The Network Ireland National Conference and Businesswoman of the Year Awards took place last weekend at the stunning Great Southern Hotel in Killarney, drawing professional women from across the country to celebrate excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation. The Network Ireland Waterford branch members attended in force, and were absolutely bursting with pride after bringing home two national awards!

Suzanne Parker, Highly Commended winner of the Network Ireland Established Businesswoman of the Year 2025, is the owner of Parker Law Solicitors in Waterford, a general practice legal office firm that represents clients nationwide. Suzanne is a Solicitor, Tax Advisor, Trust and Estate Advisor and a Qualified Mediator. Suzanne and her award winning team of 18 have a unique client focus.

Catherine Power, Highly Commended winner of the Network Ireland Employee Shining Star 2025 Category, is a qualified ACA accountant, payroll manager for Albatel, and a part-time dairy farmer, Catherine's career journey is a testament to her dedication and diverse skillset.

At the all-day event that focused on celebrating the best of Kerry, Network Ireland Waterford Branch, showcased the very best of our county's business community on this prestigious national platform. Represented in all eight award categories, showcasing the strength and diversity of female talent in the region:

  • Emerging Businesswoman - Pippa Halley, Halley Consulting 
  • Solo Businesswoman - Lynn Shead, Natures Alchemy 
  • Creative Professional - Louisa Murphy, Saints Colour Specialist 
  • Employee – Rising Star - Cody King, MacuHealth 
  • Employee – Shining Star - Catherine Power - Albatel (Highly Commended Winner) 
  • STEM Professional - Dr. Mary Doyle-Kent, Dept. of Engineering Technology, SETU - Waterford 
  • Established Businesswoman - Suzanne Parker - Parker Law Solicitors (Highly Commended Winner) 
  • Networker - Sinead O’Neill, Sinead O’Neill Consulting
Network Ireland Waterford branch expressed sincere gratitude to their valued sponsors AIB and the Waterford Local Enterprise Office as well as to the individual category sponsors who helped make the branch awards possible, Haleon - STEM Professional, Energia - Emerging Businesswoman, Granville Hotel - Solo Businesswoman, UPMC Whitfield - Employee Rising Star.

The Network Ireland Waterford branch extended congratulations to all the finalists, and a special shout-out to the well-deserved winners: Suzanne Parker of Parker Law and Catherine Power of Albatel.