Network Ireland, the women’s business group, has set up a virtual branch to make its services available to women in business who are currently outside the reach of its 17 in-person branches.
The organisation is inviting women throughout the island of Ireland and beyond to avail of the new online resource.
Like the local divisions of Network Ireland, the virtual branch runs monthly events aimed at progressing the careers of women in business.
Members of the virtual branch are entitled to attend any Network Ireland local or national event of their choice, whether in-person or online.
Network Ireland National President, Linda Codoul, said that one of the aims of her presidency was to promote the growth and strength of the network.
“The virtual branch gives us an opportunity to reach out to women right across the country and even across the world,” Ms Codoul said.
“We are especially keen to welcome expats into our community, and to connect both with women who are eager to return to Ireland to work but also those who just want to maintain a professional link with home. We look forward to their international perspective enhancing what is already a very rich and diverse network,” she added.
Network Ireland’s national vice president, Amy O’Sullivan – who will assume the Network Ireland presidency next year – said the virtual branch meets on the second Monday of every month, with sessions designed to empower women and help advance their careers.
“They will also have access to our mentoring programme and the National Meet Up, which takes place at lunchtime on the first Friday of each month and allows members to share insights and test ideas whilst catching up and winding down towards the weekend,” she added.
AIB is the official partner of Network Ireland.
Ciara Ryan, Head of Wealth and General Insurance AIB, said the bank knows that the economic influence of Irish women is growing year on year.
“The peer-to-peer support that Network Ireland facilitates for this group is invaluable and I applaud this initiative to grow their reach and further bolster the endeavours of women in business both at home and abroad,” she stated.