2026 Speakers
Aaron Morris joined Gas Networks Ireland in August 2023 as a business development
technical consultant.
Aaron provides technical support to the connections teams in Residential, Small-Medium
Enterprises (SME’s) and the Large Industrial & Commercial (LIC) sectors, focusing on
Biomethane, BioCNG and Hydrogen to decarbonise the network.
Prior to joining GNI, Aaron worked as a Design Engineer at Unitherm Heating Systems Ltd,
designing and supplying heat-pump based heating systems.
Aaron holds an Honours Degree in Energy Engineering from Galway-Mayo Institute of
Technology, now known as Atlantic Technological University (ATU).
You can see Aaron speaking at HEX26 on Wednesday, 11th February at the following
times:
The Business of Hospitality stage
12pm – Panel Discussion: Circular Hospitality: innovations in waste reduction and
resource management
The Future of Hospitality stage
3pm – Standalone speaker: Decarbonisation of the Gas Network
Adrian O’Sullivan
Adrian, a native of West Cork, has spent over 35 years combining property development with
ownership of bars, hotels, and nightclubs across Ireland, Germany, the Netherlands, and the
United States. This experience has made him acutely aware of the importance of maximising
gross margins through strong inventory control.
Adrian is Barflo’s Marketing Director, and his extensive international experience in the
hospitality industry perfectly positions him to take the Barflo system to a global market.
In addition to a broad media portfolio, Aisling creates conscious and considered content solutions, events and dedicated strategic frameworks for her clients. Aisling’s belief is simple: you cannot change your behaviours without changing your mindset. Wellness is a mindset, a multi-faceted, modern lifestyle of balance, coping and joy. Her mission is to educate, motivate, create and curate a modern wellness lifestyle that is achievable by all. With a media career spanning almost a decade, she cherishes the fact that she has become a mainstay in homes and on commutes and walks each week. She is so very grateful to reach over 300,000 people weekly through TV, radio, social media and podcast appearances. What a lot of people don’t know is that Aisling spent the last decade travelling the world and learning about best practices in global food models, training in the psychology and physiology of feeding, and being only a handful of people in Europe trained in the MB-EAT Mindful Eating Programme. As well as completing my M.Sc in Culinary Innovation and FDP. Her recent additions of training in Workplace Wellness at TU and Organisational Leadership with Oxford’s Saïd Business School. Spending the last 15 years teaching, creating, learning, consulting and delivering on all things food and wellness has been a pure joy. Aisling has the privilege of having a knowledgeable, broad and expert background with expertise as a TV cook, food media broadcaster, educator, feeding therapist, mindful eating coach, keynote speaker, and food & wellness consultant (Workplace Wellness at TU and Organisational Leadership with Oxford’s Saïd Business School). Aisling loved her cookery school; teaching thousands to cook, and creating educational programmes, campaigns and content for international brands. Aisling is incredibly proud of the Enrich, a global first food-centric workplace programme she created for KSG. This programme now serves thousands of people with nutrient-dense food helping them support their individual wellness goals
She is a journalist and editor with over 20 years’ experience specialising in food, drink, travel and hospitality. Formerly editor of Food & Wine Ireland, Easy Food Magazine and Yes Chef Magazine, Dee is currently freelance and has monthly columns with Irish Country Magazine and TheTaste.ie. In 2022, Dee founded Scoop: Irish Food Stories, an annual food magazine published by Nine Bean Rows Books. The first two issues were themed ‘What is Irish Food?’ and ‘Eat Your Feelings’, and the third issue will be published later in Spring 2026. The events side of the magazine is ‘scoop and a yarn’ where Dee hosts in-person storytelling events, chatting with people in the hospitality community and the audience, creating fun experiences of banter and craic. Scoop and a yarn participated in the Ballymaloe Food Festival, International Literature Festival Dublin, Dingle Food Festival, and Samhain Festival of Food and Culture, among others. Dee co-authored Blasta Book #5 SOUP with former Spice Bags Podcast co-hosts Mei Chin and Blanca Valencia, which won Best Food Podcast in the Irish Food Writing Awards in 2021 and 2023. Currently, she is co-host of Beár Bia Podcast with Oisín Davis, which focuses on Irish food and drink pairings, and was shortlisted for Best Food Podcast 2025. She regularly hosts stages or participates in lineups at festivals around the country and has been a keynote speaker at events and conferences, such as for Fáilte Ireland Dublin. Dee is a proud member of the Irish Food Writers’ Guild and a judge of Blas na hÉireann.
