Business

High Flyers: For Clare, your network is your worth

 Clare Gallagher.
 Clare Gallagher.  Clare Gallagher.

In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Clare Gallagher, head of membership at Women in Business.

What was your first job?

My very first job was in my local newsagents, after school and at weekends - I was paid an impressive £1.50 an hour.

What qualifications do you have?

I have a BSc. honours degree in sport, exercise and leisure studies from Ulster University. I also have a diploma from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

What do you attribute your success to?

I always say your network is your worth and I have an extensive network that I pride myself on being able to reach out to.

How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?

I would describe myself as loyal and genuine and treat people equally. I also have a funny side that my close friends know only too well.

Who do you look up to in business?

There are so many successful businesspeople out there who show great leadership. Women in Business recently hosted a Women in Leadership virtual conference and I had the pleasure of hearing from Elaine Birchall, chief executive of SHS Group. A really inspiring lady.

How do you get the best out of people who work for you?

From my old sporting days, I always say that teamwork is key - success happens when everyone is working together to achieve an ultimate goal.

If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?

I think a more diverse business community is essential if we are to grow and prosper and extensive research reveals that more diverse businesses are more profitable and successful. Covid-19 had also brought flexible working to the fore, which is undoubtedly a good thing for women.

What website or app could you not do without?

I would definitely say WhatsApp. I have many friends who live abroad and it is a great way to keep in touch.

What was the last book you read?

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne - it inspired me to refocus and prioritise positive thoughts. Negativity only breeds more negativity, so I am keeping the glass half full!

What car do you drive?

I drive a Peugeot SUV. I need plenty of room for sports equipment in the back!

Tell us something interesting about yourself?

I lived in Daytona Beach in Florida for two years and worked for an event marking company promoting products to spring breakers, bikers and Nascar fans. I absolutely loved it although with my pale skin the sun did not love me back.

What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?

I am a huge Liverpool supporter and have followed the reds since I was young. My son is also a supporter and we have visited Anfield a few times now. I love nothing more than to watch my favourite team.