By Business & Finance 
Ciara Troy is the Founder and Managing Director of Oishii Sushi. Created in 2006, the company handcrafts sushi, salads, and noodle dishes from its Dublin kitchen. Oishii provides convenient on-the-go chilled food available nationwide.
By Youssef Fathalli
What was your first job?
My very first job was when I was 15 years old. I spent the summer bag packing in the local Tesco. £2.50 an hour & I knew I loved retail even then!
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I have a genuine lifelong interest in food & creating recipes using different ingredients. The push to pursue Japanese-inspired products came from an inspiring semester spent in Japan during my college days.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
My greatest achievement has been taking a fledgling idea from concept stage to becoming a fully formed business entity employing 75+ staff, establishing a trusted brand presence across the island of Ireland. Happily, in that time Oishii has been recognised for many awards too including Small Food & Drink Business of the Year in the SFA 2024 Awards, and multiple product awards at both Blas na hEireann and the Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards.
Career-wise, would you do anything differently?
I could say I’d do a hundred things differently, but then I may not be where I am today. We are a sum of all parts; shaped by the experiences, challenges & failings along the journey.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
The definition of success is very individual; what makes you feel good about yourself & what has been achieved. It requires continuous learning & improvements & is best when shared.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Be kind to yourself, but never give up. Keep going.
How do you motivate yourself and your team?
Energy is contagious, so I aim to bring positive can-do energy to the team. Sharing ideas, sharing food, sharing passion for creativity & possibilities. To feel unrestricted with what can be achieved is liberating & inspiring.
What is your approach to overcoming challenges?
Sometimes the challenge can be overwhelming at first; that’s ok, it can take time to process. I tend to step back, brace myself & then reassess the situation with facts, renewed clarity & confidence.
How do you relax?
Spending time with family or friends. I also love to read to switch off or go for walks by the sea.
What are your aspirations for the future of your business?
My aspiration is that we will continue to make mealtimes memorable with more fresh, innovative & delicious Oishii products; increasing brand presence across chilled, ambient & frozen retail categories in Ireland & extending to new markets overseas.
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