Susanne Kerins

Bachelor of Business

Sligo

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course

My third-level education journey was probably unconventional compared to most but ended up being very rewarding. I initially enrolled in a Level 8 degree program at NUIG but quickly realized that the large university environment wasn’t the right fit for me. Feeling constrained, I decided to step back and reassess my path, ultimately choosing to drop out and look for a more phased approach to my education.

I began with a Level 6 accountancy degree at ATU Sligo, where I discovered my passion for business and marketing through a module in the second year. This newfound interest inspired me to pursue a Level 7 Bachelor of Business Studies.

What about the course did you particularly enjoy?

The environment at ATU Sligo was a much better fit for me compared to the larger university setting. I appreciated the smaller class sizes, which meant greater interaction and engagement with lecturers. The phased approach also gave me the time and flexibility to explore my interests and determine the right degree path for my future.

What is the best thing about the course that new applicants should know?

I’m sure the course curriculum has only improved since my time there, but I found it to be well-rounded and highly engaging. The blend of topics provided a strong foundation, and I particularly appreciated the focus on continuous assessment. I also enjoyed the variety of projects, especially those involving collaboration with external businesses and group work

Any favourite modules during your time studying?

International Marketing, Sales Practices and Branding were some of my favourite topics.

What key skills did you learn while studying at ATU that have influenced your career?

While I gained a solid theoretical foundation from the course, which was invaluable for my early career, the most significant takeaway was the development of my communication skills. I feel this was particularly honed through collaborative projects with external businesses and the higher level of engagement made possible by smaller class sizes and close interaction with lecturers.

Can you share some details of your career path to date?

My career began with various sales and marketing roles across FMCG, retail, and media. After gaining great experience in these industries, I realized I wanted to pursue a more global and senior role. This ambition led me back to ATU Sligo to complete an MSc in Marketing.

Following my postgraduate studies, I joined LotusWorks, a global engineering services company. After about a year, I transitioned into the tech industry, taking on a Marketing Executive role at Cora Systems, a global project and portfolio management software company.

I’m now approaching eight years with Cora Systems, during which I’ve advanced to the role of Chief Marketing Officer. In 2024, I’ve also expanded my responsibilities by stepping into an interim Chief Operating Officer position.

What does your current role involve?

As CMO, my primary goal is to drive revenue and expand Cora’s global footprint, ensuring the company’s sustained profitability and success. To do this, I am responsible for crafting and executing a go-to-market strategy that sets Cora apart from its competitors and solidifies its industry presence worldwide. Key to this is the creation of compelling value propositions that resonate with partners, clients, and the market at large.

What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?

I have three key tips to share:

1. Gain Experience – Get hands-on experience wherever and however you can. While the theoretical knowledge from your course is essential, there’s no substitute for practical, real-world learning. Don’t hesitate to proactively reach out to companies you admire, even if they don’t have advertised openings. Initiative and persistence often open doors.
2. Master Data – Marketing today is anything but “fluffy.” It’s a data-driven discipline where success is measured by the revenue it generates for the business. To thrive, you need to understand how to capture, analyse, and leverage data effectively. The ability to link your marketing efforts to tangible business outcomes will set you apart.
3. Find a Mentor – A great mentor can be a game-changer in your career. I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors guide me at different stages, and I still rely on them today. A mentor can offer valuable insights, provide guidance through challenges, and help you reach your full potential.

What advice would you give a first-year student starting in ATU Sligo?

Show up and listen – By simply showing up to class, actively listening and asking questions, you’ll transform your learning experience and make it easier overall.