AI in the workplace: time for HR to act on opportunities and challenges

CIPD Western Region is delighted to welcome you to its next event on Monday 27th April from 6pm – 8pm hosted by Genesys on Bonham Quay, Dock Road, Galway, H91 AX8R. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace is reshaping not just how we work, but what it means to work in 2026 and beyond, ushering in an era of human-machine partnership that is redefining the modern workplace.

The CIPD Ireland 2025 HR Practices survey presented a concerning picture in terms of alignment of thinking between HR and business leaders. Both Executives and HR identified Digitisation & Technology as one of their top five priorities over the next two years. However, Executives ranked it second, while HR ranked it last (fifth). At the same time, 38% of HR professionals cited inadequate systems/technology as a major constraint to AI adoption. Even more concerning, only 9% believed that productivity would significantly increase due to AI-related factors.

Join us to hear from our expert panel of speakers who will debate these findings and outline the positive and negative impact of the rapid use and adoption of AI in the workplace. You will also have the opportunity to engage with the speakers during a Q&A session after the panel discussion.

Panellists:

📌Martina Finnegan is HR Director at Genesys, with almost 15 years’ HR experience across aviation, manufacturing and global technology. During her time at Genesys, she has contributed to the evolution of the organisation’s people strategy in a fast-scaling, AI-driven environment. She holds a Business degree in Accountancy from ATU along with a CIPD qualification. Martina is particularly focused on how HR can enable innovation, support organisational growth, and create meaningful employee experiences in a rapidly changing workplace.

📌Mary Forde, Senior Occupational Health practitioner and founder of Occupational Health Consultancy Services (O.H.C.S.), Bringing over 20 years’ experience in operational and strategic OH leadership, Mary partners with organisations to design, review and deliver in service implementation to optimise Occupational Health strategies to ensure they are aligned to business performance and its requirements. As AI reshapes the workplace, Mary will reflect and focus on how organisations can thoughtfully integrate technology while maintaining a strong focus on employee health and wellbeing and responsible governance.

📌Marie Laffey, Head of the Career Development Centre at the University of Galway, Marie leads strategic, institution-wide careers and employability initiatives aligned to a rapidly evolving labour market. With over 20 years’ experience in the ICT sector, she brings strong technical expertise alongside a 12 years of professional experience in adult guidance and counselling. Marie focuses on integrating AI and emerging technologies into career development practice to enhance student outcomes and scale support. She works closely with academic and employer partners to ensure graduates are equipped with the skills and adaptability required for an AI-driven workforce.

Marie will outline the CDC approach to preparing students/graduates for the world of work using AI tools. She will outline the challenges for HR to identify real talent in their recruitment process impacted by the widespread use by applicants of AI tools.

Due to anticipated high demand for this event, please cancel your registration if you are no longer able to attend. This will allow us to offer your place to someone on the waiting list.

Note that this event is free to attend, but registration is required.

Please note: The CIPD in Ireland Region Committees are committed to improving sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint , and one of the ways we are aiming to do this, is by reducing waste at our events. If you are uncertain about your ability to attend in-person, we encourage you to inform us as early as possible, allowing us to make responsible arrangements and minimise any waste of materials, food and beverages.

Your support in this endeavour is greatly appreciated. Together, we can make a positive difference to our natural environment.

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