60 Seconds With Eimear Byrne, Managing Director at SD Worx Ireland
Eimear Byrne is the Managing Director at SD Worx Ireland, where she drives strategic growth, cultural development, and operational excellence across the Irish market. With a background spanning professional services, technology, payroll, and people-focused leadership, she led the successful integration of Intelligo into SD Worx and continues to champion innovation and customer-centric value creation.
What was your first job?
My first job was in KPMG corporate tax, where I worked while obtaining Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) and Irish Tax Institute (ITI) qualifications. It was here that my work ethic formed, grounded in responsibility, professionalism, integrity, and resilience – qualities that continue to shape and strengthen my leadership today.
What are your main priorities and goals in your current role?
As Managing Director, my priorities are to strengthen SD Worx Ireland’s market presence, ensure operational excellence, and build a culture where people contribute, innovate, and grow.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
A mix of deliberate choice and natural progression. The tech industry appealed to me and, having trained in tax, I had experience in interpreting legislation.
SD Worx offers the perfect combination of technology and legislation, with an important societal benefit as we provide solutions that help organisations look after their people and ensure they are paid accurately and on time.
How do you motivate yourself and your team?
I am motivated by the autonomy I have to set the strategic direction, the opportunities I see, and the clarity of purpose that underpins the impact we deliver.
Ireland consistently punches above its weight within the wider SD Worx group – and rightly so, given our exceptional products and services, clients, and people. Recognising our unique position, our clear vision, and the “why” behind what we do is a powerful motivator for the team and for me, as it creates a shared sense of purpose and pride that drives us forward.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
Success to me is consistently achieving meaningful results while enabling others to thrive alongside and staying true to our values.
How do you relax?
Carving out time to unwind takes conscious effort. I have a demanding job and a busy home with four young children. I’m an avid walker and reader, a gym enthusiast, an amateur gardener, and an over-eager volunteer for all sorts.
What is your favourite (non-business) book?
I love historical fiction, particularly told from a woman’s perspective. Anything by Kristin Hannah is a favourite.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
There are many pieces of advice I live by. One I hold strong is “Be stubborn on vision, flexible on details” as situations evolve and different solutions become apparent. This mindset helps me remain adaptable, calm, and thoughtful in fast-moving environments.
How do you handle adversity?
Adversity is not a term that I resonate with. Leadership is about resilience and the ability to identify opportunities and solutions. I stay focused on what I can influence and the objectives we’re working towards. Strong networks play a vital role in the ability to pivot.
What are the aspirations for the future of the business?
Our vision is to be the leading trusted provider of integrated payroll and HR solutions. This involves bringing new solutions to market, innovation, customer centricity, and a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Ultimately, we want to build a business for long-term sustainable growth.
This interview was originally published by Business & Finance on 17 March 2026.