The CAB Sub-committee welcomed a new convenor this year, with Neil Gamble taking over from Jason McIntosh, and also welcomed a number of new members. We are delighted that the sub-committee has grown further in September 2026, with Kirsten McGarrity, James Woods and Andrew Boomer. We would also like to thank Rebecca Fulton for her contribution over recent years.
Over the last few months, the CAB sub-committee held a company visit to Nomadic Watches, Northern Ireland’s internationally recognised watch brand. The event, which was hosted by their founder Peter McAuley, was a fascinating insight into how to scale a business from early dreams through to one of the premier brands to launch from the island in recent years. As well as sharing his own story, Peter discussed their approach to creativity and strategic innovation, highlighting the great work that his team do to deliver excellent customer service every time.
As well as company visits, the sub-committee hosted a range of webinars, including cyber-security, ESG and mental-health and wellbeing, all of which were well attended and highly informative.
The sub-committee also held its ‘Summer’ Lunch in September this year, rescheduled from its traditional June slot, and welcomed Bridgene Keeley (nee McKeever), Director and second-generation family member from McKeever Hotel Group, owner of seven hotels across Northern Ireland and Donegall. Despite the new date, the event was still sold-out, with attendees enjoying a fantastic meal and deep insights from Bridgene on the opportunities and challenges facing the hospitality sector at present.
Between now and Christmas, the CAB sub-committee are planning several company visits including the UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of fitness and gym equipment, BLK BOX, and Bellamianta, who produce luxury tanning, skincare and beauty essentials across the UK and Ireland. Additional webinars will also be held across a range of topics including value creation and evolving finance functions in an AI-native world.
If there are topics that you would like the sub-committee to address, please do get in touch.