Emmanuel (Manny) Adeleke is a partner in Deloitte, leading the delivery of artificial intelligence (AI) and data services across Ireland. He is responsible for leading AI transformation for some of the most prominent domestic and global organisations, delivering both business and societal impact. 

Manny serves as a trusted advisor to C-suite clients and senior management, guiding them from strategic intent through to implementation. He is a member of Deloitte’s European GenAI leadership team, shaping Deloitte’s service transformation and market activation strategies across Europe. 

Manny holds a degree in Business Information Systems from University College Cork and numerous accreditations across data, cloud, and technology domains. He is a member of the Industry Advisory Committee for Insight SFI Research Centre. Manny is also member of the Chartered Accountants Ireland Education Board. 

Manny is Deloitte Ireland’s Multicultural Network sponsor partner, leading numerous DEI initiatives both in the workplace and wider society.

As a Cork native and AI transformation leader, I am committed to supporting the Chamber in advancing the region’s economic prosperity during a pivotal period of digital transformation. My expertise in guiding organisations through AI and data-driven change, combined with my deep understanding of sectoral challenges across Ireland’s business landscape, positions me to contribute meaningfully to the Board’s strategic direction. Through my work with prominent domestic and global organisations, I have witnessed firsthand how technology and innovation drive competitive advantage and sustainable growth. I am eager to bring this perspective to the Chamber, helping our business community navigate the opportunities and complexities of the digital economy, whilst championing the inclusive, forward-thinking approach that has defined Cork’s business culture for over two centuries. My commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, alongside my academic and industry leadership roles, reflects a genuine passion for building stronger, more resilient business ecosystems, a vision I believe aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s mission to foster the growth and success of our vibrant business community. 

Conor is a recruitment leader operating across Munster, with a strong track record of connecting talent, businesses, and a particular focus on supporting regional growth in Cork. Through his work, he engages daily with both indigenous SMEs and multinational organisations, giving him a front-line perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the local business landscape.  

He is seeking to join the Cork Chamber Board to contribute to the continued development of Cork as a globally competitive, sustainable and inclusive business environment. Cork Chamber plays a vital role as the voice of business in the region, representing over 1,200 companies and influencing policy, investment and economic direction. Its strategic priorities around advocacy, sustainability, global engagement and member support closely align with Conor’s professional experience and his ambition to support Cork’s next phase of growth.  

Conor brings deep sectoral insight into the labour market, workforce planning and talent strategy. He understands that access to talent remains one of the most significant barriers to business growth and has extensive experience advising organisations on attracting, retaining and developing high-performing teams in an increasingly competitive market. He also has a strong appreciation of the challenges facing SMEs, including scaling, skills shortages and the need for greater alignment between education, industry and policy. 

In addition, Conor offers strong commercial acumen, stakeholder engagement expertise and a collaborative leadership style. He is passionate about ensuring Cork continues to thrive as a dynamic, globally connected city region and would welcome the opportunity to contribute to the Chamber’s strategic direction, represent its diverse membership and support sustainable economic growth.  

James Duggan is a Director and the Cork Office Leader for Arup, with over 30 years’ experience delivering complex building and infrastructure projects across Ireland and internationally. A graduate of UCC his career spans building engineering design and multi‑disciplinary project delivery across sectors including pharmaceutical, commercial, residential, retail, data centres, semi-conductors and healthcare. 

As one of Ireland’s fastest‑growing cities and regions, Cork faces both significant opportunity and challenge, and James brings deep expertise in the built environment to help ensure growth is supported by the right infrastructure, placemaking and long‑term planning. Throughout his career, he has worked at the intersection of business, development and the public realm, understanding how well‑planned infrastructure and high‑quality urban environments are fundamental to economic competitiveness and quality of life.  

As Cork Office Leader, James provides strategic leadership to large, diverse teams and works closely with clients, local authorities and stakeholders to deliver projects that support regional development. Throughout his career, he has sought to build trusted, long‑term partnerships and to deliver excellent outcomes for clients and communities alike. 

James is particularly passionate about the role of digital innovation and sustainability in shaping Cork’s future. He is focused on how new technologies, efficient design and sustainable practices can improve productivity, future‑proof infrastructure and create opportunities for businesses of all sizes. 

James is seeking election to the Cork Chamber Board to contribute his experience in the built environment, strategic leadership and governance and his global perspective gained from working with international clients. If elected, he will bring a collaborative, solutions‑focused approach to the Board, supporting Cork Chamber’s ambition to ensure Cork continues to grow as a dynamic, competitive and attractive place to do business, live and work. 

A proud Cork native, Donal Kelleher is the Site Lead at MSD Brinny, where he leads a high-performing team delivering innovative biotech solutions that make a meaningful difference for patients worldwide. 

With over 20 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry — the vast majority spent in Cork — Donal joined MSD Brinny in 2001 as a Project Engineer and has since progressed through senior leadership roles spanning engineering, operations, quality management, and global external manufacturing. He is a member of the MSD Ireland Country Leadership Team, bringing broad expertise across R&D, manufacturing, supply chain, and sustainability, underpinned by advanced qualifications in engineering and management. 

