Mary McKenna, owner and managing direct of Dublin-based tour operator Tour America, has been recognised by the inaugural Everywoman in Travel Awards in the UK.
Over the past 18 years, Everywoman, a membership organisation that champions the advancement of women in business to close the gender pay gap, has celebrated the achievements of “exceptional” women working in technology, retail, entrepreneurship and transport and logistics.
Ms McKenna, who set up her business 22 years ago, was named the overall woman of the year at the announcement on Friday of the organisation’s travel awards.
“After starting the business in 1995 in her sitting room, Mary persevered in the face of adversity and built Tour America into what is now recognised as one of the best-run companies in Ireland with a turnover of over €20 million,” according to Everywoman.
“As the only female entrepreneur in Ireland to run a tour operator, she has successfully grown her business over the last 22 years, employing 50 people, delivering 58 per cent repeat business and opening offices in Dublin and Cork.”