Jeeny Maltese, Chef and culinary expert
Chef Jeeny Maltese is an internationally recognised culinary expert, best known for her vibrant presence on Irish television, including RTE One’s The Today
Show and Virgin Media’s Six O’clock Show. Born with a passion for food, Jeeny trained in international cuisines, with Michelin standard experience, developing a distinctive cooking style, blending global influences with healthy, nutritious recipes. Her culinary philosophy revolves around fresh, seasonal ingredients, emphasising wellness and the positive impact of mindful eating. This unique approach has resonated with diverse audiences, making her a favourite in both professional and foodie culinary worlds. With an exciting career, Jeeny has become a sought-after celebrity chef, wellness advocate & corporate chef consultant. Jeeny’s journey into the public eye began with her guest appearances on Irish TV, where her charismatic personality and culinary skills quickly captivated viewers. Chef Jeeny has been an important ambassador in significant campaigns for Irish food and European Sustainable food campaigns. In addition to her television career, Jeeny Maltese is highly regarded in the corporate sector, where she leads cooking demonstrations and workshops designed to promote health and wellness in the workplace. Her expertise in corporate wellness has made her a go-to consultant for companies seeking to foster a healthier lifestyle for their employees.
Chef and presenter, Anna Haugh is the chef patron of Myrtle Restaurant and The Wee Sister Wine Bar in Chelsea, London. She started professionally
cooking at Cathal Brugha Street, Dublin. Anna’s apprenticeship took place at L’Ecrivain in Dublin and she went on to work in Paris for Gualtiero
Marchesi. When Anna first moved to London she worked at Pied à Terre under Shane Osborne, then at The Square under Philip Howard. She was a director of foods and head chef for Rocket Food before becoming head chef at London House for Gordon Ramsey. Anna
opened Myrtle in 2019. One of her ambitions was to introduce the people of London to a sophisticated
taste of Ireland – Irish produce is the heartbeat of the menu. Anna’s debut cookbook Cooking with Anna: Modern Home Cooking with Irish Heart was released in May 2024. Anna’s broadcasting career to date includes three series of Royal Recipes and Ready Steady Cook, both for the BBC. Anna is the resident chef on Morning Live and a regular chef on Saturday Kitchen and Sunday Brunch. In late 2022, Anna was announced as the new Masterchef: The Professionals judge. In 2025 Anna filmed her own debut series for the BBC Anna Haugh’s Big Irish Food Tour and was announced as one of the new Masterchef judges
alongside Grace Dent. Chef and presenter, Anna Haugh is the chef patron of Myrtle Restaurant and The Wee Sister Wine Bar in Chelsea, London. She started professionally cooking at Cathal Brugha Street, Dublin. Anna’s apprenticeship took place at L’Ecrivain in Dublin and she went on to work in Paris for Gualtiero
Marchesi. When Anna first moved to London she worked at Pied à Terre under Shane Osborne, then at The Square under Philip Howard. She was a director of foods and head chef for Rocket Food before becoming head chef at London House for Gordon Ramsey. Anna
opened Myrtle in 2019. One of her ambitions was to introduce the people of London to a sophisticated
taste of Ireland – Irish produce is the heartbeat of the menu. Anna’s debut cookbook Cooking with Anna: Modern Home Cooking with Irish Heart was released in May 2024. Anna’s broadcasting career to date includes three series of Royal Recipes and Ready Steady Cook, both for the BBC. Anna is the resident chef on Morning Live and a regular chef on Saturday Kitchen and Sunday Brunch. In late 2022, Anna was announced as the new Masterchef: The Professionals judge. In 2025 Anna filmed her own debut series for the BBC Anna Haugh’s Big Irish Food Tour and was announced as one of the new Masterchef judges
alongside Grace Dent.
Annie Dunne Founder, The Art of GRATE Food
Annie Dunne is the founder of The Art of GRATE Food, a food innovation and insights consultancy helping businesses anticipate change, harness emerging trends, and translate consumer insight into commercial success. With over 25 years’ experience across food manufacturing and retail in the UK and Ireland, Annie is recognised as a trusted authority on food and drink trends, product innovation, and strategic growth.
Her career highlights include leading the revitalisation of the Harrods Food Halls in London and spearheading the development and international rollout of its own-label food ranges. This hands-on experience at the forefront of premium retail gives Annie a deep understanding of how global trends, consumer behaviour, and brand strategy intersect.
