In the current landscape of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA), leadership was not just about managing the present—it was about anticipating the future, navigating complexity, and leading with courage, compassion, and clarity – Breda Crehan-Roche, President, Health Management Institute of Ireland said when she officially opened the HMI 2025 Conference.
Hundreds of healthcare managers from all over the country and abroad attended the Conference, “Managing and Leading in Health and Social Care in a VUCA World – Embracing Technology and Innovation,” which was held in the RDS in Dublin.
Welcoming them, the President said, “Your presence here today reflects a shared commitment to the continuous improvement of leadership and management across our health and social care system.”
The theme of this year’s conference is both timely and relevant. We are all operating in a landscape defined by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity — words that have moved from the pages of leadership textbooks into our daily lived experience. In health and social care, that reality is magnified: we work in systems that are not only complex but deeply human. Every decision we make affects people — their health, their welfare, their dignity, and their trust in the services we provide.
“Yet amid this complexity, one truth remains constant: leadership matters. How we lead — with empathy, with courage, and with openness to innovation — will shape the kind of health and social care system we pass on to the next generation.”
She said the past number of years had demonstrated the extraordinary resilience and adaptability of our workforce. From global pandemics to climate crises, from workforce shortages to digital disruption, the challenges we faced were immense. But so too were the opportunities.
Ms. Crehan Roche said that innovation and technology were transforming every facet of health and social care — from service delivery to workforce management, from digital records to data-informed decision-making.
“However, innovation is not solely about tools or technology. It is about people — the leaders and teams who adopt, adapt, and apply these advances for the benefit of those we serve. Collaboration, therefore, is essential. Leadership today requires not only technical skill but also emotional intelligence, partnership, and shared purpose. This conference provides a valuable opportunity to connect across disciplines, organisations, and sectors, to exchange knowledge and to collectively shape the future of care.
“This conference brings together a powerful mix of voices—health and social care leaders, clinicians, policy-makers, IT professionals, researchers, and frontline staff. Each of you brings a unique perspective, and it is in this diversity that we find our strength.
“Throughout the programme, we will hear from an outstanding line-up of national and international speakers who will share insights into leadership, innovation, inclusion, and digital transformation.
“We look forward to sessions on psychological safety, strategic foresight, inclusive system design, and the evolving structure of work in the Irish health and social care services. We will also engage with pressing questions on digital disruption and the role of technology in shaping the patient, service user and staff experience.
“As we begin today’s proceedings, I invite each of you to reflect on your own role as leaders and to consider how we might collectively respond to the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.
“Leading in a VUCA environment demands not only strategic acumen but also compassion, creativity, and the courage to challenge established norms. Let this conference be a catalyst for new ideas, renewed energy, and meaningful collaboration.
“Together, let’s lead with purpose, innovate with integrity, and shape a future where health and social care systems are not only resilient—but truly transformative.”
Ms. Crehan Roche said the Health Management Institute of Ireland served as the professional body representing health and social care managers across all sectors of Ireland’s health services. It was dedicated to advancing management competence and practice standards through continuous professional development. This mission was fulfilled by providing members and stakeholders with educational programmes, professional development opportunities, and networking events.
“Today’s video loop showcases the comprehensive range of year-round activities we organise. In many ways, our regional gatherings and initiatives function as an ongoing conference where innovative ideas are shared and explored. I invite you and any non-member colleagues to join us in expanding the Institute’s impact within your organisations and workplaces. “The HMI delivers a wide array of management and personal skills training programmes—including accredited options—tailored specifically for health and social care managers. .
“I also want to take a moment to reflect on a milestone for HMI. This year, we proudly celebrate 80 years of supporting leadership in health and social care. I am honoured to serve as President during this significant anniversary, and I want to acknowledge all those who came before me—past Presidents, Council Members, and HMI members—whose dedication and vision have shaped our journey.
“Last month, we hosted our Inaugural HMI Members-Only Event, a powerful and insightful gathering where members shared their lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations. From that event, seven key themes emerged—each one a reflection of what matters most to our members. These themes will directly inform our HMI Strategy 2026–2030, and we will continue this important work at our strategy workshop next month, where your voices from today’s conference will also guide our future direction.”
Ms. Crehan Roche said she wished to express her sincere thanks to the conference sponsors and exhibitors, whose partnership made this event possible.
“My thanks also to the members of the HMI Council, the Conference Organising Committee, The Learning Rooms, and all those who have worked diligently behind the scenes to ensure the success of today’s event. Their professionalism and commitment exemplify the values of the HMI — integrity, excellence, and service.”
