A New Leader for the Republic of Ireland Chapter: Welcome Colm Gayton MBCI
Colm’s background spans senior roles in both the public and private sectors, including work in critical infrastructure, financial services, and technology. In this interview Colm shares his motivation to lead, discusses the region’s key resilience challenges, and outlines his long-term goals for the Chapter.
What motivated you to become the Republic of Ireland Chapter Leader?
I've always believed in the value of sharing knowledge and experience to help raise the standard of professional excellence across our field. The BCI plays a vital role in shaping the future of resilience, and I was keen to support that mission here in Ireland. We have a rich pool of talent and expertise in this country, and it’s important that we create opportunities to tap into that, share insights, and build on the great work already done within this Chapter. Stepping into a leadership role felt like a natural way to give something back to a profession that’s given me so much.
How will the Chapter enhance the resilience and business continuity community in your area?
The Republic of Ireland Chapter is all about bringing people together – sharing ideas, learning from each other, and helping one another grow in our work. We want this Chapter to be a real hub for connection, where members can come together to chat about what’s happening in the world of resilience, swap stories, and pick up practical tips along the way. Whether it’s a workshop, a webinar, or just a casual meet-up over a cup of tea, we’re aiming to create a space where everyone feels welcome, heard, and supported. By shining a light on the brilliant thinking and experience already in our community and building links with others, we’ll help each other stay one step ahead of the curve – and have a bit of craic while we’re at it.
In your opinion, what are the key challenges facing your region today and how might the Chapter address them?
Ireland is navigating a time of significant changes – from shifting trade dynamics and climate pressures to technological advances, AI, and the wider ripple effects of global events. It can feel like we’re all working in a fast-moving, sometimes unpredictable world – a real BANI environment. That’s why resilience needs to be more than just ticking boxes; it’s about thinking ahead, staying flexible, and connecting the dots across systems. As a Chapter, we want to create space for honest, thought-provoking conversations about these challenges – through scenario-based workshops, themed discussions, and collaboration with others in risk, security, and sustainability. It’s about helping each other make sense of the complexity and finding fresh, practical ways to respond in our own organizations and roles.
What are your long-term goals for the Chapter?
My hope for the Republic of Ireland Chapter is that it becomes a go-to place for anyone working in resilience – no matter your background or where you are in your career. I’d love to see us build a welcoming community full of energy where people feel encouraged to share their experiences, learn from one another, and have their voices heard. Over time, I’d like the Chapter to play a bigger role in the national conversation on resilience – shaping ideas, connecting across sectors, and supporting the next wave of talent coming into the field. Whether it’s influencing good practice or helping steer policy, we’ve got something important to say – and a community that can say it together. Most of all, I want people to feel proud to be part of the Chapter and feel better prepared and more inspired to face whatever comes next.
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About the author
Colm Gayton
Operational Resilience Manager
