This is definitely one for the calendar!
Network Ireland’s Cork branch will partner with Cork Chamber for its upcoming November event on November 2nd which will explore the topic of Entrepreneurship.
Taking place at the historic AIB building on South Mall, event attendees will have the opportunity to learn what drives entrepreneurs and explore in further detail the highs and lows of entrepreneurship from two guest speakers who will discuss their own experiences.
The first guest speaker taking to the stage on the night will be Andy Mackin, CEO of Mackin Group, which is headquartered in Cork and operates globally. It was originally established in 2004 as a Health & Safety company by Andy.
Today, Mackin is the group that contains two thriving companies, both steered by Andy: Mackin EHS, an evolution of the initial business; and Mackin Talent, a global talent solutions company with significant presence in North America, as well offices in EMEA and APAC.
Andy has achieved widespread recognition for his professional achievements, as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist in 2020, a Magnate 100 Member and a Founding Board Member of the Irish Connecticut Business Council.
Ahead of the event, Mr. Mackin said: “I’m honoured to be invited to speak at this joint event between Cork Chamber and Network Cork. I was asked to give an honest account about the highs and lows of being an entrepreneur and I look forward to sharing my story.”
Also speaking on the night will be Loretta Kennedy, founder of Mamabear Foods Ltd. This Cork woman’s unofficial entrepreneurial journey began at home with her three children in 2018. Passionate about leading a healthy lifestyle and using natural ingredients, Loretta was conscious of high sugar content in many store-bought ketchups, leading her to creating a homemade version.
Her sister’s encouragement drove Loretta to launch Mama Bear Foods with a vision of becoming “the go-to brand for your healthy family condiments and snacks.”
With experience across a broad range of industries from food to women’s health, Loretta is a part of the Grow with Aldi programme, and her products are on shelves in 137 Aldi stores nationwide. Her range has now expanded to include an equally healthy pasta sauce, as well as BBQ and roasted garlic ketchups.
Speaking about her appearance at the event, Ms. Kennedy said: “Being an entrepreneur is about so much more than strategy. It is about being disciplined and devoted to realizing your vision and walking yourself through hard and exhilarating times. It’s about navigating the rollercoaster ride that is entrepreneurship.”
Registration for the event is free for Network Cork members or €25 for non-members. Tickets for the event can be purchased in advance here.