Tell us a little bit about yourself and your current role.

My name is Laura O'Mahony and I'm from Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. I'm currently running my own marketing company while studying on a Master's programme in Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship at UCD. I also host a podcast called The Marketing Guide. I am married to Paddy and have two boys: Joe and Dan. I have two dogs: a Pug called Waffle and a Labrador called Sonny.  

What path led you to where you are today?

Growing up, my dad worked for the local newspaper (The Nationalist) and I got to experience all aspects of how a paper is put together from a young age, and that's where my love of advertising and marketing really started. After school I went to Cork to study Advertising and PR, and after that I went on to complete a degree in Computing (Multimedia and Communications) at TUS.

My first job out of college was as marketing manager of a large motor group, and after three years there I moved into the role of marketing manager at TUS (T.I).  I always knew that one day I wanted to work for myself and have that flexibility, and when my children came along, the time felt right to take that leap and set up my own company.

What do you love most about the work you do?

I love being creative and problem solving. There's nothing better than helping a business grow and seeing the results of that work. The satisfaction of watching others succeed never gets old. Every client brings a different challenge and that variety is what keeps me energised. I also really enjoy the flexibility that being a business owner brings to my life. I get to collect my kids from school and never miss out on a sports day or event at school and that is what matters most to me. 

When you're not working, where would we find you?

You'll find me curled up on the couch watching the latest Netflix series with the family or catching up on the latest episode of The Real Housewives. I love getting out into nature or going to the beach with my family and dogs. I really enjoy spending time with other like-minded people who understand the entrepreneurial journey. I am very active in Network Ireland and love meeting other women in business. 

Looking back, how did your time at TUS influence your career or outlook?

My time at TUS was about so much more than sitting in a classroom. We had amazing lecturers who brought real life experience into everything they taught. I got to feature on local and national radio, had plenty of opportunities for public speaking, spent a week on the set of a music video, and had a full page feature in a national newspaper, and that's just some of it. All of those experiences gave me skills and contacts that meant when I walked into my first marketing job after college, I hit the ground running.

What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates?

Say yes. When an opportunity comes along that makes you a little nervous or pushes you outside your comfort zone, take it. Some of the experiences that shaped me most during my time at TUS were the ones I might easily have shied away from. Those moments build your confidence, your skills, and your network in ways that no classroom session alone can.

What's one memory from your student days that stands out?

What stands out most is the sense of community and belonging. The lecturers were always there when you needed them and the support never felt forced, it was genuine. You'd be greeted with a friendly face at reception, in the canteen, at the library. You felt like you were part of something, and that people actually cared. That's not something you forget.

How do you stay connected to the TUS community?

Over the years I've visited TUS on many occasions, whether it's to share marketing insights with students or give a talk. I'm always grateful to be asked back. I've stayed in close contact with my lecturer Bernie Goldbach, who has a wonderful way of keeping me connected and finding new ways to involve me with the TUS community. Most recently I was asked to be a judge for the EMPOWER AI programme, which is designed to support young potential innovators & entrepreneurs.  

What does the idea of an alumni community mean to you?

To me, the alumni community is about more than just the students. It's also about the relationships with the staff who went above and beyond for us. Those connections don't end at graduation. The people who supported you, challenged you and believed in you become part of your story in a way that stays with you long after you leave. That's what makes a community real. TUS and the staff will always have a special place in my heart. 

Finally, what's next for you?

Lots! My master's programme at UCD has sparked something. Through it I identified a real gap in the market within the female founder space, and I'm currently in the process of building a new business to meet that need. On top of that, I’ve just stepped into the role of Vice President with Network Ireland's Tipperary branch this year, with the presidency to follow next year. I also have my eye on what's next in terms of education because I genuinely love learning and don't plan on stopping anytime soon. And teaching is something I hope to do more of. Sharing knowledge and experience with others is something I find really fulfilling.