For the past decade, I have had the privilege of working at IT Solutions, a small Irish company that stands out, not just for its technological expertise, but for the visionary woman who founded it. I have always been fascinated by Evelyn’s story of launching her own business back in 1989. In an era when female entrepreneurs were few and far between, how did she navigate the challenges of a male-dominated industry and achieve success? Recently, I had the chance to sit down with Evelyn and chat with her about her pioneering journey.
When I asked Evelyn how she managed to establish her brand in an industry largely led by men, her answer was refreshingly candid. She admitted that founding IT Solutions was initially a “selfish” decision. At the time, she was balancing the demands of raising a young family while working for a multinational company that required extensive travel.
Driven by the desire for a better work-life balance, Evelyn took on a role with a company providing cheque clearing services fora major retail bank. When she realised the company was struggling, she saw an opportunity to make a difference. With remarkable courage and vision, Evelyn founded IT Solutions Ltd and successfully secured the cheque clearing contract with the bank for her own company. Her journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of seizing opportunities. She brought three colleagues along with her, and two of them continue to work with the company to this day, while the third remained until his retirement.
With a revenue stream from day one, she was able to secure funding for new equipment and expand her operations. Evelyn ensured that her new company differentiated itself through exceptional customer service, setting a high standard that has helped IT Solutions thrive.
When asked whether she had any female role models or mentors, Evelyn’s answer was striking—she had none. She built her career entirely on her own merit, navigating the corporate world without external female guidance. Her narrative is a testament to self-reliance in an era where women in leadership roles were often underestimated.
There were, of course, unique challenges along the way: she described how she often found herself as the only woman in the room, facing the added pressure of having to work harder to prove her worth. In some cases, she was not even recognised as the director of her own company. At one event, she recalled how a junior male colleague was mistakenly assumed to be the one in charge—a frustrating yet all too common experience for women in business.
Beyond gender related challenges, Evelyn also had to navigate broader economic difficulties. IT Solutions has survived four recessions, a feat she attributes to careful financial management and an ability to identify niche opportunities. Though she initially planned to take a step back after the first 15 years, she remains actively involved in the company’s operations today.
I think you will agree that Evelyn’s career serves as an inspiration, not just for women in business but for anyone forging their own path in a competitive industry. Her quiet but strong leadership has shaped IT Solutions into a company where employees feel genuinely valued and respected. She proves that success is not just about smart business decisions, it is about creating a workplace where people want to stay and grow.
Happy International Women’s Day!
