Annual Ardmore Forum ™
Change Makers Summit
What Makes This Summit Different
A Strategic Reset in a Turbulent World
With increasing geopolitical volatility, social fragmentation, rapid technological disruption, and declining trust, philanthropic leaders and emerging leaders rarely have the luxury of stepping outside the noise to reflect deeply. This summit will be co-designed with participants in advance to provide that space — intellectually, creatively, and personally — enabling participants to return with greater clarity, direction, and insight.
Convening Global Expertise to Challenge Our Thinking
In partnership with invited international experts, Gerry will convene sessions that draw on his experience advising institutions including the WHO, UN agencies, national governments, leading research organisations, and major foundations. Participants will be encouraged to think differently about evidence, power, narrative, behavioural drivers, long-term strategy, and the evolving role of leadership.
Purpose and Business Alignment
Every aspect of the summit is grounded in mission — not in purely commercial goals. Participants come together united by a shared commitment to social impact, human progress, and systemic improvement, forming a network built on alignment rather than competition.
What to Expect
Masterclasses and conversations on strategic communications, systems change, international development, behavioural science, and evidence-informed decision-making
A collaborative environment focused on learning, humility, and exploration, not pitch decks or transactional networking
Small, facilitated working groups where leaders explore their own real-world challenges in a private and confidential, supportive setting
Time and space for reflection, supported by the serenity of one of Ireland’s most exceptional coastal hotels
The Setting
The five-star Cliff House Hotel, dramatically overlooking Ardmore Bay, offers the ideal environment for deep thinking: expansive sea views, quiet spaces, restorative coastal walks, and exceptional cuisine. The location supports the spirit of the retreat — a chance to breathe, reset, and think more boldly about the future.
Why Participate
Potential participants have praised key features the Ardmore Forum methodology because it offers:
A 5-step, research-driven strategic process focused on impact and end-state clarity
A confidential peer group of leaders and emerging foundation talent
Access expert challenge, grounded in strategy, systems thinking, and real-world application
To move beyond funding cycles toward long-term strategic positioning
To contribute to a credible Systems Roadmap with practical relevance
Targeted input on institutional “sticky issues”
A Rare Opportunity
Limited to 12 places to preserve depth, focus, and quality of exchange, this summit offers something few leaders and emerging leaders experience: time, space, and challenge — in the company of peers who share a commitment to building a better world.