The Renatus Podcast “I get such a buzz from working with entrepreneurs” – with Julie Sinnamon, former CEO of Enterprise Ireland
Oct 3, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Julie Sinnamon, the former CEO of Enterprise Ireland, shares her extensive experience supporting Irish entrepreneurs. She talks about the evolution of female entrepreneurship, revealing a rise in female leadership in startups to 25–30%. Julie emphasizes the importance of exports and outlines how Enterprise Ireland balances support for both small startups and scalable companies. She also explores unique traits of entrepreneurs, the shift toward inclusive leadership, and the untapped potential of retired founders mentoring the next generation.
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Humble Family Business Roots
- Julie grew up in a large family involved in her father's poultry and petrol station businesses.
- Early hands-on work taught her customer skills and a strong sense of business impact on a community.
A Career Sparked By Entrepreneurs
- Julie joined IDA after studying foreign direct investment and quickly found she loved working with entrepreneurs.
- She says working with entrepreneurs gave her a real buzz and shaped her career focus.
Leadership Development Is Core
- Enterprise Ireland combines funding, 40 overseas offices, R&D and leadership development to scale Irish firms.
- Julie highlights leadership development as one of the most critical services for raising ambition and skills.
