Aoife Byrne

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I studied Civil Engineering in college, which laid the groundwork for my analytical and problem-solving skills. Early in my career, I worked as a System Tester at Accenture, diving headfirst into technical challenges. This experience gave me valuable insights into the level of detail necessary for writing requirements.

Over time, I transitioned to business analysis, where I found my true passion. I have also taken on some project manager roles, which helped me hone my organisational and leadership abilities. However, my preference lies in diving deep into the details. As a result, I found myself back in the BA space.

Can you tell us about your role with the Project Foundry?

In my dual role at the Project Foundry, I wear two hats: one as a Senior Business Analyst and the other as a BA Team Lead. As a Senior BA, I’m helping to design and build a custom-developed, responsive application for our client. The app will replace a paper-based process, saving the client time and effort and reducing costs.

As a BA Team Lead, I am managing our business analysts. My focus is on supporting the BAs and expanding the team.

What motivates you to do what you do?

What drives me in my career is the genuine satisfaction I get from helping people and solving problems. There’s a unique thrill in untangling complex issues and devising solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations. Whether it’s streamlining a process, enhancing a system, or supporting my team’s growth, the impact of making someone’s work life easier and more efficient is what motivates me every day.

How have you evolved personally and professionally over the years?

Over the years, I’ve seen a significant boost in my confidence, both in my abilities and in my interactions with others. This growth has been partly shaped by my experiences with various management styles. I’ve learned from observing managers who tended to bully or micromanage, recognising the negative effect it can have on morale and individual well-being.

These experiences have been instrumental in moulding me into the manager I am today—one who understands the importance of empowerment over intimidation. I’ve learned to foster a supportive environment and to advocate for my team, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard. Standing up to workplace bullying has not only strengthened my resolve, but also reinforced my commitment to positive leadership.

What does ‘culture’ in a work environment mean to you?

To me, ‘culture’ in a work environment is fundamentally about respect and reciprocity. It’s the way we treat our colleagues and the way we interact with one another. A positive culture fosters an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and respected, which in turn encourages individuals to extend the same courtesy to their peers. It’s this cycle of mutual respect that creates a thriving, collaborative, and supportive workplace.

Why is it important to you?

The importance of a respectful work environment cannot be overstated. It’s essential that everyone, regardless of their position, is treated with dignity and consideration. This ethos starts at the top; when leadership exemplifies respect, it sets a tone that resonates throughout the organisation. Such an approach cultivates an open, professional, and comfortable work environment where staff feel valued and motivated. In my view, it’s this culture of respect that is the cornerstone of a happy and productive workplace.

How do you maintain a healthy balance between your work and personal life?

Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is a priority for me. I’ve learned the value of setting boundaries, such as turning off my laptop in the evenings and stepping away from work. This practice is crucial for well-being and productivity. Of course, I’m committed to addressing emergencies that require immediate attention, but I firmly believe that self-care is paramount. Most tasks can indeed wait until the next day, allowing for a refreshed and focused approach.

Are there any misconceptions about your work/field that you would like to clarify?

One common misconception in our field is the belief that all business analysts aspire to become project managers. This view often relegates the BA role to a mere stepping stone, which is not only inaccurate but also shortsighted. While there is some overlap, Business Analysis and Project Management require distinct skill sets.

Many projects fail because they undervalue the analysis phase, rushing through it without due diligence. Thorough business analysis is critical to project success. It’s a specialised discipline that, when recognised and invested in as a distinct career path, can yield remarkable benefits for companies. Recognising the unique contributions of BAs can lead to more successful outcomes and a stronger organisational structure.

Is there a particular aspect of your work that you are especially passionate about?

My engineering background has instilled in me a deep-rooted passion for solving problems. There’s something about a challenging puzzle that I find irresistibly engaging. The most rewarding aspect of my work is not just identifying the optimal solution to a problem but also witnessing its successful implementation. It’s this process of discovery and execution that truly excites me and fuels my enthusiasm for what I do.

How do you deliver value to clients?

Delivering value to clients is at the heart of what I do. It’s about finding the best solution—one that aligns perfectly with their needs and goals. But it doesn’t stop there; I also play a pivotal role in helping them implement this solution effectively. The true measure of success for me is seeing the tangible results that come from our collaboration, knowing that we have achieved the best possible outcome together.

What is the one thing that very few people know about you?

A fun fact about me that not many people know is that I starred in a Dustin The Turkey music video as a kid. It was for the song “Christmas in Dublin.” We recorded it in the middle of O’Connell Street during the summer but had to dress in layers of winter clothes so that it looked seasonal. We got a lot of strange looks!