To mark our 75th Anniversary, we are shining a light on some NCI alumni to showcase the amazing talent the College has produced throughout the years.
Sinéad Conroy, Senior Brand and Communications Manager, The Irish Times
Alumni Spotlight: Sinéad Conroy
MSc in International Business (2021)
Senior Brand and Communications Manager, The Irish Times
About Sinéad
Sinéad Conroy completed an MSc in International Business at National College of Ireland between 2019 and 2021 while working full-time in a marketing role. Looking back on her studies, two moments stand out as having a lasting impact on the way she thinks about business and decision-making.
One was Professor Philip McGovern's lecture on self-justification, which was part of a Management module. It explored how organisations and individuals self-justify decisions they make even when confronted with information to counter their position. The topic sparked lively discussion and debate on its role in business, sales and decision-making in general and remains something Sinéad continues to refer to in both her professional and personal life.
Another highlight was Assistant Professor David Hurley's Marketing Practice module. Having chosen a career in marketing following her undergraduate studies in Commerce, Sinéad particularly valued the practical, real-world focus of the class. Drawing on contemporary examples and case studies from brands, the module provided insights she could immediately apply in her day-to-day role, even as teaching moved online during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career Growth and Progression
Since completing her masters, Sinéad's career has continued to evolve. Her studies prompted both a career and industry move that ultimately led her to her current position as Senior Brand and Communications Manager with The Irish Times.
In this role, she is responsible for building and promoting one of Ireland's most recognised media brands in an increasingly fractious media landscape. It is a role she describes as both rewarding and interesting, providing opportunities to contribute to important conversations about journalism, media and communications.
"I have been able to apply the learnings from my postgraduate studies in real-time to make a valuable impact in my role. I am proud of that synergy!"
Looking back, Sinéad is most proud of her continued commitment to learning. Successfully completing two master's degrees part-time, expanding both her theoretical and practical knowledge on a wide range of subjects while working full-time required dedication and perseverance.
The Value of Lifelong Learning
Sinéad credits her time at NCI with not only broadening her professional knowledge, but also reinforcing a genuine love of learning. Her experience studying part-time while working full-time demonstrated the value of lifelong learning and inspired her to continue developing her skills.
Following her graduation, she went on to complete a second postgraduate qualification, an MA in Political Communication. Reflecting on her educational journey, she believes this is something she may never have pursued without the positive experience she had at NCI.
"My time at NCI further instilled a love of learning in me that I am very grateful for."
For Sinéad, the opportunity to combine academic learning with real-world application has been particularly valuable. Studying while working enabled her to put theory into practice immediately, creating a strong connection between education and professional development.
Advice for Current Students
Embrace it! Don't look at formal education as a necessary evil or become too focused on the destination. Sinéad encourages students to choose subject areas they have an interest in and embrace the learning process as the experience is rewarding. She advises students to stay curious and make the most of opportunities that education can provide.
"It's hard work but the experience is just as valuable as the result."
As National College of Ireland celebrates 75 years of educating and empowering learners, Sinéad's story demonstrates how lifelong learning can open new doors, inspire career change and create opportunities for continued personal and professional growth.
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