As MSD celebrates 50 years as one of Ireland’s largest employers and investors, Donal has been central to the company’s Cork growth story and made a significant, lasting contribution to Ireland’s export economy. Equally, he has been a driving force behind MSD’s local sustainability agenda, championing initiatives that reduce environmental impact and embed responsible business practices across site operations. 

As a prospective Chamber Board member, Donal is passionate about promoting workforce development, championing innovation, and attracting strategic investment to the region. He is equally committed to advocating for Ireland’s competitiveness and advancing sustainability — priorities that take on added significance as Ireland prepares for its Presidency of the European Council from July to December 2026, a pivotal moment for industry engagement and advocacy. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Donal is a committed advocate for community engagement. He has championed meaningful charity partnerships, including Daffodil Day with the Irish Cancer Society, and actively encourages employees to give back through MSD’s Volunteer Week and Cork-based community initiatives. 

Outside of work, Donal enjoys time with his family, following GAA, attending live music, and embracing everything Cork’s outdoor lifestyle has to offer. 

With deep roots in Cork, a distinguished career in one of Ireland’s most important industries, and a genuine commitment to the region’s future, Donal Kelleher would be a valuable and energetic addition to the Cork Chamber Board. 

As a Tax Partner with KPMG in Cork, Michael has worked closely with businesses of all sizes across the region for over 20 years and has seen first-hand the importance of strong advocacy, collaboration and practical delivery in supporting sustainable business growth.

Michael is a strong supporter of Cork Chamber’s strategic focus on securing Cork’s future through the timely delivery of housing, transport and enabling infrastructure – including renewable energy development, grid connectivity and the port infrastructure required to support offshore energy and long-term sustainable investment. He believes these foundations are essential to Cork’s competitiveness and continued economic development.

As a long-standing member of Cork Chamber, Michael has contributed to its work, including serving as Chair of the Chamber’s Fiscal Services Group, assisting with Pre-Budget submissions and authoring a joint Cork Chamber / Construction Industry Federation feasibility study on apartment viability in Cork City. This experience reflects his belief in evidence-based advocacy and practical policy solutions.

Most recently, Michael supported the Cork Company of the Year Awards, presenting the Large Company of the Year Award at the Annual Chamber Dinner.  The awards, sponsored by KPMG demonstrate its commitment to Cork Chamber and its members.

Professionally, he works with multinational, Irish-headquartered and family-owned businesses across a wide range of sectors, including energy and infrastructure. Michael’s work focuses on delivering clarity, supporting sustainable growth and helping organisations navigate regulatory and economic change – experience that he believes aligns closely with Cork Chamber’s role as the voice of business in Cork.

If elected, Michael will bring a strong understanding of business, fiscal policy and infrastructure to support Cork Chamber’s mission: advocating effectively for members, supporting SMEs and helping position Cork as a competitive, sustainable and globally connected region.

He notes that he would be honoured to contribute his experience and energy to the Board.

Chris has been Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and a member of the Executive Committee at Uisce Éireann, Ireland’s national water utility, since 2021. He began his career at PWC and brings over two decades of experience in large-scale strategic financial management, corporate leadership, mergers and acquisitions, financial planning, cost control and regulatory reporting. He has a strong track record in driving operational efficiency across the utilities, infrastructure and renewables sectors. 

Prior to joining Uisce Éireann, Chris held a number of senior finance roles at Ervia, Ireland’s former gas and water utility, including Group Financial Controller. In these roles, he played a pivotal part in overseeing complex financial operations and major infrastructure programmes, most notably as Project Director of the high-profile Bord Gáis Energy sale. 

In his current role, his priority is steering the organisation through the financial management and governance of a record €12bn investment in water services infrastructure over the next five years. 

Chris is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland and holds a Master of Accounting from University College Dublin, as well as a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork. He lives in Clonakilty with his family and is actively involved in the local community, particularly through local GAA and hockey clubs.  

A Cork native, Chris is deeply committed to the continued development and prosperity of the region. Through his professional experience, he recognises the importance of coordinated action, long-term strategy and a strong collective voice to ensure Cork 

Dr JB McCarthy is seeking election to the Cork Chamber Board to drive a more strategic, results-oriented partnership between University College Cork and its diverse business community. As Vice Dean for Internationalisation and External Engagement within CUBS, he leads the school’s global strategy, alumni and industry partnerships—a role that aligns directly with the Chamber’s mission to lead a transforming and ambitious Cork. 

JB’s candidacy is built on a “20/20” perspective: nearly 20 years in the high-tech industry, including five years based at the EMC U.S. Corporate HQ, followed by nearly 20 years in leadership at UCC. This dual background allows him to understand both the high-pressure demands of global multinationals based in Cork and the strategic potential of academia. He is motivated to ensure that the Chamber’s “Securing Cork’s Future” agenda is supported by a world-class talent pipeline and international connectivity. 

JB brings a practising academic approach to the Board, combining operational execution with strategic foresight: 

• Global Engagement: Leading international expansion for CUBS, particularly in high-growth markets (North America, China, India and the Middle East). JB will leverage academic and UCC alumni networks to amplify Cork’s international influence and investment appeal. 

