Originally from near Clonakilty in West Cork, Sinead is based in Limerick where she has lived for several years. She was appointed Food Tourism officer in April 2015. With a mother who cooked, a father from a farming background, and the experience of working in a family restaurant business growing up, Sinead has a comprehensive perspective on Irish food and hospitality.
Sinead gained experience in a variety of management roles in the hotel and restaurant sector before joining Fáilte Ireland in 2005, originally as a Restaurant Skills Instructor and then Business Development Advisor and Client Services officer in trade engagement roles.
Prior to joining the Food Tourism team she worked in International Leisure Sales, a role in which she continued to work closely with industry. Sinead studied Hospitality Management at CIT and Business Management at University of Limerick.
Sinead is passionate about food and, in particular, about the overall food experience citing the importance of “atmosphere, vibe, place, people”, as much as the food itself. She believes Ireland has a unique offering in its quality of producer and genuine warm people and is committed to showcasing that through memorable food experiences that evoke a unique sense of place, culture and hospitality.
She is committed to working closely with industry and the Fáilte Ireland Food Champions to differentiate Ireland as a food tourism destination. She also wants to enhance the ‘food in tourism’ experience of every tourist. She believe Ireland can deliver an “authentic food experience, in a natural and honest way".