Overview
Who really holds the power in the boardroom? Who asks the hard questions? And who sees what everyone else misses?
Effective boards aren't built on structures and processes alone. They are shaped by the relationships around the table, none more so than those between the Chair, the CEO and the Company Secretary.
In this candid panel, an experienced Chair, CEO and Company Secretary from different sectors talk about how they work together when it matters most. They'll discuss how much challenge is healthy, how difficult issues should reach the board, and how the Company Secretary supports the Chair and CEO through the toughest moments.
They'll also look at the behaviours, relationships and judgement that set high-performing boards apart, and what each role needs from the other two to make it work. Expect real stories, practical lessons and the chance to put your own questions to the panel.
Three Seats. One Table. Who Really Holds the Power?
Moderator - Jenny McGowran, Simmons & Simmons
Jenny McGowran, CIFD, ACG Jenny McGowran is Head of Corporate Services at Simmons & Simmons in Dublin, where she established and leads the firm’s corporate services business. With 20 years’ experience, she specialises in investment funds and fund governance, advising boards, directors and senior stakeholders on governance, regulatory and company secretarial matters. Her experience also extends across a diverse range of industries and organisations. Jenny is a Certified Investment Fund Director (CIFD) and an Associate of The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (ACG), and holds an MSc in International Business (Hons.) and a BSc in Management & Marketing (Hons.). She is Chair of the Institute’s Irish Region Events Committee and a member of its Irish Council.
Speakers/Panel:
Miriam Hughes, Chair of Eir, Bus Eireann, and Cornmarket Financial Services
Miriam Hughes is a Chartered Director and experienced Chair and Non-Executive Director. Miriam is the current Chair on several boards including Eir, Bus Éireann, Cornmarket, CareChoice Group, and Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland. A former CEO of DDFH&B, one of Ireland’s leading communications groups, Miriam has held senior marketing and communications roles with Nestlé, Bank of Ireland, Smith & Nephew and AIB. Miriam is a UCD graduate with a BComm and Master’s in Marketing, and is a former President of the Marketing Institute of Ireland. Miriam has held several board and leadership roles across Ireland’s business and charitable sectors.
Peter Broome, CEO of Outsurance
Date: 4th November, 2026
Time: 8am - 9am (registration at 7:30am)
Venue: Simmons & Simmons, 1 Molesworth Street, Dublin 2
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For any related enquiries please contact us at events@cgi.org.uk, or call us at +44 (0)20 7580 4741