"The Women in Food & Drink Awards are a powerful platform for shining a spotlight on the women who are driving this industry forward. By championing exceptional female talent, they do more than celebrate success – they spark ambition in the next wave of leaders and innovators.
In a sector traditionally dominated by men, it’s essential to showcase diverse talent and perspectives. A woman’s career journey often differs from a man’s, and that reality is unlikely to change. Having worked tirelessly to drive my career forward after my maternity leaves, I know how vital it is that women feel they can be there for their families and still be successful in their careers. Supporting these awards highlights the importance of inclusivity and encourages organisations to uplift women in their networks. Future female talent and leadership are critical to the long-term strength and resilience of the food and drink industry. Together, we can create a more balanced and dynamic food and drink sector that benefits everyone. I urge everyone to participate and nominate the outstanding women they know!"
Margaret Dineen is the CEO and Founder of Irish Food Trade Connect, an innovative trading platform dedicated to supporting the growth and scale of food and drink businesses. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Margaret is passionate about helping companies trade profitably both domestically and internationally. She is a strong advocate for gender equality at the boardroom table, where, as of 2025, 27.9% of board members in large Irish enterprises are women and 22% in SMEs. Margaret believes that women's skillsets are pivotal at the strategic level, and she inspires the next generation of women in food and drink to pursue their ambitions.
