Network Ireland to host Local Enterprise Week event in Cork

Mon, 02 Mar, 2026 - 13:15

Rachel Lysaght

Network Ireland Cork, in partnership with two local enterprise offices, has announced a collaborative, business-focused event as part of Local Enterprise Week 2026.

The event will feature keynote speaker Marie Gleeson, former naval captain and managing director of NavMar Leadership, who will share her journey from military leadership to entrepreneurship, offering insights on resilience, adaptability, and leading with confidence in times of change. She will also explore key themes including decision-making under pressure, building resilient teams, and the critical role of collaboration in achieving sustainable success.

The evening will be hosted by MC Louise Kane Buckley, who is the founder of Loula Natural.

Ms Kane Buckley will lead a discussion with Ms Gleeson following the keynote address, where attendees can ask questions on leadership lessons, personal growth, and navigating challenges in business.

Experience

Network Ireland Cork president Diane Higgins said leadership is built over time from experience, resilience and courage.

“Marie has these in spades and we are looking forward to hearing how she has built her leadership and transferred these insights into building her business,” said Ms Higgins.

“This event is a collaboration with LEO Cork City and LEO South Cork and we are proud to be a part of enterprise week in a beautiful venue in Cork city.”

Ita Madden, senior enterprise development officer at LEO Cork City said that supporting women in business is “an important part of what we do, and this collaboration gives us another opportunity to help local entrepreneurs build their skills and confidence to help them grow their business”.