The Institute of Directors Northern Ireland (IoD NI) has announced that Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, will receive this year’s IoD NI Chair’s Award for Excellence in Director & Board Practice in recognition of her exceptional contribution to leadership, governance and boardroom excellence.
The award will be presented at the IoD Northern Ireland Annual Dinner, taking place at the Culloden Estate & Spa on Thursday 10th September 2026, in front of leaders, directors and senior decision-makers from across Northern Ireland.
The Chair’s Award for Excellence in Director & Board Practice is one of the Institute’s highest honours, recognising an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, championed the highest standards of corporate governance and made a significant contribution to advancing excellence in directorship and board practice.
As Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, Dr Donaldson CDir leads one of Northern Ireland’s most strategically important organisations, helping to shape the region’s economic growth, trade, tourism and investment. Throughout her distinguished career, she has earned widespread respect for her strategic insight, collaborative leadership and unwavering commitment to effective governance. Her extensive board experience and dedication to developing high-performing organisations have made a lasting impact across Northern Ireland’s business and public sectors.
Commenting on the award, Dr Theresa Donaldson CDir said:
“I am truly honoured to receive the IoD Northern Ireland Chair’s Award for Excellence in Director & Board Practice. I have always believed that strong governance and effective leadership are fundamental to creating organisations that deliver long-term value for their stakeholders and the communities they serve. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many talented colleagues throughout my career, and I accept this award as recognition of the collective efforts of those who have shared that commitment to excellence. I hope it also reinforces the importance of investing in board development and the next generation of directors.”
John Hansen, Chair of IoD Northern Ireland, said:
“Dr Theresa Donaldson CDir has made an outstanding contribution to leadership and governance throughout her career and is an exceptionally worthy recipient of this year’s Chair’s Award. Through her leadership, including her current role as Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, Theresa has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of integrity, strategic vision and sound judgement. She has been a passionate advocate for strong governance and effective boards, while generously supporting and inspiring others throughout Northern Ireland’s business community. We are delighted to recognise her achievements with this prestigious award.”
Dr Theresa Donaldson will formally receive the IoD Northern Ireland Chair’s Award for Excellence in Director & Board Practice at the Annual Dinner on Thursday 10 September 2026 at the Culloden Estate & Spa where Dr Norah Patten, who is set to make history as Ireland’s first astronaut, will join as special guest speaker.
The IoD Northern Ireland Annual Dinner is open to members and non-members. Limited tickets are available on www.iod.com