Waterford native and manager of WIT's business incubation centre takes on the national presidency of women's business group Network Ireland
Dr Aisling O’Neill has been appointed to the position of National President at the women’s business group Network Ireland. Network Ireland is a progressive, dynamic organisation that supports the professional and personal development of women. The Waterford woman will be working with more than 1200 members across 15 regional branches during 2021, to raise the profile of women in business in Ireland and to support them as they develop their careers.
Aisling is the manager of ArcLabs Research and Innovation Centre at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT). Located in WIT’s West Campus, ArcLabs represents an ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation. Bringing together academic research, enterprise and regional stakeholders, ArcLabs is committed to developing a sustainable economy in South East Ireland through supporting world-class enterprises creating high-value, interesting jobs in the region.
As the centre manager and as a holder of a PhD in Entrepreneurship, Aisling's presidency will advance the cause of women in business; a topic very close to her heart. Aisling has chosen 'Power of Network Ireland' as the overall theme for her presidency. "I can’t overstate how inspirational this group is for members. We’re spread out across the country with our own lives and jobs or businesses, but when we get together on something Network Ireland is definitely more than the sum of its parts.", she explains. "We support each other through tough times, offer expertise and professional advice when needed and celebrate the wins, big or small. I can’t wait to get started on the projects I have planned for the year ahead", she added.
Aisling’s priorities for her term in office include showcasing the power of Network Ireland in all its forms, including the prestigious Businesswoman of the Year Awards, promoting Network's popular Mentoring for Success programme, increasing membership, and strengthening links between branches.
Aisling will officially take over from outgoing President Louisa Meehan once the Network Ireland National Executive holds its virtual AGM this Saturday, January 30th. Louisa wished her successor well: "Every day of my term in office was a privilege – I loved it. Now Aisling's entrepreneurial expertise is the perfect fit for steering Network Ireland through this time and on towards the new opportunities our members deserve".
Main Campus Cork Road, Waterford City, 
