College and a 2001 Online Operations and managed multiple functions Company founder, Neil Bradley, has a
cum laude graduate of Suffolk to drive the growth of the business in the region. background of 25 years as a chef. Through his work
University Law School’s Prior to joining Facebook, Colm spent five years at as a chef and restaurateur, it became apparent that
evening division program. He Google where he held numerous senior the form filling and monitoring of the health and
was admitted to the Massachusetts Bar in January management positions including Director, Online safety requirements of food filling could be
of 2002. He has a dynamic record of professional Sales and Operations for Northern Europe and improved and automated; as a result Food Safe
experience in the insurance, financial services, non- Director of Sales Operations for Emerging Markets. System was developed.
profit, and public sectors of the economy. He now spends his time advising US tech startups
Mr Moynihan spent over a decade in the public on growing internationally and he also does some Holy Candle App
service arena. He served in various positions within Angel investing. The Holy Candle App will
the Massachusetts House of Representatives provide an easy to use platform
including Counsel to the House Ways and Means Orla Rimmington, allowing users to light a candle in
Committee, Counsel to the Office of the House Partner, Kernel Capital one of several iconic churches
Majority Leader, and Legislative Director. During his Orla is a Partner with Kernel around the globe. The recipient will
time in the Ways and Means Committee and the Capital and has over 15 years’ receive immediate notification with a personal
Office of the House Majority Leader, Attorney experience working with message and a lighted symbol will also appear on
Moynihan worked on a myriad of significant public technology companies and their smart device.
policy issues – in particular – energy and the nine years’ experience directly Ciaran Gallagher hopes his app will encourage
environment, life sciences/biotech, education, in Venture Capital. Orla people to extend support to friends and family
labour, and the administration of justice in the works closely with the entrepreneur community to during hard times and for recipients to gain
Commonwealth. identify investment opportunities. She enables the strength from that support that will help them
Attorney Moynihan serves as Vice President of growth and development of Kernel Capital portfolio through their hard times.
Irish Network USA and as Vice President for Global companies, directly working with the executive
Partnerships of the Boston Irish Business teams of investee companies. Péarlaí
Association [BIBA]. He also serves on the Irish Prior to joining Kernel Capital in 2007, Orla was Péarlaí provides
International Immigrant Center’s (IIIC) Internship Global Services Manager with Qumas Ltd, a Kernel shopping centres and
Advisory Panel. His past volunteer efforts include Capital portfolio company, which sold to Accelrys, high street retailers
serving as a “Connector” with the former Boston Inc. (NASDAQ: ACCL) for US$50m in December with real time tracking through smart ID’s of
World Partnerships (BWP) non-profit organization 2013. individual customer journeys through their physical
and as a trustee of the Irish Pastoral Centre. Orla graduated from UCC with a degree in stores, enabling highly targeted, relevant and timely
Mr Moynihan is a former Chairman of the Economics and Computer Science (2000) and promotional and advertising capabilities. Péarlaí’s
Northboro Democratic Town Committee of subsequently attained a Higher Diploma in ID’s are the only multi-functional ID’s in the world
Northboro, MA. He has managed and worked on Software Engineering (2001). Orla holds a Diploma that consumers can add payment features to,
numerous municipal, state legislative, in Digital Marketing (2010) from the Digital additional loyalty card details and IOT activation
congressional, and presidential campaigns. Marketing Institute, is a member of the Institute of features.
Directors (IoD) and holds an IoD Diploma in Furthermore, through sophisticated innovative
Judges Company Direction (2015). data analytics Péarlaí will capture customers data
Lynsey Cunningham, Ulster via various hardware (ID’s/kiosks) data capturing
Bank devices. Péarlaí can correlate statistically significant
Lynsey Cunningham is the PITCHING COMPANIES economic data and with a high level of confidence
Entrepreneurial Development E+Press profile specific customers and shopping habits over
Manager with Ulster Bank in E+Press is an app for a non- a period of short and medium runs. Péarlaí’s vision
NI, overseeing the bank's verbal method of contacting is to become the market leader in retail analytics
support for entrepreneurs, the emergency services. and real time marketing for bricks and mortar
start-ups and high growth Highly visual and uncomplicated, the app will retailers.
