By Business & Finance 
Pictured: Oonagh Fox, Head of Brand and Comms at The Innovation Exchange
Oonagh Fox is Head of Brand and Comms at The Innovation Exchange, an initiative of Skillnet Ireland. The Innovation Exchange connects large corporates facing innovation challenges with ambitious SMEs that fast-track solutions. The corporates get access to Ireland’s most talented solutions providers and scaling technology companies get an instant sales pipeline.
What was your first job?
My first job was a client executive at a Dublin corporate communications consultancy.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I was attracted to the high energy world of PR where there was a challenge around every corner; I love the satisfaction of coming up with the right solutions to complex issues.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
I would say achieving a sense of balance – I’m very lucky to have a fulfilling career while ensuring that family sits front and centre in my life
Career wise, would you do anything differently?
I might have moved around more in the early days and tried more new things. But who knows if that would have been the right thing; I’m happy where I am today so no reason to second guess!
In one sentence, how would you define success?
Ticking off all the actions on a to-do list, on time, and turning the page – whether it’s for a day in the life of a busy family home, or a large complex business project.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. When the small stuff is small stuff, it only needs to be as good as it needs to be. I’ve learnt to apply perspective when things don’t work out exactly as I’d like.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
For me having a strong sense of purpose to the job at hand is the greatest motivator. If you know what you’re doing will achieve something tangible, it’s motivating and fulfilling.
How do you handle adversity?
By figuring out whether it’s better to meet it head on or to work around it. Every situation is different, and I try to respond rather than react.
How do you relax?
Enjoying the outdoors – walking, tennis, swimming and watching hockey. I also love eating out.
What are your aspirations for the future of the business?
For The Innovation Exchange to be established as the nationwide marketplace for innovation – where both large businesses and scaling start-ups can accelerate growth and commercial success. I’m very excited to see lots more collaborations and deals continually developing between our members!
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