The Institute of Directors Northern Ireland has announced the appointment of three new ambassadors as part of its aim to promote diversity and inclusion in business and support the professional development of young directors.

Frances Hill, Agent for Northern Ireland at Bank of England, and Paul Gillen, Partner and Employment Lawyer at Pinsent Masons will assume the role of Diversity and Inclusion ambassadors, while Brendan Digney, Founder of Machine Eye Technology, has been appointed as Young Directors ambassador.

IoD NI chairman Gordon Milligan commented:

“By taking on the voluntary role of ambassadors, Frances, Paul and Brendan will be embodying the true ethos of the IoD, connecting with, supporting and offering guidance to our members – both current and future.

“We recognise the real importance of diversity and inclusion in business. It has been proven that companies with more diverse boardrooms have seen better results, and we believe this creates a business environment that can drive growth. The IoD is also committed to doing all we can to aid young directors in their development, helping to secure the future of better business in Northern Ireland.

“Our three new ambassadors bring a wealth of experience to their roles and represent some of Northern Ireland’s most well-respected and pragmatic business leaders. I look forward to working alongside Frances, Paul and Brendan and would like to wish them the very best with their respective positions.”

Brendan Digney pictured with Gordon Milligan

IoD ambassadors are assigned to a sector or portfolio area that best aligns with their personal expertise and work to ensure that everything the IoD does places members first.

As Diversity and Inclusion ambassadors, Frances and Paul will help to ensure that the IoD continues to be an open and fair organisation that offers a warm welcome and equal opportunities for all directors to connect and improve.

In his role as Young Directors ambassador, Brendan will provide guidance and represent the interests of young directors within the IoD, supporting their leadership development and the growth of their organisations.

For more information about joining the IoD Northern Ireland, along with upcoming training opportunities and events please visit https://www.iod.com/events-community/regions/northern-ireland or call 028 9694 6740