businesses and engaging the wider business improve information accuracy for both the caller
community in mentoring those firms. Lynsey joined and call handler. Designed for Deaf people and TriMedika
Ulster Bank in 2008, working in the bank's business those with speech impediments, the app also Would you like to be
team. She has been a Business Women Can part of a technology
benefits anyone with breathing difficulties, allergies
ambassador and a Third Sector ambassador within or those in situations of domestic abuse. The app solution that could put
the bank. In addition to organising the setting up of will promote inclusivity and transform the delivery £150 million back into the NHS/year and connect
the Entrepreneurial Spark hatchery in Belfast in of emergency services. hospital departments to enable sharing of patient
February 2016 and supporting the businesses, data? Trimedika™ Ltd. is the only EU manufacturer
Lynsey has been tasked by Royal Bank of Scotland Food Safe System of a non-touch, handheld clinical thermometer that
and NatWest to help pilot the first virtual Da.Re Ltd is an IT company will connect hospital departments and minimise
Entrepreneurial Spark hatchery in Scotland. specialising in the hospital borne infections.
development of Food Safe Achievements so far
Colm Long, Angel Investor System. Food Safe System is – Working CNC sample of first device
Colm has a strong track the only app based service – Ready to sign off the tooling for a fully CE marked
record of building and scaling with the specific aim of helping food related device in March 2017.
multinational sales and businesses meet government mandated regulatory – 20 international distributors interested in selling
operations teams and compliance procedures. the device
internationally for fast growing Automated data collection is achieved via – Ownership of Trimedika Trademark
tech companies including wireless connected sensors where possible, with Targets
some of the internet’s hottest the remaining data entered manually on a – Year 1 unit sales are projected at 10,000units,
properties, such as Facebook smartphone or tablet. Food Safe System is sold on a equating to 30 hospital customers delivering
and Google. He has expertise in setting up software as a service (SaaS) model and market revenue of £1.17 million. (gross profit 83%)
operations and scaling quickly, hiring smart, driven validation has highlighted significant interest both – Exit strategy to sell to large competitors after
teams and developing the go to market strategy. nationally and internationally. Year 3
He oversaw Facebook’s Global Operations group The Food Safe System App is due to be released
PAGE 14 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016y
s
Say hello to more...
in Belfast
SS Nomadic & Titanic Belfast
Experience 100 years of maritime history and more in
just 48 hours
Because Belfast is so compact, it’s the perfect place to experience more in less time!
Titanic Belfast is a must-see. It’s just been named Europe’s leading Tourist Attraction at
the 2016 World Travel Awards in Italy. While you’re in the Titanic Quarter, check out the fully
restored SS Nomadic, and take a trip on the ‘Wee Tram’, Titanic’s Shipyard Tour.
A short walk later, find your Belfast as you sip local craft gin in the buzzing boho atmosphere
of the Cathedral Quarter, or enjoy some Michelin-star dining at Deane’s EIPIC or Ox.
And here are two big Autumn events for your diary, the world-famous Belfast International
Arts Festival (11 -29 October), while for the foodies, we have the BBC Good Food Show
Northern Ireland (14 - 16 October).
It’s a lot to discover on Day One. On Day Two you’ll discover even more…
Northern Ireland. Say hello to more.
#discoverni
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 15Irish Network USA forging friendships and encouraging investment
or four days last month members, friends and supporters came
F together in San Francisco to attend and participate in the fourth annual
Irish Network USA national conference. As has been the case with the
previous three conferences, participants - this year representing 15 cities
across the US as well as Cork, Belfast and Dublin - left asking where we’d
be meeting in 2017, and how we’d top this year’s gathering.
With little time to spare in efforts to work through a very full agenda
during the conference’s plenary session, Irish Minister of State for Diaspora
and International Development Joe McHugh, TD helped start the day by
addressing conference participants, offering that his attendance, as part of
his first trip to the US in this role, was a “testament to the high regard to
which IN USA is held as a key partner in connecting and engaging our
Global Irish throughout the US.”
