Network Ireland Tipperary branch – Businesswomen of the Year Awards 2019
Margaret Valette O’Connor’s numerous achievements were honoured at the Women in Business Awards 2019 as the Regional Finalist for the Established Business Category for her exemplary contribution to the growth of nationwide bakery chain, Quigley’s. The annual awards showcase the outstanding level of talent and innovation in the county, with the winner proudly representing Tipperary in the national competition.
Network Ireland, a non-profit, voluntary organisation, “is a progressive, dynamic organisation supporting the professional and personal development of women.” Start-up members credit the network for providing support as they go through the ups and downs of setting up a business while members returning to the workplace benefit from developing their skills through collaboration in a supportive environment and established entrepreneurs find value in building and growing their network of like-minded individuals.
Growing Quigley’s from a small family-run business in the town of Nenagh to a nationwide café, bakery and deli chain, Margaret and her then-husband were a powerhouse in the industry. Since taking over, Margaret is credited for the monumental advances that the brand has reached. Her bold yet strategic decisions have helped the brand adapt to the changing trends and the equally evolving customer palette.
Margaret is joined by likewise inspirational women at the event including Kylie Magner, Owner of Magners Farm, Finalist in the New Emerging Business Category; Laura Bourke, Aspire Recruitment Ltd., Finalist in the New Emerging Business Category; Susan Ryan, Susan Ryan Travel Counsellor (Nenagh), Finalist in the New Emerging Business Category; Marian Kennedy, Owner of Post-Partum Relief Healthcare, Finalist in the STEM Category; Patti O’Neill, O’Neill Architecture (Nenagh), Finalist in the STEM Category and finalist in the Small SME Business Owner Category; Orlaith Ryan, Shorla Pharma (Clonmel), Finalist in the STEM Category and New Emerging Business Category; Carmel O’Dwyer, MBA Commercial Director BPS Crowthorne (Roscrea), Finalist in the Small SME Business Owner Category; Donna Cummins, Zipyard (Nenagh), Finalist in the Small SME Business Owner Category; Mary Quinlan, Mary Quinlan Hair (Moyne), Finalist in the Small SME Business Owner Category; Dr. Marie Oppeboen, CARMHA (Nenagh), Regional Finalist in the Social Enterprise Category; and Janine Kennedy, Siucra Shack (Thurles), Regional Finalist in the Arts Category.
According to the Nenagh Guardian, “The Businesswoman of the Year Awards take place annually. All women in business – any type of business – are encouraged to join their local Network Ireland branch and get involved.”