Crossan takes Businesswoman of the Year 2019 accolade
A woman that founded a company that helps people find the perfect wedding venue was the big winner at the Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards recently.
Ciara Crossan, founder of WeddingDates won the overall Cork Businesswoman of the Year 2019 Award.
Ciara was also winner of the Large Business category and was recognised for her significant achievements in business over the past two years, her adaption to new technologies and her excellent management of her team.
The annual Network Ireland Cork Branch gala took place in the Maryborough Hotel & Spa on Friday 24 May. The MC was Cliona O’Connor of the Lean Mean Momma Blog.
Speaking about the winners, Network Cork President, Gillian Hennessy said: “Seeing the diversity amongst this year’s winners and their significant contributions to their industries demonstrates how Cork is leading the way in business innovation.
“The Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards recognise women who are driving change in the Cork Business landscape. We’re delighted to showcase some of Cork’s leading business persons and we would like to thank our sponsors and judges for their continued commitment and support.”
Marguerite O’Sullivan, Innovation Engineer Manager at DePuy Synthes Johnson & Johnson was awarded Best Professional in the STEM category for her pioneering innovation in her field and outstanding contribution to furthering careers for women in STEM.
Loretta Kennedy, CEO of MamaBear Foods was awarded Best in the Emerging Business category for her unique approach to business strategy and her entrepreneurial spirit.
Valerie Finnegan Cahill, Founder of Ikon Hair Design was commended in the Best Small Business category for her dynamic service offering, her passion and drive and her dedication to customer care.
The Rising Star Award which recognises women who have made important advancements in their chosen career path went to Helen Walshe, Recruitment Consultant at Employmum, while the Shining Star award, which acknowledges team members who have made outstanding contributions to their company was awarded to Marion Courtney, Business Manager at Himalaya Yoga Valley Centre.
The awards were sponsored by Brown Thomas Cork.
The event was also supported by LEO, Network Cork’s regional sponsor and AIB, the organisation’s official partner. The winners in each category will now go forward to represent Cork in the Network Ireland National Business Awards, which will take place at a gala ceremony later this year, on Friday 27 September in Cork.
Network Cork is affiliated to Network Ireland, a not-for-profit national organisation for women in business, the professions, and the arts.
For more information on the awards or to become a member, visit www.networkireland.ie.