‘No two days are ever the same’ says Aillwee Burren Experience managing director Nuala Mulqueeney

The Clare Echo is proud to be media partner of The Clare Business Excellence Awards. In the lead-up to the Gala Awards ceremony on Thursday, November 19, 2026 at the Rine Hotel, The Clare Echo is doing a Business Spotlight series sponsored by AMQ Accountants and Auditors. This week, we speak to Nuala Mulqueeney, Managing Director, Aillwee Burren Experience 

When you were smaller, what did you want to be when you grow up?

I always liked the idea of being an Air Hostess!

Tell us about your career progression today?

A lot of my career has revolved around Aillwee – I worked across all its areas while in University. I have an B.A. in English and Politics from the University of  Galway and a Post Graduate Higher Diploma in Tourism and Business from the University of Limerick. I have also completed an IMI Certificate in Strategic Business Management. I became Managing Director of Aillwee in 2019. I also served on the ISME National Council and have recently been elected to the Board of AVEA – the Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions.

What’s the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?

Definitely  the variety of my job. No two days are ever the same which keeps things interesting.

What motivates you?

Seeing a project through from its inception to execution – no matter how long it takes!

What advice do you have for your 15 year old self?

Have patience, stay interested, be yourself and don’t bother looking backwards.

If you weren’t in this job, what do you think you’d be doing now?

Well, I was headed for a career in banking if I hadn’t returned to Aillwee so who knows….

What’s your greatest life or career achievement to date?

I think steering  Aillwee through the Covid 19 pandemic and successfully emerging having led the largest Company Capital Investment project and Rebrand to date, along with a great team, is probably what I am most proud of. Getting to celebrate 50 years of welcoming visitors and colleagues alike to a place I love is also pretty special.

Who or what is the biggest influence on your life?

My Mam, Anni and Dad, Micheal have influenced me greatly are my biggest supporters  and mentors – they give me heaps of encouragement while also listening to my rants, allowing me to blow off steam!!!

What’s the life dream now?

I’d love to make more time for leisure travel.

How do you switch off?

Walking in The Burren or along the North Clare coast – I’m spoilt for choice!

When are you at your happiest?

When my girls, Emma and Joanna, my husband James and myself get to spend time together.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I like to sing.

What might we be surprised to know about you?

I’m half German. Mam and Dad met in Germany 65 years ago and married in Ireland 64 years ago!

Is there anything else that you’d like to share?

I would like to take the opportunity to Thank sincerely all Aillwees’ visitors, team members, suppliers, partners and collaborators who have chosen to visit Aillwee and who we have worked alongside for the last 50 years. It continues to be a privilege – here’s to the next 50!

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