Tell us about your professional experience before discovering the Corporate Governance Institute.*

I head up the Finance function at Dublin Port Company and have worked in a Finance role for over 30 years. I am a qualified accountant with ACCA and CTA professional qualifications.  

What challenges or opportunities were you facing in your career or on your board before taking our course?

The company comes into scope for the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) as a large company (wave 2) and will be required to report on material sustainability topics in 2026 on 2025 data. As a commercial semi-state, the company has also adopted the Climate Action Framework for commercial semi-state bodies (CSSB’s) and reports into NewERA under that framework. The obligation to report and be audited on non-financial information is new to the company. We needed to establish an appropriate governance structure and develop the necessary skill sets to meet these new reporting obligations. 

Why did you choose to study for the Diploma in Corporate Governance with us to help with these challenges/opportunities?

While there are a number of courses and learning opportunities available I wanted to complete a course that had a recognised accreditation. The Diploma being delivered online and through self-paced learning also appealed to me due to a busy work schedule, as well as personal time commitments. I received the detailed syllabus for the Diploma in ESG and felt it covered a broad range of topics that I would learn from.  As a commercial semi-state, Governance is also high on the agenda and therefore approaching the ESG topic through a governance lens would help me consider the new reporting obligations from the board’s perspective. 

Can you describe any particular elements of the course that stood out to you or made a significant impact?

The course content was excellent and clearly delivered. What stood out to me was the breadth of additional resources, reading materials etc. made available to students. The self-directed learning aspect of the course was important to me so that I could fit it into my busy schedule. 

How has completing this course influenced your career, leadership approach, or governance or ESG skills?

Since completing the course we are busy preparing for CSRD reporting and I am certainly benefiting from the course learnings. I have taken responsibility for ESG Reporting in the company and am now undertaking a Diploma in Business Sustainability to further broaden my knowledge and skills. 

I have also taken up a Director position in a charity to enhance my experience at Board level. I have continued with my membership of CGI and will continue to attend masterclasses on Governance and ESG topics. 

What did you find most beneficial about studying with the Corporate Governance Institute?

The quality of the learning materials and support. The Masterclasses delivered by subject matter experts were also extremely beneficial.