One of the foremost experts on matters related to Diaspora
engagement, and widely regarded as one of Ireland’s best communicators,
Kingsley Aikins kept the more than 100 guests on the edge of their seats Steve Lenox (centre) with Sean P Moynihan and Máirtín Ó Muilleoir
with tips on more effective networking and a clarion call to seek
relationships that are meaningful, not simply transactional. His reminder
that “talent is meaningless if you can’t be found, and networks allow you to and the opportunity to network in person with others that share a similar
be found”, provided fuel to the afternoon work session ‘Building a Stronger passion for connecting all of Ireland and the US that made the weekend
National Network’ that offered attendees the opportunity to interact directly special.
with each other, sharing best practices, and challenges, and creating a Irish Network USA’s mission is a straightforward one, to encourage
foundation for what will become Irish Network USA’s strategic plan for investment in Ireland, on both sides of the border, through business,
future growth and success. culture, education and sport. How we meet that mission, through a network
Irish Network USA is particularly grateful for the role each of our of 22 chapters across the US, in a way that continues to promote and
sponsors played. From the financial commitment they made to the achieve our efforts to be a diverse and inclusive organization, remains a
substance they added to the agenda, INUSA16 wouldn’t have been possible welcome challenge.
without sponsors like Invest NI and the Northern Ireland Bureau. They By doubling down on efforts to engage our members online and
invested in us, and in return we will continue to provide access to the most increasing opportunities for them to meet in person, we will continue to
robust network of Irish, Irish Americans and friends of Ireland. move ahead as our growth takes hold in places beyond traditional Irish-
To be sure, the speakers were top class, offering insights into their own American hotbeds such as New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, and
experiences as members of the Global Irish community; the conference others - maintaining a connection wherever our supporters wish to exercise
venues gave attendees a look ‘behind the curtain’ at top companies like their Irishness while energizing a passion to be contributing members of the
Microsoft, Google and NitroPDF; and those who travelled from out of town Irish Diaspora.
got the chance to experience the very best of San Francisco. Yet, with all of
this, it was the friendships that were formed, the relationships reengaged, Steve Lenox, President of Irish Network USA
Manager of
The Bank of Ireland Kernel Capital Growth Funds
75 export focused companies – over 1,000 employees – over 80 institutional co-investors
Jayne Brady, Kernel Capital with Ger Goold, Kernel Capital with Allen Martin, Kernel Capital with
portfolio company DisplayNote. portfolio company Corlytics. portfolio company Cirdan Imaging.
“We partner with people of exceptional vision who innovate and sell to global markets”
Kernel Management Partners Limited, trading as Kernel Capital, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK.
PAGE 16 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016Our sincere commitment to engaging the Diaspora
rish Network Boston (IN Boston) has worked to enhance the links between our cities.
I tirelessly to promote the enduring link
between Ireland and the United States.
Buoyed by unique events, member to member
Our two cities have made significant strides to
build upon this relationship which included a
visit in 2014 by Mayor Walsh to Belfast to
networking opportunities, partnerships and launch and participate in the Boston
information sharing with local and national Homecoming Conference which included visits
sister Irish organizations, IN Boston exemplifies to Boston companies doing business in the two
a sincere commitment to engaging the Irish cities, cultural centres, and educational
diaspora – including Irish born, Irish Americans institutions.
and friends of Ireland. Our goal is to celebrate Further, in 2015 we saw the realization of the
our mutual interests in Irish culture, business, inaugural Friendly Four hockey tournament at
education, and social/community initiatives by the Odyssey Arena in Belfast between the
providing opportunities and experiences for all University of Massachusetts Lowell,
of our members. Northeastern University, Brown University, and
Our network was one of the first chapters to Colgate University. This tournament was far
be founded under our umbrella organization, from only a sporting event, as it provided
Irish Network USA (IN USA), which is now 22 opportunities for university representatives and
chapters strong and continues to grow. business leaders to meet, collaborate and
Celebrating our fifth anniversary in 2015, we formulate partnerships going forward. We look
were honoured to host the Irish Network USA forward to participation in this year’s conference
(IN USA) annual conference which brought to build upon our work and make additional
together representatives of local Irish Network lasting connections.
chapters from across the United States. IN Boston is committed to engaging all of the
We are particularly thrilled to yet again be Irish diaspora and we welcome the unique
involved with this year’s Belfast Homecoming opportunity to grow our business, educational
conference to further the strong links with our and cultural links with the entire island of
sister city. Under the leadership of Boston Ireland.
Mayor Martin Walsh and former Belfast Lord
Mayor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, Boston and Belfast Sean P Moynihan,
signed a formal sister city agreement in 2014 Former President of Irish Network Boston and
and we could not be prouder of this partnership Vice President of Irish Network USA
Account:
Acme Co.
