Cork Businesswoman of the Year announced

THE founder of WeddingDates, Ciara Crossan, was crowned Businesswoman of the Year at the Network Cork annual awards tonight.

Ms Crossan, who founded the company that helps brides and grooms to find their wedding venue and plan the big day, was awarded overall Cork Businesswoman of the Year 2019 Award.

She was also winner of the Large Business category and was recognised for her significant achievements in business over the past 2 years, her adaption to new technologies and her excellent management of her team. 

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. 

Speaking on the announcement of 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.”