Annie specialises in guiding businesses through the complexities of future-focused product development, trend-led innovation, and brand positioning. Through consulting, mentoring, and project leadership, she helps organisations identify what’s next in food and drink—and how to act on it.
A highly experienced speaker and moderator, Annie regularly contributes to industry conversations on food and drink trends, sustainability, innovation, and evolving consumer expectations. Known for her practical insights and engaging style, she brings clarity, relevance, and real-world perspective to discussions on the future of hospitality and food.
Guest panellist as part of The Future Trends Shaping Hospitality talk at 10.30am on The Future of Hospitality stage on Tuesday 10th February.
With more than 25 years’ experience across Ireland and the UK, Cathy is an accomplished PR and communications professional with a strong track record in both in-house and agency environments. She has planned and delivered impactful marketing and PR campaigns across the food, health, FMCG, and corporate sectors.
Cathy most recently spent nine years as Head of Communications at the National Dairy Council. Trained originally as a chef in London, her career is underpinned by a lifelong passion for food, hospitality, and the stories behind great brands. You can catch Cathy on stage on The Future of Hospitality stage on Wednesday, 11th
February at 12.30pm talking about Key Factors in Ensuring your Brand Story’s Success
Ali Dunworth is a food, drink and travel writer, consultant, and events curator with a strong interest in local food and Irish stories. In 2024, she published her debut book, A Compendium of Irish Pints: The Culture, Customs and Craic. She also writes The Kitchen Press, a mostly weekly Substack newsletter covering
food, drink, and hospitality news. Her diverse background includes working in hospitality and behind the scenes in food television, alongside freelance contributions to The Irish Times, Sunday Times, Irish Independent, Food & Wine Magazine, RTÉ Radio and more. Guest panellist as part of The Trends Shaping Hospitality talk on Tuesday 10th February at 10.30am on The Future of Hospitality stage
Follow Ali on Instagram @alidunworth
Edward Benn
Edward Benn is Co-Founder and CEO of Barflo, a technology platform helping bars and pubs gain real control over every pour. With over 25 years’ experience in software and entrepreneurship, Ed specialises in applying modern technology to solve long-standing challenges
in the hospitality industry. At Barflo, Ed leads global product and engineering teams focused on delivering real-time insights
that bring clarity and accountability to bar operations. His mission is to help hospitality businesses protect margins, control inventory, and run more profitable venues through smart, practical technology.
Elaine Burke is a journalist and broadcaster who provides clear, plain-speaking commentary on science and technology developments in print, online, on TV and radio, and in podcasts. She is the resident tech expert for Ireland AM and a regular contributor to tech stories for shows across RTÉ TV and radio, TodayFM, Newstalk and others, even making appearances on international news networks such as BBC, Al Jazeera and CNN. She hosts both the For Tech’s Sake and Connected AI podcasts and is a regular contributor to The Business Post. Winner of the inaugural Women in Business Journalism Award in 2022, Elaine is passionate about science communication and delivering expert-led content in accessible ways. Catch Elaine speaking at HEX 2026 on The Future of Hospitality Stage at 2pm on the topic: Real Connections: Mastering Authentic Social Media for Hospitality
Follow her on Instagram @itselaineburke
EElizabeth Dayspring is a Nigerian-born culinary innovator and the creative force behind Taste of Culture, a brand dedicated to celebrating and elevating Afro-Caribbean cuisine in Ireland. As one of the pioneers championing awareness and appreciation of Afro-Caribbean food across the country, Elizabeth has become a powerful voice for cultural diversity within the Irish hospitality scene. Her passion for showcasing authentic flavours and rich culinary traditions has earned her
international visibility, with features on major global television platforms that highlight her ability to tell meaningful cultural stories through food. Elizabeth’s inspiring journey has also led her to share the stage with some of Ireland’s most renowned chefs, including Neven Maguire, Tara Walker, and Aisling Larkin, further solidifying her position as a respected figure in the industry. Elizabeth continues to break new ground in shaping a more vibrant, inclusive, and diverse
food culture across Ireland. Through Taste of Culture, Elizabeth continues to empower communities, spark conversations, encourage collaborations, and community engagement, and open doors for greater representation within the culinary world. Driven by purpose and creativity, she remains committed to using food as a powerful bridge, connecting cultures, inspiring others, and enriching Ireland’s vibrant food landscape.
