The Guaranteed Irish Technology Forum, sponsored by Viatel, featured an industry leading line-up within the tech sector. Hosted by Microsoft Ireland, the panel discussion featured industry thought leaders Peter Loughreed Small, Medium & Corporate Sales Director at Microsoft Ireland, Tommy Kelly Founder & CEO of ESW and Damien McCann Director of Sales & Marketing at Viatel.
The panel outlined Ireland’s position as the technology hub of Europe, employing over 37,000 people and generating €35 billion in exports annually. The panel discussed how the skillset of Ireland’s tech talent match the rate of emerging technologies, and company culture as a key to retaining talent.
In March of this year, Microsoft completed their annual Work Trend Index Report determining employee’s attitude toward hybrid work across Ireland. Peter Lougheed Small, Medium & Corporate Sales Director at Microsoft Ireland spoke about the report’s findings. The report found that 53% of employees are more likely to prioritise health and wellbeing over work than before the pandemic.
The panel also highlighted industry challenges such as retaining tech talent, the delay in the rollout of the national broadband plan, the cost of living and the affordability of housing. Tommy Kelly CEO of ESW spoke about priortising Ireland’s tech ecosystem and his commitment to retain their HQ in Ireland, as well as having a global presence in Singapore and the US.
When it comes to employee acquisition and retention, company culture, employee well-being and the facilitation of a healthy work/life balance are the biggest factors attracting talent. Damien McCann Director of Sales & Marketing at Viatel spoke about navigating the new era of hybrid working in Ireland to create an inclusive community and positive corporate culture.
Guaranteed Irish is a business membership network championing businesses based in Ireland since 1974. The Guaranteed Irish licensed mark is the national symbol of trust in business in Ireland.
Visit www.guaranteedirish.ie for further information.
