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Meet the Irish woman embracing change and diversity in tech
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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.
Public speaking is crucial. The more you practise, the easier it becomes.
She encourages younger professionals to embrace opportunities outside their comfort zones and be vocal about their aspirations. “Public speaking is crucial. The more you practise, the easier it becomes,” she says, highlighting that overcoming such fears can bolster professional development.
She also emphasises the importance of mentorship, especially for women entering the tech field. “Ask yourself, who in this organisation can coach or mentor me? Seek someone out. There is always someone willing to help,” she advises. “I did that when I joined Irish Life Group, and it profoundly impacted my transition.”
Her other piece of advice is to “put your hand up” and put yourself out there. “When I returned to work after taking 14 months off to have my twins, I made a choice to volunteer for opportunities. That’s likely what put me on people’s radar,” she explains. “As a leader I need people to do that. Many times, the most talented individuals are right under our noses, but caught up in the day-to-day busyness, if we’re not looking for them, we might overlook them.”
Pictured, right, Ashling Cunningham, Anne Sheehan, Siobhan Noble, Kelly McKillen, Shreya Aggarwal and Adebola Olomo as part of the IMAGE x PwC Women in Tech series.
Ashling Cunningham’s approach to leadership in the tech industry centres on continuous learning, mentorship, and fostering an inclusive culture. Her journey from accounting to becoming a CIO illustrates that success can come from non-traditional paths. By promoting work-life balance and valuing diversity, Ashling is helping to shape the future of technology while ensuring that all voices are heard.
In a field where change is the only constant, Ashling concludes with the need for authenticity in order to lead sustainably. “Be authentic in your leadership qualities, be true to yourself and remember that collaboration and trust are foundational to success.”
This article originally appeared in the IMAGE Autumn 2024 issue.
The “Women in Tech” series, sponsored by PwC, spotlights seven inspiring leaders who have carved out remarkable and diverse careers, while contributing to the advancement of Ireland’s technology scene and empowering other women to excel in the sector.
Credits for this photoshoot include – Photography: Barry McCall, Stylist: Sarah Rickard, Hair: Eva Kyne, Make-up: John Bowe, and Video: Dan Dunne.
Styling credits: Ashling Cunningham wears Italian crepe dress, And Tate, €850 at Emporium Kalu. Anne Sheehan wears jacquard dress, Natan, €939 at Emporium Kalu; velvet courts, Ted Baker, €135.95 at zalando.ie. Siobhan Noble wears satin pleated dress, Amsale, €1,050 at Emporium Kalu; leather courts, €65 at Marks & Spencer. Kelly McKillen wears pinstripe waistcoat, €129; and trousers, €139; both Whistles at Brown Thomas; cream boots, Dwrs, €149.99 at styledby.ie. Shreya Aggarwal wears fit and flare dress, Weekend Max Mara, €325 at Brown Thomas; suede courts, €65 at Marks & Spencer. Adebola Olomo wears blouse, Avn, €339 at Emporium Kalu; tapered trousers, €120 at Marks & Spencer.
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