Women Now Leading the Charge in Ireland’s Growing Tourism Sector, Get the Details Here

Published on December 19, 2025

The Ireland tourism industry is more than just a picturesque landscape and a rich history; it also involves people with a deep passion for their work that influences this sector. Whether it is marketing managers, head chefs, or event planners, professionals are behind the development of this sector. In this week’s segment, we get a glimpse of this ever-changing sector through expert opinions from three energetic people who find their work satisfaction in this diverse field of Irish tourism.

A Dynamic Career in Tourism: Ellen Thompson’s Role at Carton House

Ellen Thompson, Golf Events Executive and Executive Assistant to the General Manager at Carton House, a Fairmont-managed hotel, embodies the dynamic nature of the Irish tourism sector. Ellen’s responsibilities include organizing a range of golf-related events—from corporate outings to member tournaments—at one of Ireland’s premier luxury hotels.

Ellen’s passion for the tourism industry is in her blood, as she hails from a family of hoteliers. She started early, working part-time during her school and college years at Choice Hotels. This sparked her interest in hospitality, and Ellen soon went on to complete the Dalata Graduate Programme, where she gained invaluable experience in hotel operations and leadership. Over the years, she climbed the ranks from guest relations to front-of-house management, and now, as Golf Events Executive, she enjoys the challenges and variety that come with planning and delivering golf events.

“Tourism is a dynamic industry, and every day is different,” says Ellen. “No two events are the same, and golf, in particular, requires constant adjustments to logistics, weather, and multiple bookings. It keeps me on my toes, but that’s what makes it exciting.” Ellen emphasizes the importance of adaptability and strong organizational skills in ensuring events run smoothly, especially in a luxury environment where high standards are expected.

Her career in tourism has shown her that opportunities for growth are abundant for those who are eager to learn and take initiative. “Long-term, I’d love to combine guest experience, strategic planning, and team development in a senior role,” she adds, demonstrating how diverse and evolving careers in Irish tourism can be.

Conor Halpenny: Passion and Innovation in the Kitchen

Conor Halpenny, Head Chef and Co-owner of Square Restaurant in Dundalk, offers another inspiring example of how Ireland’s tourism industry is shaped by passionate professionals. Conor’s journey into the culinary world began at age 15 when he started working in kitchens. His love for food grew, and by 2017, he won the Euro-Toques Ireland competition for Young Chef of the Year.

Conor describes his work as more than a job; it’s a vocation. “The best part of my job is seeing a dish I’ve prepared really appreciated by guests,” he says. “There’s nothing like the feeling of empty plates coming back.” Today, he’s not just a chef but an advocate for the thriving food culture in Ireland. The country’s culinary scene has never been better, with fresh, high-quality ingredients grown locally. Conor’s work often takes him to small producers, forging relationships that benefit both his restaurant and the broader Irish food industry.

As a chef in today’s world, Conor also embraces being more “front of house”—engaging with customers and sharing his passion for food directly with them. He believes the new generation of chefs needs to interact with guests, explaining their food creations and sharing stories. “It’s not just about cooking behind a door anymore. It’s about engaging with your guests and showing them the care you put into the food,” he says.

For those interested in a culinary career in tourism, Conor’s advice is simple: “Go for it. You can go anywhere in the world with it, and always find a job. That’s the beauty of where the tourism sector is now.” His story highlights the immense potential for chefs and food entrepreneurs in Ireland’s tourism industry.

Katy Thornton: Marketing Executive at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum

Katy Thornton, Marketing Executive at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, shares her story of how her career in journalism led her to a fulfilling role in Ireland’s tourism sector. At EPIC, Katy coordinates visits from journalists, helps create new marketing projects, and works to improve visitor experiences. The museum, which celebrates the history of Irish emigration, offers visitors a chance to connect with the global journey of over 10 million Irish emigrants.

“I love that my job is so varied and gives me a real sense of place,” Katy says, referring to the museum’s location on the North Wall, a significant historical area tied to Irish migration. “There’s never a typical day—TV crews come to film, school tours happen, and we work with international visitors who want to discover their roots. It’s a busy, rewarding environment.”

Katy’s role revolves around creativity. She sees marketing as an opportunity to inject magic into visitors’ experiences and create campaigns that will spark interest and curiosity. “Marketing is inherently creative, and that’s what I love about it,” she explains. She recognizes the power of positive stories, especially when contrasted with the negativity often found in the news. Her goal is to inspire others to view Ireland and its rich history from a fresh perspective.

The Impact of Women in Irish Tourism

The stories of Ellen, Conor, and Katy highlight the diversity of careers within Ireland’s tourism sector. From event management and culinary arts to museum marketing, the tourism industry in Ireland offers vast opportunities for individuals with varied skills and interests. These professionals, particularly women, play a pivotal role in shaping the sector, driving innovation, and supporting Ireland’s position as a top destination for global travelers.

The Irish tourism sector is thriving, and the efforts of dedicated professionals like Ellen, Conor, and Katy contribute to its ongoing success. Their work is not just about providing a service but about creating experiences that leave lasting memories for visitors. As Ireland continues to evolve as a leading tourism destination, the industry will continue to offer exciting opportunities for those who are passionate about hospitality, culture, and adventure.

Ireland’s Tourism Industry—A Thriving Sector for Passionate Professionals

One industry that is quite vibrant in the Republic of Ireland and provides excellent opportunities for a rewarding career for those who are eager to follow their dreams is tourism. Whether it is events management, creating world-class restaurant experiences, or celebrating the historical aspect of emigration, tourism as a sector has a lot to offer. The stories that have been highlighted above through the examples of Ellen, Conor, and Katy is that the tourism industry in Ireland encourages creativity, innovation, and development, which is perfect for someone who is looking for a rewarding career as well as a fulfilling life.