Join Elizabeth for her cooking demo on the Chefs Stage at 10.30am on Wednesday, 11th February
Fionnuala Carolan is Editor of Drinks Industry Ireland magazine, leading coverage and debate on the key issues impacting Ireland’s licensed trade.
She has extensive experience in trade publishing, having spent over six years as Editor of leading retail trade title ShelfLife, where she was named Business Magazines Editor of the Year by Magazines Ireland in 2010.
Her career also includes senior communications and broadcast journalism roles, including Communications Manager with BWG Foods, news broadcaster with 4FM and Q102, and international journalism experience with the South China Morning Post.
Drinks Industry Ireland engages strongly with the drinks trade across print and digital platforms, reaching more than 45,000 monthly touchpoints.
You can see Fionnuala take part in a panel discussion on The Future of the Irish Pub on Tuesday, 10th February at 12pm on The Future of Hospitality stage.
Gerard Whelan is a founder of Sustainable Workwear, Ireland’s only workwear supplier focused exclusively on 🌿 Fairtrade, Organic and Recycled uniforms and merchandise. He works with Irish organisations across hospitality, retail, healthcare, facilities management et al to replace “fast fashion” uniforms with durable, ethically sourced alternatives that still meet real-world demands on comfort, laundering and cost.
Gerard partners with Fairtrade Ireland and other like-minded organisations to help businesses move from sustainability slogans to evidence-based action. He regularly supports organisations in aligning their workwear choices with ESG goals, CSRD reporting requirements and green public procurement criteria.
At Hex26, Gerard will share practical insights on “Fairtrade at Work” and how to initiate meaningful change, engage customers, and translate ethical commitments into credible, measurable practice across your organisation. His focus is simple: enabling Irish workplaces to embody their values in everyday operations and culture, rather than confining them to policy documents and promotional statements.
Catch Gerard on Wednesday, 11th February on The Business of Hospitality stage:
12pm – guest panellist as part of talk – Circular Hospitality: Innovations in waste reduction and resource management panel discussion
2.30pm – standalone speaker – Cotton Capital
Michael Collins is a former travel journalist, writer, content creator, and now a public relations and travel industry expert with over two decades of experience in the travel and tourism industry.
In 2000, Michael founded TravelMedia.ie, now one of Ireland’s leading travel PR and media agencies. From 2000 to 2009, he also served as publisher and editor of Backpacker Europe and Abroad magazines, while producing bespoke travel publications for clients including Stena Ferries and The Business Post.
A well-known voice in the Irish travel sector, Michael regularly appears on national radio, television, and in print as a travel expert. He also produces an industry podcast and creates travel content on YouTube. As a trusted advisor to international destinations, he previously served on the French Tourist Board’s International Advisory Committee.
Michael is a recognised speaker on travel media, digital marketing, and content creation, and has presented at major industry events worldwide, including ITB Berlin, TBEX, and the Society of American Travel Writers.
As Managing Director of TravelMedia.ie and TTR (Travel Trade Representation), Michael leads several of Ireland’s key travel industry events, including Meet the Media, MICE Meetup, USA Summer Soirée, and the TTR Road Shows, as well as delivering bespoke events for international clients.
TravelMedia.ie provides integrated digital PR and marketing services, including SEO, PPC and SEM, social media and YouTube management, content creation, video production, photography, and traditional PR.
In March 2025, Michael completed a three-month executive programme in Artificial Intelligence for Business at University College Dublin (UCD), further strengthening his expertise in applying AI to digital marketing and content strategy.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcollinstravel/
Website: https://www.travelmedia.ie/
You can see Michael take part in a panel discussion titled: Ireland 2030 at 11.30am on Wednesday, 11th February on The Future of Hospitality stage.
In this discussion, our panel of experts share insights on what might be coming down the line for Irish hospitality, food, drinks and tourism in the next 4 years and how to prepare for it.
