Caoimhe Kiely
Vice President Marketing & Communications ENorth at Dassault Systèmes
“The stereotypes still exist, even subconsciously, so it's a constant challenge to stand up for what you believe in, what you want to do, as well as for and against what's expected of you.”
Read Caoimhe’s full profile below
What do you do every day?
As Vice President of Marketing I am responsible for providing strategic direction and driving company growth through global marketing, with a focus on demand generation and building the sales pipeline (B2B).
I create marketing communications and execute marketing campaigns across Product Launch, Telemarketing, Prospecting, Industry Events, User Conferences/Customer Nurturing, Partnerships, Analyst and Press Relations, Web, SEO and Social Media.
Why do you love it?
My job is always varied and never dull. Our software solutions enable life sciences companies to meet global regulations for researching and manufacturing drugs and medicines. I work in an industry that is always changing, always adapting and always trying to improve lives and cure illness. I meet truly inspirational people who spend their entire lives learning about illness and aiming to treat and cure it. Our software enables them to do this in a regulated way, with control and quality paramount through the entire lifecycle.
What were your moments of fear and challenges in your career?
It was a difficult learning curve in the beginning--getting up to speed on a complex product for a complicated industry. But it was an exciting challenge, and even after 11 years in this company, I'm challenged daily with new learning. I took two extended maternity leaves in the last decade, and both times feared the return to work, getting the work/life balance right, and ramping back up after spending months with babies and toddlers. I believe women can fit it all in, particularly if you have a partner who is 100% supportive and will take on 50% + of the family duties. The stereotypes still exist, even subconsciously, so it's a constant challenge to stand up for what you believe in, what you want to do, as well as for and against what's expected of you.
What are some of the latest innovations in science that you are most excited about?
Personalized medicine is awesome. It has its challenges, but I think the move away from 'one drug fits all / bulk manufacture' is the future of medicine and will truly enable us to view and address illness differently. Technology is changing to keep pace, and together with personalized treatment offers huge opportunity.
Where did you grow up?
Dublin, Ireland.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
I didn't like my teachers very much but I really liked my university lecturers and professors, many of whom were extremely knowledgeable and inspiring. I've met some of my favorite teachers in my professional life, many of whom are colleagues.
Describe an experience where you adapted your approach to resolve a sticky situation.
In general I try to avoid confrontation at all costs, but sometime you have to be stronger or more aggressive than you naturally are, particularly in the business world.
What is your unique talent?
I generally like people and want to get to know them and get on with them. This could be considered a talent in Marketing as it's all about engaging people. I can hold a seriously technical conversation with board level decision makers, but also chat about what matters to people, their kids, plans, travels etc.
Tell us about your personal style.
I prefer to be over-dressed than under-dressed. I leave trendy/edgy outfits for nights out with my friends or crazy sisters, and aim for elegant in work - Kate Middleton's clothes are perfect for the office.
Is there a current book or book you love?
I'm reading the 'Divergent' series at the moment, as a recommended follow on to Game of Thrones. I love the classics, particularly Pride & Prejudice, but read just about anything. In case I read too much candyfloss, I always aim to read the Booker Prize list annually.
What is your favorite website or fun activity?
Any book on my Kindle app.
Who inspires you?
My friends, my family, and my kids.
What’s next for you?
My company has just been acquired by a much larger company. I'm excited to see where this takes me and what new opportunities I'll get!
