Q: What did you want to be when you were small? A: I wanted to be an actress. I grew up involved in theatre groups and loved singing and acting (dancing, not so much!). I even studied Theatre and Performance for my undergrad.
Along the way, I realized I actually enjoyed working behind the scenes just as much. I liked organizing, managing, and making things happen, which led me to study Management and Marketing for my master’s.
Since then, I’ve worked across theatre, the drinks industry, and now professional services. It’s been a fun ride. I still love going to the theatre, and I try to bring that creativity into my work as a Marketing Manager.
Q: What’s your favorite family tradition? A: A few years ago, we started a Christmas Eve raclette dinner tradition, and it’s become one of my favorite parts of the holidays. My sister spent some time living in France and Belgium, and while she was there, she picked up a raclette grill for hosting dinner parties.
Now, every Christmas Eve, we gather around the table and cook up a feast of melted cheese, meats, and vegetables. After dinner, we head to mass at our local church, followed by a drink at the pub to round off the night. (And yes, if the mention of a “pub” didn’t give it away, I’m Irish!)
Q: Who was a leader you admired growing up, and what’s one thing you learned from them? A: It might be an obvious answer, but I really admired my parents. They built a family business together, which is something they should be incredibly proud of. They taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and commitment.
What stuck with me most was how they supported us. They never pressured us to follow a specific path. They simply wanted us to be happy, healthy, and kind, and gave us the freedom to figure out who we wanted to be.
Q: What is the best gift you have been given? A: When I moved to America, my sister gave me a pair of Claddagh earrings. The Claddagh is a traditional Irish symbol that originates from Galway, which also happens to be my home county. They are a little piece of home that I carry with me everyday.
Q: If you had a warning label, what would yours say? A: “Warning: has made being Irish her whole personality!”
Q: What’s a skill or habit you’ve picked up recently that you’re proud of? A: Last year, I went back to playing camogie, an Irish national sport and officially the fastest field sport in the world. I hadn’t played in over 10 years, so getting back into it felt like a big leap.
I’m still not entirely sure what I’m doing or why, but it’s been fun. I’ve made great friends, travelled to San Francisco, and next month I’ll be heading to Philly for the USGAA All-Americans. It’s a great way to stay fit and challenge myself all over again.
Q: What’s one piece of leadership advice you would give to your younger self? A: You don’t need to have all the answers to be a good leader. Listening well, asking thoughtful questions, and creating space for others to contribute will take you further than trying to do it all yourself. Trust that your voice matters but make room for others, too.
Q: What’s your secret talent or something you’re good at that people might not know? A: Most people probably didn’t know how much I love performing until they read this interview! It’s something that’s always been a big part of me, and this has been a great reminder that I need to get back on out there. Watch this space!
Q: What’s a small win you’re celebrating this week? A: I go on vacation this week so clearing my to-do list and signing off will be a big win. See you all when I get back.