This Thursday, October 1st, the winner of the BusinessPlus.ie and Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC) 40 Under 40 competition will be revealed at ITIC’s annual conference, where five finalists have been shortlisted.
The series has celebrated 40 talented individuals from across Irish tourism, including those working in hotels, visitor attractions, tour guiding, tour operations and destination marketing.
Their achievements span business growth, innovation, sustainable tourism support, and colleague development.
The five finalists exemplify the talent and contributions of all 40 nominees:
Ciara McCaughey, Sales and Marketing Manager at Vintage Tea Trips, expanded the business from one bus and six staff to four vintage buses and a team of 42. Her nomination highlights creative marketing and seasonal experiences, boosting tour numbers and passenger counts.
Jess Sinnott, Interim General Manager at Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens, rose from café assistant to lead the heritage site. She developed its volunteer program and enhanced visitor experiences, focusing on historical connections and engaging young people in heritage tourism.
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Colin Martin, Tour Experience Manager at the Guinness Storehouse, brings storytelling, hospitality, and Irish food and drink expertise. Previously involved in the Roe & Co Distillery Experience, his nomination emphasizes immersive visitor experiences, creative partnerships, and colleague development.
Caoimhe Rice, Director of Sales at Moloney & Kelly DMC, combines commercial leadership with international support for emerging talent. She promotes Ireland as an incentive travel destination and serves as the young leader representative on SITE’s international board, supporting mentorship, education, and global connections.
Zack O’Doherty, Director of Howth Adventures, advocates for regenerative tourism rooted in Howth’s natural beauty, history, and community. Leading hiking experiences, he prioritizes staff wellbeing and the protection of Howth’s biodiversity and culture.
The announcement will be part of a full day discussing the industry’s future at The Convention Centre Dublin.
This year’s ITIC conference is themed ‘Adjust, Adapt, Accelerate: Irish Tourism in Uncertain Times’, with broadcaster Dearbhail McDonald returning as moderator.
Speakers include Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, BBC journalist Caitríona Perry, Tourism Ireland CEO Alice Mansergh, and Fáilte Ireland CEO Caroline Bocquel.
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