Communications and PR network IPREX is holding its EMEA conference in the Metropole Hotel in Cork to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

The group has more than 1,100 communication professionals from more than 100 markets globally, and is worth more than $500m (€473m). Ann-Marie O'Sullivan, of AM O'Sullivan PR in Cork, serves as its global president.

In tandem with the event, the group launched its report 'The State of Global Communications and Marketing 2023,' which collated the responses of 430 business leaders from twenty eight countries

It found that 59% of global organisations are conducting their business in the EMEA region, with 37% of that business taking place in Ireland and the UK.

The report also revealed that 20% of those in the communications and PR world feel they don't have enough staff to keep up with the workload.

Conference attendees will hear from speakers on topics including content creation for video and podcast, influencer marketing, sustainability, looking to the future and the impact of AI. 30 international delegates are expected to attend.

Guest speaker Ellen Gunning, CEO of Mettacomm, said: "When people think of AI, and generative AI in particular, they think of the immediate impact on skills like content creation.

"That’s just the beginning. AI is like tossing a pebble into a pool – the ripples extend over a vast area.

"As a data prophet, I’m fascinated by the extent to which our lives will change. The positives are terrific – longer and healthier lives, but the potential negatives around lack of ethics, equality and equity need to be discussed now. 

"We need to ensure that the intelligence that we create benefits the whole of society – and that’s a global challenge."

Ann-Marie O'Sullivan, IPREX global president, said: "The IPREX EMEA Regional Conference showcases the strength of both Cork, as an ever growing communications hub, and IPREX as the leading global communications network.

"It is a massive honour to host the EMEA Regional Conference, particularly given the fact that IPREX celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. It is also a great opportunity to showcase the best of Cork to our guests, who have travelled from all around the world to attend."

Photo: Ann-Marie O’Sullivan, Global President of IPREX and host of this year’s conference with the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Kieran McCarthy. Pic: Brian Lougheed