Voices of Leadership Conference 2026

Donna Traynor

Conference Host

Donna Traynor is one of Ireland’s most respected public figures, with over three decades of experience in broadcasting. After starting her career at RTÉ, she became a household name as the presenter of BBC Northern Ireland’s award-winning “BBC Newsline.” Donna has covered some of the most significant events in Ireland’s history, including George Best’s funeral, the Titanic centenary, and Queen Elizabeth II’s state visit to Ireland. She also gained international recognition with cameo appearances in the hit series "Derry Girls." Donna now provides media performance and public speaking training. As a familiar voice to thousands, Donna will be our guiding voice throughout the conference.

Sarah Murphy

Founder & CEO | Conexus

Sarah Murphy is the Founder and Chief Executive of Conexus, a New York-based corporate membership network and events business connecting senior leaders across industries, markets and geographies. Formerly the youngest CEO of an Irish national media outlet, she spent close to two decades at the highest levels of business media across Ireland and the United Kingdom, most recently as CEO of Business Post, where she continues to serve as a Non-Executive Director. At Business Post Group, Sarah led a significant digital transformation and financial turnaround, repositioning the organisation as Ireland's leading business media group. Throughout her career, she has specialised in building influential communities through premium content, editorial platforms and high-profile events that bring decision-makers together. Founded in 2026, Conexus is the expression of that expertise on a transatlantic scale, creating curated opportunities for meaningful connection through membership, private convenings and major international events. Sarah also serves as Chair of the Advisory Board of the Global Economic Summit and supports a number of charitable and social impact initiatives. A graduate of Trinity College Dublin and London Metropolitan University, she is a passionate advocate for women's equality, inclusive leadership and strengthening transatlantic business relationships.

Fiacre O'Donnell

Sustainability Director | Vidrala

Fiacre O'Donnell is Sustainability Director at Encirc and one of Northern Ireland's most respected voices in sustainability, corporate responsibility and sustainable manufacturing. With more than 25 years of experience across planning, sales, marketing, sustainability, corporate affairs and communications, he has played a pivotal role in transforming Encirc and parent company Vidrala into recognised industry leaders in environmental performance and social impact. An MBA graduate of Ulster Business School, and holder of a Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Business from the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, Fiacre is also an alumnus of the Timoney Leadership Institute and Imagine Leaders programme. He has led landmark initiatives including the development of the world's most sustainable glass bottle, the adoption of Science-Based Targets, and the launch of Encirc's Social Impact Strategy. Alongside serving on several influential business and community boards, Fiacre has received numerous leadership and sustainability awards. His vision is to create a manufacturing future that delivers lasting value for people, planet and prosperity.

Ines Wichert

Founder & Managing Director | Esendia

Ines is an occupational psychologist and founder of Esendia, a leadership and talent consultancy helping UK organisations build the leadership capability needed for a rapidly changing future. She works with CEOs, CHROs and senior leaders to strengthen top team effectiveness, accelerate leadership development, and create talent and succession strategies that support growth and transformation. Using a diagnostics-first approach, Ines helps organisations develop aligned leadership teams, build strategic leadership capability, and strengthen talent pipelines. Her work has delivered measurable results, including higher promotion rates, stronger succession outcomes, and significant growth through improved leadership alignment and performance.