For Éadaoin Carrick, Executive Chairperson of Cantec Group and a finalist for the Villa Maria Women of Vision Awards 2025, leadership is about building a strong, connected team and fostering a culture of innovation. In this piece, she shares insights into her leadership journey, family legacy, and the values that drive her both in business and life.
From Humble Beginnings to Executive Chair
Éadaoin’s career began in retail and the Civil Service, experiences that shaped her people-focused approach to leadership. “I learned the importance of understanding the processes of a business from the ground up. And learning how a company ticks internally is key to building a supportive environment that attracts and retains customers.”
Cantec’s roots run deep in her family. Founded in 1994 by her parents to supply business equipment to local businesses in Waterford, the company has grown into a national powerhouse. “I’m really proud to have picked up the mantle from my parents, to complete a management buy-out with my brother Greg (our CEO) when my parents retired. It’s a privilege to lead a company that has been part of my life for so long, and to see it thrive on a national scale.”
Thriving Through Change
Cantec has weathered recessions, digital revolutions, and even a pandemic. Éadaoin credits their resilience to a forward-thinking mindset. “Our success lies in our willingness to embrace new technology, new ways of working, and fresh routes to market while always staying true to our core ethos – providing a great place to work for our colleagues and delivering high-quality products and service to our customers.”
While some might see the printed page as ‘last century,’ Éadaoin remains determined to keep Cantec relevant. “We understand that change is difficult, so we take a softly-softly approach, evolving gradually but relentlessly to ensure we don’t get left behind.”
Leading with Heart
For Éadaoin, the most valuable asset in any business is its culture. “Skills can be learned, but culture is innate. We lead by example, respect each other, and trust our co-workers to get on with their tasks. It can be challenging as the team grows and some members work remotely, but mutual respect and trust remain essential.”
Community at the Core
Beyond her role at Cantec, Éadaoin is deeply involved in the Waterford community, serving through the local Chamber, Council, and arts organisations. “Community engagement has given me an opportunity to meet incredible people and give back in meaningful ways. My belief is that we all only get this one precious life, so we’ve got to live our best life and help others live theirs.”
Balancing Business and Creativity
While driven and competitive in business, Éadaoin also finds fulfilment in creativity, from singing in choirs to gardening and the arts. “I’m one of those strange individuals with a dual personality! I’m driven and ambitious in business, but I also crave creative outlets. These sides of me feed each other, keeping me inspired.”
A Woman of Vision
For Éadaoin, being a ‘Woman of Vision’ means being ambitious, resilient, and supportive. “It’s about being a role model for future great women and being ready to support others, giving them a lift up. It’s about doing the hard miles and supporting communities – family, co-workers, local community, and beyond.”
Her advice to the next generation of women in business? “Believe in yourself, ask questions, always be learning, and when you encounter a challenge, keep working on it until you find a way around it – never give up.”