Topics:
Storage
Buyer Stage:
Late
Intent:
The leading global agency providing end-to-end predictive
account-based marketing solutions.
mrp
www.MRPFD.com Follow MRP:
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 17PAGE 18 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 19
International Guests
Donal Sullivan Joyce Sullivan Ryan McClenaghan Dan Devine Leo McGuire Neil Amner John Langlois OBE
VP, JCI-TYCO, Cork Founder Director, Micron Mayor, West Allis, Bergin County, NJ, President, Glasgow Secretary, Emerald
SocMediaFin, Inc. Manufacturing, Wisconsin Irish Network Chamber of Heritage
Australia Commerce
Colm Long Stuart Patrick Lyn Nelson Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick Peter Oakes Joseba Asiron Brian Golden
Angel Investor/Advisor Chief Executive, Managing Director, Secretary, New York President, Irish Mayor of Irunia – Director, Boston
Glasgow Chamber of Emerald Heritage State Assembly Australian Chamber of Pamplona Redevelopment
Commerce Commerce Authority
John Lahey Thomas Fitzpatrick John Donovan Jim Clerkin Marie Macklin C.B.E Sean Moynihan Steve Lenox
President, Quinnipiac Partner, Davis, Malm, Chairman of Boston CEO, US Moët Executive Chairwoman, Attorney, The Founder, Lenox
University and D'Agostine, P.C. Belfast-Boston Board Hennessy USA Macklin Enterprise Moynihan Group LLC Consulting
Boston, MA Partnerships
Global
Business Driving Business Outcomes for the World's Best Brands
10 Services
Company We take a holistic approach to customer engagement and deploy capabilities and assets to
enable improved revenue generation, customer experience and service optimisation.
90k+
Staff What Makes Us Different
Presence in tWe are a global operation by design
Different 25+ tWe are entrepreneurial and passionate about your success
Countries tOur insight and innovation enable our client’s differentiation
by Design tOur technology applications and platforms enable us to lead the industry
125+
Locations
tWe deliver value faster in our ability to attack long-term strategy in short-term increments
tOur engagement models depend on client business outcomes
tWe have a flexible investment model for mutual success
40+
Languages
Deep Domain Expertise
Connected We leverage specialised expertise to create customised, high-value solutions.
Global
Technology
Infrastructure Banking and Financial Services Media and Communications
Healthcare Retail and eCommerce
1Transactions
B+
Handled Insurance Travel and Transportation
Annually
Technology Automotive
360 +
Trained COPC
Consumer Electronics Energy and Public Sector
Coordinators
Helped Develop Standard
One of First Certified
Self-Benchmarking Status
Connect with Concentrix: Gain Value with Velocity
Northern Ireland Facebook
facebook.com/concentrix.corporation
9 Lanyon Place
Belfast, BT1 3LP, Northern Ireland Twitter
twitter.com/concentrix
+44 2890 227777 LinkedIn
www.concentrix.com linkedin.com/company/concentrix
Google+
plus.google.com/+concentrix
YouTube
youtube.com/user/CNXCorporation
© 2016 Concentrix Corporation. All rights reserved. Concentrix is a wholly owned subsidiary of SYNNEX Corporation (NYSE:SNX).
PAGE 20 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016Supporting growth and
competitiveness
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Deloitte are proud to sponsor The Belfast Homecoming 2016.
