Pictured: Catherine Doyle, Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland
This week’s 60 seconds with features Catherine Doyle, Managing Director of Dell Technologies Ireland.
What was your first job?
My first technology sector job was in a small software distribution company. At that time software was delivered in a box with a CD and a manual. I learned a huge amount about the technology industry and business in general. It was a great start to building my career in IT.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I have always enjoyed technology and was always curious about the advancements in the industry. I started working with EMC in 2000 and found the business fascinating, I really enjoyed the constantly changing landscape, and when we became Dell Technologies that experience just got better. I have also been lucky to work closely with many different customers in various industries and experience their challenges and successes. Dell Technologies has a broad capability, and this enables us to deliver immense value to our customers and partners. I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact of technology on Irish businesses and the innovation it is unlocking in sectors ranging from healthcare and education to manufacturing and finance.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have been appointed Managing Director of Dell Technologies Ireland in May and take on the responsibility for the commercial and enterprise business on this island, covering both public and private sector organisations. Not only are we dealing with the evolving economic environment in Ireland, but we also have the opportunity to help businesses embrace emerging technologies like 5G and Generative AI as well as data at the Edge. The future belongs to those who harness new technologies.
Career-wise, would you do anything differently?
I would not do anything differently. Every step that I have taken on my career journey has influenced where I am now, and I wouldn’t want to change that. A piece of advice that I might have shared with my younger self and which I share with those starting on their careers would be to seize every opportunity that emerges and don’t be afraid to believe in your ability.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
Success is about dreaming big, finding your passion and continually embracing change.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
I think it is critical to take time to invest in yourself. We need to be constantly evolving emotionally, academically and professionally. The business landscape is ever-changing and new ideas and concepts are always popping up. It’s also stimulating to constantly challenge yourself to learn.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
Motivation is such a personal thing, and it varies so much from one person to another. I find myself incredibly motivated by the fast-paced nature of our sector and the game-changing potential of new technologies like Generative AI. They can help businesses and organizations gain a competitive edge.
I also really enjoy working with people. I’m a big believer in creating an inclusive work environment that’s all about positivity and teamwork. When everyone is on the same page with clear goals and a shared vision, amazing things can happen. I think it’s vital to make sure that everyone has the chance to define their path to success in a way that suits them and never losing sight of personal growth and development is crucial, too.
How do you handle adversity?
The key to handling adversity is to remain calm and keep a clear head. It can be so easy to be led by emotion and this is never a good thing. I think staying calm in the face of adversity is a learned behaviour, and it’s worth practicing until you get it right.
How do you relax?
I enjoy walking in the hills, reading books, and traveling. I have two kids and a dog, and I spend a lot of time taking them to their various activities. This is also a wonderful way for me to relax and spend time with them.
What are your aspirations for the future of business?
I’m looking forward to working with our talented team to support our customers and partners with market-leading solutions to accelerate the pace of digital transformation and unlock breakthrough innovation. That will be the focus of the upcoming Dell Technologies Forum in Dublin on September 26th.
With our global and regional experts in our campuses in Cork, Limerick, and Dublin, I believe Dell Technologies is uniquely positioned to deliver real impact for organisations. Our €2m investment in our Open Telecom Ecosystem Lab in Cork can help unlock the business potential of 5G and accelerate the development of smart manufacturing and digital cities. The expansion of our Customer Solutions Centre Innovation Lab in Limerick provides an important testbed for customers to develop new ways to capture, analyse, and make decisions at the Edge.