Dublin, Ireland, April 30, 2025 – The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has announced the appointment of Alison Hodgson as its new Market Director for Ireland, succeeding Mary Connaughton, who held the position for over a decade. This leadership transition marks a new chapter in CIPD’s mission to strengthen the people profession in Ireland.
Alison Hodgson, a Chartered Companion of the CIPD, was recognised among the 50 most influential CHROs in Ireland in 2024. She brings extensive HR and organisational development experience from senior leadership roles across multiple sectors. Most recently, she served as Consulting Partner of Transformation, HR and Change at RSM Ireland, where she played a key role in guiding organisations through complex people-focused transformations.
Alison Hodgson, incoming Market Director for Ireland, said, “This is a pivotal time for the people profession and the world of work. Ireland has a vibrant and evolving HR landscape and I’m excited to support our members and partners in navigating the challenges and opportunities we face.”
As Market Director, Alison will lead CIPD’s strategic growth and engagement efforts in Ireland, with a strong focus on skills development, wellbeing, and flexible working. She will oversee the Dublin team and collaborate with stakeholders across the region to influence policy and further develop the profession’s impact.
The appointment comes at a time when CIPD is significantly expanding its presence in Ireland. The institute has partnered with organisations such as the Irish Civil Service and Irish Rail to develop people standards frameworks. A newly formed Eastern Region Committee has also been established to support local member engagement and networking.
Peter Cheese, Chief Executive, CIPD, commented, “This is a crucial time for the profession in Ireland. We look forward to working with Alison to lead in this space. I’m also pleased that we’ll continue to work closely with Mary, who has been a fantastic ambassador.”
Mary Connaughton, the outgoing Market Director, will transition to a new part-time role as Strategic Engagement Director for CIPD, where she will focus on building relationships with senior stakeholders and enhancing CIPD’s influence across Ireland. Reflecting on her new role, Mary Connaughton shared, “I’m very much looking forward to welcoming Alison and getting started on my new challenge. The role will allow me to focus on strengthening relationships with key stakeholders and clients, helping to amplify our reputation and impact across Ireland.”
This transition comes ahead of CIPD’s largest-ever Annual Conference and Exhibition in Ireland, scheduled for 15 May at the RDS in Dublin, which will bring together the profession to discuss themes such as managing disruption and delivering meaningful impact.
About CIPD
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is the professional body for HR and people development. With a global community of over 160,000 members, the CIPD has been setting the benchmark for excellence in people and organisation development for more than 100 years. A respected Royal Charter organisation, CIPD is committed to championing better work and working lives through research, professional standards, and practical guidance. As an independent, not-for-profit entity, it influences policy and drives progress across workplaces worldwide.
Read Also : HR Is Not a Support Function—It’s the CEO’s Most Powerful Growth Engine
The Fine Balance: Navigating Work, Life, and Mental Wellbeing
From Gatekeeping to Gateway Building: Transforming How Organisations Create Access
Leadership In Talent Management: A Powerful Driver for Economic Growth
