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02 WMB Award Winners The O2 WMB Conference & Awards were designed to recognise the achievement of Ireland’s businesswomen. This year we were proud to once again acknowledge some of the top female talent. 02 WMBusinesswoman of the Year Award Winner
» What did winning the O2 WMBusinesswoman of the Year Award ’09 mean to you? Firstly being nominated for this award was a real privilege, it is always so important to get recognition from collegues that the work you do is valued. Then being shortlisted to the final four was very rewarding — I felt proud that my story was something that the judges felt was compelling and warranted recognition. On the day of the event when I got to see the other finalists I was under no illusions that I would win the award and when my name was called I was genuinely honoured and proud for myself, my family and for my work collegues. The award has created a great buzz around the company and amongst family » You joined Microsoft in 1986, how has your role developed? I have had an incredible career at Microsoft since 1986 when I joined as an accounts clerk in the finance department. When I joined, I had no formal qualifications but I had a great manager who mentored me to take the first step. As part of Microsoft’s focus on employee development they supported and funded me to qualify as an accounting technician where I came 10th in Ireland in my exams. I then went on to qualify as a Certified Accountant (ACCA). Working for a company like Microsoft has allowed me to change roles every 24-36mths and gain some fabulous experiences whether that was in Finance, Customer Services, Operations — The fact that we have such a diversity of businesses meant that I did not have to leave the company to find my next career opportunity. Throughout the almost two decades at Microsoft, I have developed a passion for people management, coaching and mentoring. I believe that investing in people is central to developing leadership capabilities. To this end I have undertaken a wide range of training and qualifications to support that goal, including a coaching for organisational consultants course. Read more about O2 WMB Award Winners in the Winter 2009 issue of WMB |
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