First job: I studied ag science, specialising in food engineering and joined Pepsico’s graduate training programme in Cork with a “for-export” sign on my back.

Previous jobs: Staying with Pepsico for 16 years, I had the opportunity to move cross-functionally every three years, which took me from concentrate manufacturing to bottling operations, international account management and finally country manager for Ireland.

Biggest inspiration: My parents. Mum as a remarkable plate-spinner, doctor, mother of four, devoted wife, champion cook and supreme gardener. Dad as an enterprising engineer with an infectious work ethic and love of chat.

Favourite job: My current one. Promoting our Irish dairy products and practices

Favourite part of the job: Communication. I often say we’re in the people business. The best part of my day is exchanging ideas with the network of individuals working on the business – it’s the matrix effect of brainpower which always yields a better outcome.

Least favourite part of job: Keeping pace with social media and second-guessing its longer-term role.

Turning point of your career: Moving closer to the consumer. Once I completed my operations experience and took on responsibility for international customers, I shifted gears in terms of purpose.

Lowest point of your career: 3am on a factory floor in a bottling plant trying to fix a bottle washer.

Hopes for the future: To continue to enjoy my work and get out of bed feeling motivated and purposeful.

Best advise you could give someone new to the industry: Engage with people at all touch points of the sector. Usually the knowledge and insights rest with those working in the sector. Be sure to leave you desk and experience different aspects of industry in order to build your knowledge. Stay curious.

Secondary school: Loreto Abbey, Rathfarnham.

College: UCD.

Best subject in school: Nothing specific to declare – I was a solid average across the curriculum.

Car you drive?: An Audi with tow bar! Have horse will travel!