www.deloitte.co.uk
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BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 21AGENDA
Friday 14th October, 2016
Paul McErlean, MD MCE Public Relations and Joyce Sullivan, Founder/CEO SocMediaFin, Inc. New York
7.45am Registration
8.00am Business Breakfast: Cranes Above Belfast
Introduced by Ben Collins, Regional Director RICS
Chair: David Gavaghan, CEO Aurora Prime Real Estate
Speakers: Brian Golden, Boston Redevelopment Authority • Suzanne Wylie, CEO Belfast City Council
Mark Hackett, Director City Reparo • Glyn Roberts, CEO, NIIRTA
8.55am Conference Opening
Welcome: Howard Hastings, Host of the Belfast International Homecoming
9.00am A Belfast Welcome
Brian Kingston, Lord Mayor of Belfast
9.05am Keynote. Simon Hamilton, MLA
Minister for the Economy (Invited)
9.15am Response. Richard Donnan, Head of Ulster Bank, NI
9.20am Attracting and Keeping Smart Talent
Chair: Jackie Henry, Senior Partner, Deloitte
Panel: Neil Amner, President, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce • Donal Durkan, Director of Development,
Belfast City Council • Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick, New York State Assembly • Áine Brolly, CEO, Cpl Resources
9.55am Attracting Global Corporations and the benefits
of having a JCI-TYCO global centre in Belfast
Dónal Sullivan, VP and General Manager, JCI-TYCO
10.05am Empowering Entrepreneurs
Chair: Jayne Brady, Partner, Kernel Capital
Panel: Colm Long, Angel Investor • Mary McKenna, Entrepreneur
Ryan McClenaghan, Director Micron Manufacturing, Australia
Suzanne Aquino, Global Category Manager, Chain IQ, New York
10.35am The Global Rise of First Derivatives and MRP’s Success in Belfast
Brian Conlon, Founder, First Derivatives
10.45am Post Referendum;. Where now for inward investment?
Chair: Judith Totten, MD & Founder UPSTREAM Working Capital,
Speakers: Peter Oakes, President, Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce & Founder of Fintech Ireland •
Fergal O’Brien, Director of Policy, IBEC • Angela McGowan, Director, CBI
PAGE 22 • BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016AGENDA
Friday 14th October, 2016
11.15am Dragons Den
Moderator: Sean Moynihan, Vice President, Irish Network USA
Dragons: Lyndsey Cunningham, Ulster Bank, Orla Rimmington, Partner Kernel Capital,
Colm Long, Angel Investor
Start Ups: E+Press, Pearlai, Food Safe Systems, Holy Candle App and Trimedika
11:50am -12:35pm Boardroom Dialogues:
Building On Success: Transforming our Tourism Offering (Britannic Suite)
Chair: Harry Connolly, Executive Director, Fáilte Feirste Thiar
Contributors: Colin Neil, Hospitality Ulster • Uel Hoey, Business Development Director,
Belfast International Airport • Caitriona Lavery, Hastings Hotel Group
Colin Mountstephen, Deloitte • Maeve Monaghan, CEO NOW Project • Terence Brannigan, Chair, Tourism
NI • Michelle Hatfield, George Best Belfast City Airport • Frank Collins, IrishCentral.com
Harnessing the Power of the Diaspora (Olympic Suite)
Chair: Leo P. McGuire, MBA Sheriff (Ret.) LPM Strategies LLC, New York
Contributors: Dan Devine, Mayor of West Allis, Wisconsin • Lyn Nelson, Founder Emerald-Heritage
John Langlois OBE, Secretary Emerald-Heritage
Laura Leonard, EU & International Relations Manager, BCC • Maurice Kinkead, EBP
Conor Houston, Ireland Funds Young Leaders • Kevin Gamble, Director Féile an Phobail
Regeneration. What are the drivers? (The Bridge)
Chair: Nuala Gallagher, Director of City Centre Investment and Regeneration Belfast City Council
Contributors: Stuart Patrick, CEO Glasgow Chamber of Commerce
Professor Martin Haran, Professor of Real Estate and Urban Studies Ulster University
Cllr Geraldine McAteer, Sinn Féin • Cllr Tim Attwood, SDLP
12th Annual Belfast Business Top 50 Luncheon
12.30pm Wine Reception
1pm Lunch and Awards
Guest Speaker: Máirtín Ó Muilleoir MLA, Minister for Finance and Personnel
Guest of Honour: Jim Clerkin, CEO, Moët Hennessy USA
Compere: Aidan Brown, UTV
4:30pm - 6pm Conference Club Stix and Stones
(Upper Queen Street)
Bus will leave Stix and Stones at 6pm sharp for US Consul’s residence
6.30pm - 8.00pm Farewell Finale
Residence of the US Consul General Dan Lawton
Closing Remarks: Tom Fitzpatrick, Partner Davis Malm & D’Agostine, Boston
Cllr Jeff Syracuse, Nashville
Steve Lenox, Irish Newtork USA, Honorary Chair the Belfast International Homecoming
BELFAST INTERNATIONAL HOMECOMING 2016 • PAGE 23You can also read
