Meet the Irish woman embracing change and diversity in tech

With a career that began unexpectedly in information technology, Ashling Cunningham’s career is marked by her ability to embrace change and foster a supportive environment to lead to exceptional growth and innovation, alongside her commitment to learning and leadership, particularly in promoting diversity and mentorship in the workplace.

When Ashling first received an offer to work in information technology at Hertz Services, she was hesitant. “I had trained as an accountant and was interviewing for a finance position,” she recalls. “They recognised my systems implementation experience and thought I would be a good fit for IT.” After a brief internal battle, she accepted the position. “I went in, and I’ve never looked back,” she laughs.

Her background in finance equipped her with a unique perspective while navigating the tech industry, particularly as she adapted to various roles within organisations such as Ervia, Irish Water and Irish Life Group, where she focuses on digital transformation. “There are so many different areas to explore in tech, from security to programming to app development. It’s thrilling because no two days are ever the same.”

It was last year when Ashling transitioned to the role of Chief Information Officer at Irish Life Group, where she has made significant contributions to shaping the technology agenda. As CIO, one of her primary responsibilities is to develop and implement a cohesive technology vision and strategy for the company. This involves aligning technological initiatives with business priorities to enhance operational efficiency and improve customer experiences.

Under her leadership, Irish Life has embraced emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics and cloud computing to improve service delivery. For Ashling, it is important that a robust digital infrastructure that not only supports current business operations but also anticipates future market needs. “My role is really to ensure that we harness technology as a catalyst for innovation and to drive strategic success,” she says.

You can have it all, just not all at once. Planning is crucial.

As a female leader, Ashling is a strong advocate for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. “You can have it all, just not all at once. Planning is crucial,” she advises. “You need to decide when you are stepping in and when you are stepping out to support your own environment and family needs.”

She notes, “This is the first time organisations can have five generations in the workplace, so everybody’s needs are different. As leaders, we need to support that, build and maintain diversity in our teams, and attract and retain the best talent.”

Ashling looks back at the shift toward hybrid working models, especially following the pandemic. “Organisations had to adapt quickly, and those who had invested in technology were able to facilitate remote work seamlessly. Productivity didn’t take a hit,” she recounts.

The ability to be flexible is particularly important for parents balancing work and family responsibilities. “For any working parents, work-life balance is essential. Flexible working allows for caring for family members, whether children or elderly parents,” she says.

Pictured, left, Siobhan Noble, Ashling Cunningham and Adebola Olomo as part of the IMAGE x PwC Women in Tech series.

She speaks passionately about the importance of inclusivity within organisations. “Diversity should not just be an HR checkbox but a core value embedded in the organisation’s culture,” she asserts. “It’s about listening, understanding and creating an environment where everyone feels they have a voice.”

She recalls how, throughout her career, she faced impostor syndrome and the challenge of stepping into roles traditionally held by those with technical backgrounds. “I struggled initially because I felt I didn’t have the same qualifications,” she says. “However, my unique background allowed me to communicate business requirements effectively and marry them with the necessary technology.”

Ashling believes that adaptability will be essential for the next generation of leaders. “The future will require leaders who can pivot and adjust to new challenges. It’s about being open to learning and exploring different aspects of business,” she says.