Over 160 of Northern Ireland’s senior manufacturing leaders gathered at the Anchor High Leadership Summit on Thursday 28 May 2026 at the Kingfisher Estate, Templepatrick, as Manufacturing NI brought together the people shaping the future of the sector.
The flagship event convened business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts for a day of insight, discussion, and forward-looking leadership. Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 Summit focused on the key themes of economic resilience, sustainable growth, workforce development, and productivity. The Summit came to a close with comments from both the Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA and Manufacturing NI Chief Executive, Stephen Kelly.
The programme explored the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, from navigating economic uncertainty and accessing finance, to building strong workplace cultures and developing the skills needed for the future. Sessions throughout the day also examined how manufacturers could improve performance and competitiveness through innovation, leadership, and smarter ways of working.
Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive, Manufacturing NI, said:
“The Anchor High Leadership Summit continues to be a vital platform for bringing together the people shaping the future of manufacturing in Northern Ireland and celebrating them.
“At a time of increasing global competition and rapid technological change, it is important that we remember that we still need people making things and that we recognise those who do so. Strong leadership and clear thinking are more essential than ever. This year’s Summit focused on the big issues facing our sector and provided practical insight to help businesses adapt, grow, and succeed.
“It was also an opportunity for leaders to step back from day-to-day pressures, share experiences, and learn from one another. By creating space for open discussion and fresh thinking, we can help ensure that manufacturing in Northern Ireland remains innovative, competitive, and well-positioned for the future.”
As the Summit concluded, celebrations continued into the evening with the prestigious Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame Awards Dinner, recognising those whose leadership, contribution, and legacy have shaped Northern Ireland’s manufacturing landscape and enriched local communities.
The 2026 Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame Inductees were:
• David Henderson, Managing Director, Tobermore Concrete Products
• Rose Mary Stalker, former Chair of Invest NI and formerly of Ford, Boeing and Rolls-Royce
• John Woods, Founder, Linwoods Health Foods
• Seamus McKeague, Managing Director, Creagh Concrete
Manufacturing Month 2026 was sponsored by some of Northern Ireland’s leading companies and organisations including the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), Barclays, KPMG, Mills Selig, InterTradeIreland, Netcompany, Reliance, Vickerstock, Carbonfit, and Go Succeed NI.
Richard Hogg, Chair, Manufacturing NI, said:
“The Hall of Fame represents the very best of Northern Ireland’s manufacturing leaders, who have not only built outstanding businesses, but who have lifted those around them, created opportunities, and contributed meaningfully to their local communities.”