- What was your first job?
I started working in Tylers shoe shop in Belfast when I was 13 years old. I really enjoyed engaging with people of all ages and with varying personality types.
- What qualifications do you have?
After completing my GCSEs, I undertook a BTEC in business and finance. I also completed a management degree in sales and marketing in my thirties.
- What do you attribute your success to?
I owe my success to working hard, staying positive, and always doing the right thing for the customer. I’m currently a managing director at leading IT solutions provider Qualcom (www.qualcom.co.uk), and it’s a formula that has consistently worked for me. We support clients throughout RoI, NI, the rest of UK, and the Channel Islands and we always put them first. I truly believe that this approach benefits everyone. We’re committed to redefining the IT experience and to ensuring that businesses can navigate and excel in the ever-evolving digital world with confidence and ease.
- How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
Determined, driven and passionate about giving the best possible service to our clients.
- Who do you look up to in business?
A former manager of mine, named David McCullough. When I first entered the industry there was very little in terms of female representation and David gave me the encouragement that I needed to become a STEM leader.
- How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I foster trust by providing guidance and support while empowering my employees to make their own decisions and learn from their mistakes. I always maintain a supportive distance to allow them to showcase their abilities.
- If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
I believe that the public sector procurement process could be more inclusive and would like to see a broader range of businesses, including those that are medium-sized, benefit from these opportunities.
- What website or app could you not do without?
Life360! It’s invaluable for tracking my children.
- What was the last book you read?
The Prodigal Prophet by Timothy Keller
- What car do you drive?
An Audi.
- Tell us something interesting about yourself
I’ve never had a traditional job interview. My career has unfolded organically, with each role naturally leading to the next.
- What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
My faith - it keeps me grounded and gives me a purpose.