MEMBERS OF the Irish Management Institute (IMI) have voted unanimously in favour of a merger with University College Cork.

Both organisations believe a merger could enhance the services they offer as well as expanding the institute’s international reach.

At a meeting in IMI’s headquarters in Sandyford, Dublin, the members voted to enable a move that would see the merger go ahead, subject to approvals under education legislation.

UCC’s governing body adopted a proposal to merge with the IMI in February. IMI chief executive Dr Tom McCarthy said a merger would allow it further its core mission of improving the practice of management in Ireland.

“We have been engaged in a process of transformation and rejuvenation to enhance our service to client organisations,” he said. “The next stage in IMI’s development requires an expansion of its capability in a number of areas to maintain progress and to consolidate and build on its achievements.”

Under the terms of the proposed merger, the IMI will retain its separate identity and continue to operate as a membership organisation. “UCC will provide research capability and international reach, while the IMI’s distinctive identity will be maintained,” Dr McCarthy said. The IMI is based in Sandyford and has been providing education for executives for over 50 years.