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About AWTE
AWTE Ireland
AWTE is a not-for-profit organisation run voluntarily by a board of women with a wealth of experience in the travel sector
Ciara Foley
Chairperson
Ciara Foley is the joint owner and managing director of Platinum Travel, a leading company in the Irish Travel Industry with over 18 years in business. Ciara joined the AWTE as she found herself involved in conversations with colleagues in the industry who spoke highly of the work and events achieved by the organisation. Ciara has been surrounded by the amazing women of AWTE for the past few years, gaining immense value from the group. It has been instrumental in her personal and professional growth, continuously inspiring her through encounters with a range of diverse individuals at different events. AWTE has broadened her perspectives, revealing numerous opportunities in her life and career.
Katrina McMullan, a Travel Counsellor with 25 years of industry expertise, joined AWTE during its inaugural event in Dublin. Recognizing AWTE’s commitment to empowering women across all sectors of the travel industry, Katrina was drawn to the association’s supportive environment. Motivated by the opportunity for professional development and networking, Katrina eagerly became a member. She seeks to enhance her skills and expand her professional network through AWTE’s engaging events, benefiting from insightful speakers and fostering valuable connections.
Katrina McMullan
Vice Chair, Social Media and Communications Executive
Allie Sheehan
Membership and Sponsorship Executive
Allie Sheehan serves as the Special Projects and Social Media Manager at Ireland’s Travel Trade Network, bringing 8 years of industry experience to her role, with 2 years dedicated to her current position. Joining the AWTE provided Allie with a valuable platform to connect with fellow women in the travel sector and glean insights from their diverse experiences. Through AWTE, she has expanded her network and honed her skills through various events and committee involvement. As Allie continues to navigate her career, she remains committed to embracing the dynamic nature of the travel industry and leveraging her experiences to make meaningful contributions to the sector.
Annette, Account Executive with Business Exhibitions Ltd., has been a member of the Irish Travel Trade since 1993. Most of her career to date was as a travel agent before becoming a franchise business owner with Travel Counsellors in 2016. In 2022 she moved to the representation side of the trade before joining the team at Business Exhibitions Ltd. arranging some of the biggest shows of the Irish travel trade calendar. As our Events Co-ordinator, she is responsible for planning all in-person events of AWTE Ireland. She values the new networking opportunities and support she has received from fellow AWTE members and industry colleagues since signing up to the committee in early 2023.
Annette McCann
Events Co-ordinator
Josie Carrigy, the retail manager at Arrow Tours, boasts more than 25 years of experience in the Irish Travel Industry. Amid the pandemic, Josie proactively enrolled in college to pursue studies in digital marketing and social media. Leveraging this knowledge, she has effectively supported various events and platforms within the industry. Her decision to join the AWTE in early last year underscores her commitment to expanding her professional network and acquiring new skills.
Josie Carrigy
Social Media and Communications Executive
Jan Lyons
Secretary
Jan Lyons embarked on her career in the travel industry in 1980, gaining experience across various sectors including airlines, travel agencies, and tour operations. Joining AWTE at its inception, she was drawn to its focus on professional development and community support. AWTE proved invaluable during the challenges of COVID-19, offering essential programs to navigate the difficult times in the travel sector.
Carrie started her career in the travel industry in 2014 and has worked in various roles such as Travel Consultant in Canada & Ireland, Business Development Manager and later Industry Sales Manager EMEA at an international tour company and is now working with travel trade publication, ITTN.ie, as a business development and trade engagement manager. She is also a trustee for the ITAA Benevolent Fund since 2021 and is a proud member of the AWTE Ireland. Conversations around sustainable travel are welcomed and encouraged!
Carrie Day
Treasurer
Donna Kenny
Membership and Sponsorship Executive
Donna Kenny, Senior Product Manager for Tour America and The Travel Suite, initiated her career in 2000 with Ryanair. Joining AWTE upon colleagues’ enthusiastic recommendations, Donna seeks to engage with the association to network and glean insights from the plethora of talented women in the industry.
Susan Maxwell’s career spans over 35 years in the Travel Industry including roles at Melia Travel, American Express Travel and Maxwell Travel. Transitioning onto entrepreneurship opening a Travel Recruitment company, Maxwell Recruitment which she ran for over 10 years. With a career portfolio whilst still working freelance contracts in the Travel Industry she now runs an online store specialising in corporate gifting with Travel Themed Location Inspired home fragrance products.
Susan is a founding member of AWTE Ireland and has found the association’s developmental sessions and networking opportunities invaluable, emphasising its supportive role within the travel sector.
Susan Maxwell
Events Co-Ordinator
Valerie Murphy
Membership and Sponsorship Executive
Valerie