Boardroom Realities: Patrick Downes joins the Carmichael Podcast
In the Boardroom, we see clear issues: unclear strategy, real risks, board-led AI, and ESG shifting from reports to real action.
Why this conversation matters
Boards rarely implode—they drift. In this candid episode with Diarmaid Ó Corrbuí on the Carmichael Podcast, our Managing Partner Patrick Downes calls things as they are and lays out practical moves for Chairs, NEDs, CEOs and Company Secretaries who want performance governance, not performative governance.
“If your agenda is 90% backward-looking, don’t be surprised when strategy quietly erodes.”
What you’ll learn (fast)
Strategy drift vs. delivery: shift focus to the future, not the past.
Risk with teeth: clearly set appetite, triggers, and actions that actually happen.
Board-owned AI & data: don’t rely on “IT” or taskforces for oversight.
ESG/CSRD beyond PDFs: connect disclosures to value and action.
Culture levers that change behaviour: Chair–CEO rhythm, planned dissent, and evaluations that improve how the board works, not just reports.
Who should listen
Board and committee Chairs
Non-Executive Directors and Trustees
CEOs, Company Secretaries & Governance leads
Leaders in state bodies, charities, higher-ed and private sector boards
About the Carmichael series
Carmichael’s podcast, hosted by Diarmaid Ó Corrbuí, spotlights practical governance conversations for mission-driven organisations. Patrick was delighted to participate in this impactful series and bring cross-sector lessons to the table.
About Patrick Downes
Patrick is our Managing Partner at Lionheart, advising boards across state, nonprofit, higher-education and private sectors on evaluation, strategy oversight, risk and culture. His style: straight talk, practical playbooks, measurable change.
Listen & share
🎧 Episode link: https://bit.ly/CarmichaelPodcast75
💬 Share this post with a Chair, NED or CoSec who wants a sharper next agenda
📩 Contact Lionheart Governance Consultants at fiona@lionheart.ie or visit www.lionheart.ie to begin the conversation.
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