Ulster Bank host the 4th IDA “Meet Your Neighbours” Networking Event

The 4th IDA/Ulster Bank “Meet Your Neighbours” Networking Event took place in Ulster Bank, George’s Quay on Thursday evening, 19th March 2015. The event was a great success, driven by the strong attendance from a large number of innovative companies. Each of these companies has one thing in common – they have chosen Ireland as their investment location of choice.

The theme for the evening was Go Green Gathering, which brought some festive atmosphere in celebration of St Patrick’s Day.

There was a real buzz in the room as the event delivered traditional Irish music and served up staple Irish foods, as each of these young vibrant companies mingled, networked and exchanged ideas.

The IDA Emerging Business Division

The event is an IDA initiative, hosted by Ulster Bank, and it is a testament to the tremendous work of the IDA Emerging Business Division.

The IDA has successfully supported a large number of multinational companies with their expansion into Ireland, many of which are based in Dublin. The event allows companies an opportunity to share their experience of moving to, and doing business in, Ireland. It was also a chance for people to network as well as share their business concepts and ethos.

Companies that attended on the night included: Indeed, Google, Nitro, Borderfree and Stripe – many of whom donned some green for the occasion.

At the outset, Stephen Masterson (Director, Ulster Bank Corporate Banking) welcomed everyone on behalf of Ulster Bank and highlighted the fantastic work completed by the IDA in attracting these exciting businesses to Ireland.

Panel Discussion

Barry O’Dowd (Head of the IDA’s Emerging Business Division) was MC for the evening, and his job included interviewing a panel to discuss sector developments, why their company chose Ireland, disruption in their individual sectors and how their company maintains a competitive edge in today’s fast moving market.

There were three panel members, covering a good cross section of the types of companies that have chosen Ireland:

Aidan McLaughlin: Head of International Communications, Indeed.com
Hanni Ross: Business Development/Marketing, Slack, Inc
Thomas Hackett: General Manager, Modern Marketing Concepts, Inc

Barry’s Emerging Business Team were also in attendance, including Melissa O’ Connor, Gillian Lawless, Kathleen Bohan, Kevin Carroll, Jayne Wyatt, Patrick Gaule, Ciaran Chaney and Emma Mitchell.

Following a raffle, the remainder of the evening was spent enjoying the good company, food and music. There were plenty of business cards exchanged, as the attendees mingled, whilst admiring the impressive night-time view of the Custom House across the Liffey.

Ulster Bank and the IDA, are delighted to continue the “Meet Your Neighbours” tradition and look forward to the next event, bringing together Dublin’s international business community.