I started my career in London and I was fortunate to join a very progressive company – as they grew so did I, becoming sales and marketing director at age 29.
Returning to Ireland I worked as a marketing consultant for a number of years.
Utilising my extensive business-to-business marketing experience I entered the tourism sector, joining the Cliffs of Moher in 2016
Today I am the Operations Manager at Caherconnell Fort and Sheepdog Demonstrations in the heart of the Burren.
Q 1- How does your normal day begin?
The alarm goes off at 6.45 am, if the weather is not too awful I walk the dogs before work. After many years of travelling by tube, I now have a glorious commute through the beautiful Burren, every morning as I turn the bend to descend into the beautiful Caherconnell Valley I remind myself how lucky I am
Q 2- What are your biggest daily challenges?
The biggest challenge is probably one faced by everyone working in the tourism sector, so much to do and limited time in which to do it. Being decisive so things get done quickly is crucial. It’s a fast-moving environment and I love it
Q3- What do you love most about your job?
Working in the beautiful Burren, delivering an authentic product with deep-seated roots, inspirational and motivated colleagues, working with sheepdogs, a very supportive and collaborative relationship with the Burren Ecotourism Network, sharing a common goal and vision with other tourist providers in the region.
Q 4- What do you do to relax?
I am not great at relaxing in the traditional sense i.e., chilling out, I walk a lot, hike with Munster Hiking and Hiking buddies Ireland, yoga, reading, meeting friends and having fun.
Q 5-Favourite staycation destination in Ireland and why?
It’s between West Cork and Donegal but as an Ulster woman I am going for Donegal – stunning beaches, wild and unspoiled landscape and the people are lovely and great craic
Q 6-Favourite holiday destination worldwide?
Probably Spain for the richness of the culture and the amazing architecture
Q 7-Favourite Business motto?
It’s a Beckett quote – we must keep striving to be our best selves – “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better”
Q 8. Advice for young business entrepreneurs
The most important factor in my career development was a lovely manager who saw the potential I didn’t know I had and encouraged and nurtured me – it is so important to give a helping hand to people starting out by guiding and building confidence.
