Fionnuala Brabazon is chief executive of Killruddery Estate in Bray, Co Wicklow. Killruddery Christmas Farm Market features artisan goods, festive treats and local crafts, and will be open in Killruddery Yard until December 23rd. The Snow Queen Christmas show, by Broken Theatre Circus, runs until January 5th. killruddery.com
Are you a saver or a spender?
I love to buy lovely things and am not afraid to spend money. I’ve never been great at actually having enough money to save in my personal account. Children’s accounts and work accounts are a different matter.
What was the first job you ever received money for, and how much were you paid?
Helping in a garden, on a Saturday, a bicycle ride away. I still remember the delight in eating a peach I was given by the proud old lady, from her few and delicious peaches grown in a greenhouse in the west of Ireland. I was 11.
Do you shop around for better value?
Sometimes. As well as the price, I am motivated by where what I’m looking for has come from, who made it and, of course, efficiency en route to what I need or want. Time is usually my challenge.
Your work questions answered: Can bonuses be deducted pro-rata during a maternity leave?
Palantir, company at centre of row surrounding TD Eoin Hayes, is no stranger to controversy at home or abroad
Tips for avoiding a January credit-card hangover
Can I work for my foreign employer from my home in Ireland?
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
Personal? Art – €10,000 for a 17th-century piece that I had a sentimental attachment to.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
Food directly from farmers and producers of clean food. They get the money, my family, and I get the health benefits.
Is there anything you regret spending money on?
Many clothes and shoes disappoint after a while. I am hypersensitive to things being comfortable and feeling beautiful.
Do you haggle over prices?
Rarely for personal items, and sometimes in business.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrency – and why not?
No! I like to invest in what is around me or nearby.
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
I’m working on it! We have developed a business based on and around my husband’s family home, Killruddery. We have enterprises on the estate, and we believe this will all come good in the end and bring security for Killruddery’s future and our families, also. My retirement plan is somewhat intertwined with all of this.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
A Joules tweed quilt checked jacket. It is absolutely warm and lovely, but will it last? I dream of getting a beautiful Irish tweed and tailored coat – it’s on my bucket list.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Travelling in my late teens and twenties was my greatest incentive for saving. Of course, we put aside chunks in our business but I will admit this is not my strong point.
Have you ever lost money?
Yes – €50 in a restaurant in Dublin last Christmas. Does missing a flight count? Or missing an appointment where you have to pay anyway? Of course, there are always ways to lose opportunities to make money, like running a film festival for four years and bad years in business. What counts?
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
I’ve never gambled, or not officially anyway. I think I’ve played poker once or twice with friends. I guess you could say I am not risk-averse and that I am okay with working in an uncertain climate.
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
I am motivated by the story behind the product. I prioritise local gifts, crafts, and produce from local makers, and I like to buy directly or at markets. My worst habit is compulsive buying!
How much money do you have on you now?
In my personal account? €433.90.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
- Sign up for Business push alerts and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone
- Find The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date
- Our Inside Business podcast is published weekly – Find the latest episode here
