E12 – Leading with Empathy: Managing People, Volunteers & Business Change with Karen Ronan

What does it really take to lead people well?

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan is joined by Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber and President of Network Ireland, to explore the human side of leadership and what it takes to bring people together around a shared purpose.

Karen shares why managing volunteers requires a different approach to managing paid employees, why empathy is one of the most underrated leadership qualities, and how giving people ownership and recognition can create a stronger sense of connection.

Louisa and Karen also explore:

• Why empathy, integrity and clear boundaries are essential to good leadership
• How managing volunteers differs from managing paid employees
• The importance of networking, confidence and peer support in leadership
• Why every skill can be learned through practice and experience
• How leaders can use AI while keeping human connection at the centre of their organisations

Listen now!

Karen Ronan – CEO, Galway Chamber & President, Network Ireland

Karen Ronan is a dynamic and highly regarded leader with a proven track record in business and sports tourism, stakeholder engagement and economic development.

As CEO of Galway Chamber and President of Network Ireland, she plays a key role in shaping business networks and supporting enterprise growth.

She has been instrumental in driving national and regional strategies, with a strong focus on ESG and sustainable work practices. Her extensive background in project management and governance has helped foster valuable connections at local, national and international levels.