In the rolling hills of Tumen, County Galway, one woman is revolutionising the landscape of Irish agriculture. Ursula Kelly, the dynamic Managing Director of Cormac Tagging, has taken her family’s agribusiness to new heights, blending tradition with innovation. As one of the FLIARA 20 ambassadors, Ursula is not only a leader in her field but also a beacon of inspiration for women in agriculture and rural areas.
Roots in Agriculture
Ursula’s journey into the agricultural sector is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Growing up on a sheep farm in the west of Ireland, she was immersed in the rhythms of rural life from a young age. “Agriculture has always been in my blood,” she says with a smile. Her father, who managed the farm with five daughters, instilled in her a strong work ethic and a passion for agribusiness. This early exposure laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to the field.
A visionary leader
After qualifying as an accountant, Ursula returned to the family business at a pivotal moment. Cormac Tagging was poised for growth but needed a new direction. Ursula saw an opportunity to diversify their product line and expand their market reach. Her innovative spirit led her to spearhead the introduction of cattle tags to their portfolio, a move that would prove transformative. “We were already supplying sheep tags, but entering the cattle tag market was a game-changer,” she recalls.
In December 2016, Cormac Tagging successfully tendered for an exclusive cattle tag contract, a lucrative venture that Ursula played a central role in securing. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era for the company, positioning it as a leading supplier of cattle, sheep, goat, and pig tags across Ireland.
Embracing Innovation
One of Ursula’s most significant contributions to the business has been her embrace of digital technology. She led the development of an e-commerce platform that not only streamlined operations but also expanded Cormac Tagging’s market reach. “The digital transformation became the engine of our business,” Ursula explains. By digitising in-house processes and enhancing their online presence, the company improved efficiency and customer service.
Ursula is a strong advocate for digital adoption in rural businesses. She believes that every farm and agribusiness should leverage digital tools to enhance their operations. “There are huge gains to be made by adopting digital technology and social media,” she emphasizes. Her vision extends beyond her own company, as she encourages other women in farming to embrace these innovations to drive their businesses forward.
Overcoming Challenges
Ursula’s path to success has not been without its challenges. Navigating the generational gap between her and her parents, particularly in terms of business approaches, posed significant emotional and mental hurdles. “There were tough moments, but we managed to bridge that gap,” she reflects.
As a female leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Ursula has faced obstacles in accessing finance and gaining support at various levels. However, her determination and strategic networking have been key to overcoming these barriers. “Perseverance and building a robust network have been crucial,” she notes.
Championing women in agriculture
Ursula’s role as a FLIARA ambassador highlights her commitment to showcasing the innovative capacity of women in farming and rural areas. She hopes that FLIARA will shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of women in these sectors and foster a supportive network for sharing experiences and knowledge.
“FLIARA can provide a community of like-minded individuals facing similar challenges,” she says. “It’s about coming together to push the boundaries of what’s possible in rural innovation.”
Looking Ahead
With an eye on the future, Ursula aims to further expand Cormac Tagging’s international presence and continue innovating their product offerings and business processes. She envisions FLIARA playing a crucial role in these goals by facilitating collaborations and knowledge exchange across Europe.
Her advice to aspiring women innovators in agriculture is simple yet powerful: “Believe in your vision, persist through challenges, and embrace the power of networking. There’s immense value in connecting with others who have faced similar obstacles.”
A Vision for the Future
Ursula Kelly is not just a successful businesswoman; she is a trailblazer for women-led innovation in rural areas. Her journey from a sheep farm in County Galway to the helm of a leading agribusiness is a testament to her vision, resilience, and commitment to progress. As she continues to drive change and inspire others, Ursula’s impact on the agricultural landscape of Ireland—and beyond—is undeniable.