The Ulster Rugby Business Club, in association with A&L Goodbody, hosted its season-closing luncheon at Kingspan Stadium on Friday, bringing together over 130 business and sporting leaders for a conversation under the broad theme of “The Power of Communication.”
Held in the A&L Goodbody Lounge, the event featured a keynote panel discussion moderated by BBC sports broadcaster Nicola McCarthy, and including Rob Hartnett, CEO and Founder of Sport for Business; Aoife Clarke, Director of Communications at the IRFU; and Brin Cunningham, General Manager at Ulster Rugby.
Over an hour, they explored how clear and authentic communication plays a central role in both sports and business success.
Rob Hartnett offered compelling insights into how the sports industry can balance the rise of AI and digital transformation with the irreplaceable impact of in-person interaction.
Drawing on Sport for Business’s unique positioning at the intersection of sport and corporate Ireland, he spoke about the importance of showing up, being present, and nurturing real relationships in a world that’s increasingly automated.
“AI is like rain – it’s coming whether we like it or not,” he said. “And like the rain, it has many positives. But there’s no substitute for being in the room, meeting people, and having meaningful conversations. That’s where trust and opportunity are built.”
His comments echoed the ethos of the Business Club itself, which continues to grow as a vital platform for Ulster Rugby’s commercial partners, sponsors, and supporters.
The lunch further strengthened the ties between Ulster Rugby and the regional business community.
The Business Club has provided a platform over the first five sessions of its inaugural full season, where corporate partners, club management, and sponsors can mingle and find plenty of common ground.
Great networking at Ulster Rugby Business Club on Friday with an excellent line-up of speakers,” said Rob McConnell, CEO of the Waterfront Hall.
“The panel discussion on the ‘Power of Communication’ couldn’t have been more timely,” added Conor Houston of Vulcan Consulting.
“In an era increasingly shaped by AI and rapid technological change, it was reassuring to hear that authentic, human communication remains our most powerful tool for leadership and connection.”
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This was a really enjoyable event, the last for the season at Ulster Rugby, every one of which has been heaviliy oversubscribed in terms of business leadership interest.
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