AI's Transformative Power Is Hot Topic at Dublin Connect Event

Over 300 marketing and advertising professionals gathered, at Google HQ in Dublin, today, to discuss the transformational potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the advertising industry. 

The ‘AI Connect’ event was a collaboration hosted by Google, Enterprise Ireland and Institute of Advertising Practitioners in Ireland (IAPI) and highlighted how AI is revolutionising the marketing and advertising sector in Ireland and around the world. 

The event marks the first step on the Digital Creative Industries Roadmap 2024-2026, and the beginning of programmes with the Commercial Creative Services Sector.

In his keynote address, David Sneddon, vice president of Google EMEA outlined the significant impact that the latest AI advancements were having on the marketing and advertising sector, and the opportunities this presented.  

Attendees also heard from a panel of industry experts on AI’s potential impact on business and clients. Panellists included Nathan Reilly, CEO, Tiny Ark; Mary Doherty, managing director, Red Dog and president, IDI; Richard Carr, managing director, Accenture Song - Ireland Lead; Conor O’Donovan, head of global marketing communications and commercial creative sector, Enterprise Ireland; Jane McDaid, founder and head of creative innovation, THINKHOUSE and Pat Stephenson, founder, Boys+Girls.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney TD said, “The Irish creative industries are a vital engine of our economy, generating over €1.2 billion annually. To unleash their full potential and propel them onto the international stage, we recently launched the Digital Creative Industries Roadmap. The Roadmap fosters crucial collaboration between government, industry, and stakeholders. By working together, we can ensure Ireland's creative industries thrive in the AI age, driving sustainable growth and shared prosperity."

David Sneddon, vice president of Google EMEA, shared his enthusiasm, "We are thrilled to see the Irish marketing and advertising community embracing Google AI with such enthusiasm. AI Connect provided a valuable platform for sharing insights, showcasing innovative solutions, and driving the industry forward. We look forward to collaborating with partners like Enterprise Ireland and IAPI to empower businesses with the tools they need to succeed in the digital age."

IAPI CEO Charley Storey remarked, "The overwhelming response to AI Connect has exceeded all expectations! The industry's enthusiasm for embracing the opportunities presented by AI has been evident over the past few years, so it comes as no surprise to me as it simply reflects the agile and flexible mindset our members have always demonstrated. I am extremely grateful to Google for co-hosting this event and I look forward to leveraging the new Digital Creative Services Roadmap with Enterprise Ireland as it is so crucial to supporting IAPI members' growth and success."

Speaking at the event, Abi Moran, CEO, Folk VML and president of IAPI said, “Our industry is inherently curious. Critical to our success is being one step ahead of how people behave and what they expect. 69% of industry colleagues are using AI at least once a week. I have no doubt that this shift will only be accelerated by what we all experienced at AI Connect.”.

Conor O’Donovan, head of marketing and commercial creative services sector at Enterprise Ireland, added, "This event marks the start of our ongoing commitment under the Digital Creative Industries Roadmap to support the marketing, design, events and advertising sector, which makes a very significant contribution to the Irish economy in terms of high-quality employment and exports. Following engagement with the industry, we now have a shared plan to support the internationalisation of Irish creative services companies as well as supporting them on building on capabilities in sustainability and technology including AI adoption – which is what today’s event and partnership with IAPI and Google is all about.”

With the resounding success of AI Connect, the Irish marketing and advertising industry has taken a significant leap towards harnessing the power of AI, paving the way for a future driven by innovation, collaboration, and shared success.