Dave A. Barry began his career in human resources with a global biopharmaceutical company, developing expertise in HR, lean six sigma, and finance. He later transitioned into the tech sector, where he honed his leadership and organisational skills in fast-paced and innovative environments. As the Founder and Chief Connection Officer at Conexion.ie, Dave collaborates with SMEs and biopharma companies to develop customised HR strategies, including AI-driven talent management solutions designed to future-proof organisations. In addition to his speaking engagements, Dave also lectures on strategic human resources and talent management at University College Cork, where he imparts his knowledge and experience to the next generation of HR and people leaders.
Dave delivers powerful talks on organisational connection, people leadership and talent management, including the role of AI in transforming Talent. His people leadership approach emphasises ensuring the right managers are in the right roles, modelling company values, and continuously developing emotional intelligence. Additionally, he advocates a ‘people first’ approach to talent management, focusing on brand-aligned hiring, managing and developing, and engaging and retaining employees to ensure long-term organisational success. His ability to combine industry expertise with engaging communication makes him a sought-after keynote speaker and MC.
His organisational speaking series focuses on connecting un-joined dots within businesses, ensuring companies never have accidental managers, and achieving a competitive edge through people-first talent management strategies. On the motivational side, Dave inspires individuals to discover their life and work purposes, create lasting legacies, and bring optimal joy into their lives. Through these two series, Dave delivers actionable insights for both business growth and personal fulfilment.
“As a recurring Cork Chamber Skillnet collaborator, with both September 2024’s ‘Talent Management in the Evolving World of AI: The Time is Now’ and May 2023’s ‘Cork Talent & Skills: What Lies Beneath?’ Cork Chamber Skillnet events, Dave designed, moderated and spoke at each. With deep expertise in – and passion for – the subject matters, plus an energetic delivery style, Dave tangibly engaged audiences throughout both in-person events. This was validated by high room energy on the days, and similar levels of social media activity that continued into subsequent weeks. Particularly in the people, leadership and talent spaces, delighted to highly recommend Dave as a speaker or MC.” – Garrett O’Rourke, Training & Development Manager, Cork Chamber Skillnet, Nov 2024
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