• High-Tech & Innovation: Having managed global IT portfolios and M&A integrations, he offers practical insights into Digital Transformation, Analytics, and AI, helping Chamber members navigate the complexities of the modern economy and strengthen engagement with academic and research organisations. 

• Talent & Skills: As Vice Dean, JB is dedicated to engaging with the Chamber to ensure our workforce is future-ready, addressing the Chamber’s priority on talent and skills. 

JB is committed to a collaborative, purposeful approach to ensure Cork continues to thrive as an ambitious, sustainable, and globally connected city-region. 

Maria McKnight is a Senior Bank Manager with Bank of Ireland in Cork City, bringing over 30 years of experience across personal and business banking. She has strong business acumen and significant expertise in Finance, risk and compliance, relationship management, and guiding customers through key financial decisions. Maria is guided by strong personal integrity, consistently demonstrating fairness in her decision making and a genuine commitment to supporting customers in achieving the best possible outcomes.  

A qualified secondary school teacher, Maria combines her substantial technical knowledge with strong people skills and a collaborative leadership style. She has a proven track record in building high-performing teams, developing people, and delivering results through effective relationship management and clear execution. 

Maria holds a Professional Banker designation from University College Dublin, along with a Graduate Diploma in Accounting and IT from UCC. She is actively engaged in UCC initiatives and supports multiple programmes, reflecting her commitment to education, inclusion, and sustainability. She is an advocate for the value of apprenticeships for business and wider society and has close collaboration with the further education colleges in Cork City.  

As a lifelong resident of Cork, Maria is passionate about the city’s continued growth as a vibrant, inclusive place to live, work, and do business. On a personal level she is a parent to two young adults and acutely aware of the challenges that this generation face as they navigate the world of education, housing, and the modern workplace and feels a responsibility to make an impact in accessibility and inclusion.  

Maria would bring deep expertise in risk and compliance, a strong focus on supporting sustainable business growth, and a practical, reality-based approach to decision-making to the Cork Chamber Board. She is committed to promoting Cork as a leading business destination and to working collaboratively to deliver tangible value for members and the wider community.  

Seán Murphy is the Managing Director of Ronayne Shipping Ltd (RSL, part of Mainport), a leading logistics and port services provider based in Cork. He brings over 25 years’ experience across the maritime, supply chain and wider commercial sectors. His career began at the age of 20 working with Indian steel fabricators in New York, contributing to projects including the construction of the gorilla enclosure in the Bronx Zoo. He later returned to Ireland and joined Leeside Shipping, where he developed expertise in container control, customs formalities and export management, before broadening his commercial experience in a national sales role. He joined RSL in 2007. 

Under his leadership, the company has developed strong operational and strategic capabilities across multiple industries that underpin the regional economy. His experience includes the handling of bulk and timber products supporting the agricultural sector, bulk road salt distribution for national infrastructure, and the importation of thousands of vehicles annually through the Port of Cork for the Munster market. He has also overseen complex project cargo movements, including wind turbine components and distillery infrastructure. 

RSL has expanded its footprint to over 120,000 sq. ft. of warehousing across five Cork locations, with strong competencies in procurement, inventory management and integrated supply chain solutions. The company operates a global freight forwarding service, managing import and export flows across international markets and numerous supply chains. 

Seán has developed a distinct advantage in Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE), having facilitated previous wind energy projects and built a strong understanding of Ireland’s national targets and Cork’s strategic role as a maritime hub in the transition to a sustainable future. 

He is a member of the International General Stevedoring Council, where he actively benchmarks operations against leading global port service providers. Combined with his extensive stakeholder engagement experience, Seán would bring practical insight, strong regional knowledge and strategic value to the Cork Chamber Board, supporting sustainable economic growth and enhancing Cork’s competitive position. 

Dr Noel Murray is Dean of the Faculty of Business at Munster Technological University, leading a dynamic academic community dedicated to preparing graduates for an evolving business landscape while contributing to regional economic development. His career spans both industry and academia, providing a balanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing organisations today. 

Prior to this role, Dr Murray served as Head of the Department of Tourism & Hospitality at MTU (since 2016), working closely with industry partners to enhance programme relevance and innovation. Earlier experience includes commercial leadership roles with Kerry Group and O&B Recruitment, where he developed expertise in sales, talent development, workforce planning, and labour market dynamics. These insights continue to inform his commercially grounded, people-focused leadership approach. 

Dr Murray holds a PhD in Strategic Management, alongside postgraduate qualifications in marketing, leadership, people & culture, education, and coaching. His research and professional work focus on inter-organisational (business) networks, sustainable business, leadership development, and enterprise growth. He has also secured significant external funding to support initiatives that connect education with real-world business needs. 

A strong advocate for collaboration between industry and education, Dr Murray is committed to developing talent, supporting innovation, and ensuring regional competitiveness. Through his role at MTU, he engages with a broad network of stakeholders locally, nationally, and internationally. 

He would welcome the opportunity to join the Cork Chamber Board, contributing to the continued growth of Cork’s business community, strengthening enterprise–education links, and supporting sustainable economic development and innovation.