New Chambers Ireland President puts competitiveness at the top of business agenda

New President, Natalie McGuinness, says Ireland must respond to global economic change and rapid advances in AI while creating the conditions for businesses to invest and grow

23 September 2026

Chambers Ireland, Ireland’s largest business network, has elected Natalie McGuinness as its new President. Her appointment comes at a critical time for Irish enterprise, as Chambers Ireland put cost pressures and international competitiveness at the centre of their agenda.

Natalie McGuinness, commercial strategist and independent non-executive director, will represent 37 member Chambers and more than 9,000 businesses across the country.

Speaking on her election, Natalie McGuinness, President of Chambers Ireland, said:

“Ireland has a strong economy, but our competitiveness cannot be taken for granted. Changes in technology, along with global economic and geopolitical shifts are fundamentally changing the way businesses invest and grow. 

My priority as President will be to ensure the experience of businesses, large and small, is heard in economic policymaking. Our focus will be practical in terms of what needs to change to help businesses innovate and succeed both locally and internationally.”

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, welcomed the appointment:

“Natalie understands the pressures businesses are facing and brings strong commercial, governance and Chamber experience to the role. Government needs to tackle the cost of doing business, infrastructure delivery and giving businesses confidence in an increasingly uncertain global trading environment. If Ireland is to continue to attract investment and support business growth, we need to get the fundamentals right.”

Talbot also paid tribute to outgoing President, Margaret Considine:

“Margaret has provided outstanding leadership over the past two years, making a lasting contribution to Chambers Ireland and the wider Chamber movement. We are deeply grateful for her vision, dedication and leadership.”

Ann-Marie O’Sullivan, CEO of Cork based AM O’Sullivan PR was elected Deputy President, while Oren Byrne, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber of Commerce and Jonathan Donnelly, Bray Chamber of Commerce were elected to the Board of Chambers Ireland.

ENDS