Cathriona Hallahan – A Powerful Advocate for Women
14th November 2023

Cathriona Hallahan has been presented with a special contribution award at Sandyford Business District’s inaugural Executive Luncheon.
The former Microsoft Ireland Managing Director was presented with the award by Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond TD, and was praised for her achievements in growing the tech industry in Ireland and bringing female entrepreneurs to the fore.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar led the tributes, saying in a video message that her journey from Accounts Clerk to Managing Director was “remarkable.” He thanked Cathriona Hallahan and Microsoft for the focus they placed on digital skills and upskilling, and for being “a powerful advocate for female entrepreneurs, and for inspiring women and girls to be everything they want to be.”
Sandyford Business District CEO Ger Corbett said: “It is right that at our inaugural Executive Luncheon, we honour one of Ireland’s best businesspeople. Cathriona Hallahan not only brought Microsoft to new heights in Ireland, but her vision made the whole Sandyford area a better place to live and work.”
Sandyford Business District’s first-ever Executive Luncheon was held at Leopardstown Racecourse and included a host of CEOs from multinational companies resident in the area, as well as politicians and members of the diplomatic community. Established almost 7 years ago to represent the entire business community in the Sandyford Business District, it provides support for existing businesses and those looking to relocate and invest in the area. It has achieved considerable progress since its inception and includes 118 Information and Communication companies; 99 MedTech companies; 63 Fintech companies; 8 Energytech companies; 27 Autotech companies; 17 Education and Childcare facilities; 49 Hospitality companies; and 117 Retail and Leisure companies.
Pictured: Former Microsoft Ireland Managing Director Cathriona Hallahan with Sandyford Business District CEO Ger Corbett.