Less Shades, More Action: People, Skills & Leadership
An event for hospitality leaders ready to move from sustainability ambition to real operational change.
Tuesday 28 April 2026 | 3:00–6:00 PM | The Mayson Hotel, Dublin
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About the Event
"Less Shades, More Action" is an insight-driven gathering dedicated to moving Ireland's hospitality sector beyond sustainability theory and into practical, people-led action.
We're bringing together hotel leaders, green managers, and educators to explore how real progress starts from the inside out — with skilled teams, confident decision-making, and leadership that supports long-term transformation.
You'll leave with clarity, confidence, and one concrete next step you can implement immediately. Not someday. Monday.
What to Expect
You will hear from leading voices in leadership & green skills. You will see real case studies from organisations who have done the work. You will connect with peers who are navigating the same challenges. And you will leave with something genuinely useful, not just inspired, but equipped.
Speakers
Dr. Karl Thomas: Leadership & Innovation Consultant | Creatovation
Dr. Karl Thomas is a leadership and innovation consultant specialising in creativity, critical thinking, and decision-making. Through Creatovation, he works with organisations to develop innovative leaders and stronger strategic thinking, with a focus on practical approaches to leadership in complex environments.
Dr. Susan Gill: Climate Strategy & Skills Manager | SOLAS
Dr. Susan Gill is Manager of the Climate Strategy & Skills Unit at SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority of Ireland. Her team is responsible for funding, policy development, and implementation of FET initiatives designed to help Ireland meet its carbon reduction targets under the Climate Act 2021. Susan led the development of Green Skills 2030 — Ireland's first national FET strategy for the green transition, launched by government in October 2024 — which has since been recognised as an example of best practice by both the European Commission and the OECD.
Paul McSherry: International Projects Manager | Kaldewei
Having worked on hotel, resort, and branded residences development projects in over 20 countries, Paul brings both holistic and detailed understanding of sustainability in the hospitality development chain. Now working with sanitary ware manufacturer Kaldewei, a company where sustainability is a cornerstone, he has developed a deep passion for the connectivity, accountability, and value opportunities that sustainability creates across the industry. Paul is FSG Green Manager certified.
Jason Conlon: Assistant HR & Sustainability Manager | The Mespil Hotel, Dublin
Jason Conlon leads sustainability and HR at the Mespil Hotel, Dublin — and has the results to show for it. Under his leadership, the Mespil became the first and only hotel in Ireland to achieve the Emerald Award in the Fifty Shades Greener Hospitality Green Business Certification, alongside a three-leaf LeafMark — the programme's highest operational recognition.
An FSG Sustainability Reporting Course graduate, Jason brings a rare combination of people leadership and environmental practice to his role, building a culture where sustainability is everyone's responsibility — not just his.
Barry Murphy: MC | Comedian & Broadcaster
Barry Murphy has been at the forefront of Irish comedy for over 20 years. A seven-time IFTA-nominated writer and founder of the Comedy Cellar, Après Match, and Soupy Norman, he is one of the most recognisable names in Irish entertainment.
"The Comedy Don" — The Irish Times
"One of the 10 Kings of Irish Comedy in the Last 20 Years" — Hot Press
Reserve Your Place
Places are limited. Register your interest below and we'll be in touch.
By submitting this form you are expressing interest in attending. Registration does not guarantee a place. We will be in touch to confirm your invitation.