Michael O’Donovan is the President of the Vintners Federation of Ireland. A proud Cork publican and third-generation publican at The Castle Inn, Michael brings years of experience, dedication, and passion to the role. As VFI President, Michael is committed to championing the pub, standing up for publicans
across
Nicky Logue started his career in hotels at the early age of 13 in County Clare and knew then this was going to be the career for him. Having finished secondary school, he knew Shannon College of Hotel Management was where he wanted to study and where he was accepted in 1991. During his four years in Shannon, Nicky trained in Ireland, Switzerland, Russia, and the UK. Nicky became General Manager of a 122-bedroom, 4-star hotel in the UK before he returned to graduate in 1995 from Shannon College – a first for Shannon College. Nicky continued to work in the UK for 10 years before returning to Ireland in 2003. Since then, he has managed Killiney Castle for 11 years, The Gibson Hotel for three years and joined the 5- star InterContinental Dublin in 2016, some 10
years ago. Nicky is a past President of the Irish Hospitality Institute and has served on the Council of the Irish Hotels Federation. He is also the Chairman of the Shannon College of Hotel Management Trust Board. He has been awarded Hotel Manager of the Year by the Irish Hospitality Institute. Catch Nicky at HEX26 speaking as part of a panel discussion titled: Ireland 2030 on The Future of Hospitality stage on Wednesday, 11th February at11.30am. In this discussion, our panel of experts will share insights on what might be coming down the line for Irish hospitality, food, drinks and tourism in the next four years and how to prepare for it.
From bouncer to brand owner, Oisín Davis has had a few different job titles in the hospitality and drinks industry. His 25 years of experience have stood him well,
though with his company, Great Irish Beverages, an agency dedicated to promoting and publicising Irish-made drinks. He’s travelled the world representing many of Ireland’s most loved drinks brands, and back home in Dublin, he’s run nationwide drinks festivals, won awards for his spirits writing for Food & Wine and is a best-selling author of his debut book, Irish Kitchen Cocktails. Catch Oisín’s talk ‘Upselling Irish Drinks in the Irish Hospitality Sector’ on Tuesday, 10th February at 2pm on The Future of Hospitality Stage.
Follow him @oisindavis and @greatirishbeverages
Sam Gaber works for Asytec Group as Global Business Development Manager, driving international growth and partnerships, and building and nurturing global
networks for sustainable business success. Over the past 9 years with ASYTEC group, Sam has spearheaded global growth initiatives, forging partnerships that spark joy and drive remarkable growth. Her approach is a unique combination of strategic analysis, project management, and deep cultural understanding that turns challenges into opportunities.
However, Sam’s expertise extends beyond traditional business strategies. Her true superpower lies in understanding people. Fueled by a deep curiosity about the human psyche, she excels in empathising with others, allowing me to craft solutions that benefit everyone involved.
Sam is taking part in HEX2026 as a panellist in the New Technology Behind the Bar Counter conversation at 2.30pm on The Future of Hospitality Stage; Tuesday, 10th February.
Shane Smith is an award-winning Irish pastry chef with over 23 years of experience working in some of Ireland’s most celebrated pastry kitchens. He is also the owner of the Shane Smith Online Cookery School, a regular contributor to The Today Show on RTÉ One, and is currently Brand Ambassador for Kenwood World and Gem Pack Foods.
Don’t miss Shane’s cooking demonstration on Tuesday 10th February at 2pm on the
Chefs Stage.
Follow him on Instagram @chefshanesmith
Tom Cleary of Temple Bar was elected as the Chair of the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA) in May 2025. Tom has been a career publican, originally working with his parents in The Dropping Well, Milltown, before acquiring The Temple Bar in 1992. He has since developed it into an iconic Dublin pub, focusing on authentic Irish Hospitality and live traditional music. Tom has also expanded his business interests into hotels, tourist merchandise, cafés and Irish whiskey.
Vivienne Gleeson, PR Consultant and Mentor With almost 20 years of experience in public relations, I began my career in agency roles before establishing my consultancy in 2018. Growing up working in my family’s pub gave me an early understanding of the challenges and realities faced by small and family-run
businesses. I have worked with brands including United Airlines, Dr Oetker Pizza and Baking brands, and Tourism Northern Ireland, and I am particularly passionate about supporting Irish food, drink, and hospitality businesses. Current and recent clients include Blas na hÉireann, Bord Bia, Pizza da Piero, The Algiers Gastropub, ELY Wine Bar, and Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers. I specialise in developing PR strategies that build brand visibility and engage audiences
through earned media, digital platforms, and strategic partnerships. As part of the panel for Blas na hÉireann and Taste 4 Success Skillnet Ireland’s award-winning mentoring initiative, I have mentored over 40 Irish food and drink businesses, supporting them to develop clear, effective PR and communications plans aligned with their commercial goals.
Come see Vivienne chatting about ‘Key Factors in Ensuring Your Brand Story’s Success’ on The Future of Hospitality stage on Wednesday, 11th February at 12.30pm