The Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber welcomed a distinguished group of business leaders, employers and regional stakeholders to The Tannery Restaurant in April for a special Leadership Dinner that brought together experience, insight and ambition from across the region.

Kindly sponsored by AIB, the evening featured guest speaker Colin Hunt, CEO of AIB Group. Designed as a focused and intentionally intimate gathering, the event created space for open conversation, shared perspective and meaningful connection among those shaping the local and regional economy.

The room reflected a strong cross-section of enterprise — from established businesses to scaling companies and key decision-makers — contributing to a discussion that was practical, relevant and grounded in the realities of business today.

Speaking following the event, Chamber President Oren Byrne said:

“This is exactly the kind of space we want to create — where people can come together, speak openly and connect in a meaningful way. The real value lies in the conversations and the opportunities that flow from them. The strength of engagement across the room on the night is a clear reflection of the ambition and potential within our business community.”

Colin Hunt, CEO of AIB Group, added:

“I was delighted to return to Waterford and to engage with so many businesses from the area. There was a real sense of energy and forward momentum in the room. Opportunities like this — to listen, share perspectives and stay connected — are important at every level of business. I would like to thank Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber and Paul Flynn and his team at The Tannery for their exceptional hospitality in making this such a memorable evening.”

The evening also carried added significance as one of the final large private events hosted at The Tannery in its current format, contributing to a strong sense of occasion throughout.

Events such as this reflect the Chamber’s ongoing role in connecting businesses, facilitating informed discussion, and creating opportunities that support growth, collaboration and a confident future for West Waterford.