Veronica Rahneberg, EY Ireland Consulting Partner, and head of Managed Services, shares her life and business lessons.
Veronica Rahneberg is a Partner and Head of Managed Services Consulting at EY Ireland with 30 years of experience in digital transformation and IT.
Her career spans roles in pioneering CRM SaaS, global consulting with IBM in Australia, and senior leadership positions at Fujitsu.
“I’m known for delivering on promises with transparency and no surprises”
Passionate about leveraging innovative technologies and driving business transformation, Veronica is dedicated to empowering organisations through strategic managed services and cutting-edge AI solutions.
Tell us about your background – what journey did you take to arrive at where you are?
After graduating from DCU with an Honours Degree in Computer Applications, I started my career in 1995 at a pioneering Irish CRM SaaS company — well ahead of its time. I was sent to Australia to work with IBM on a pan-ASEAN rollout and ended up staying for several years.
“In a class where only eight out of 120 girls pursued Physics at Leaving Cert level, Mrs Kelly’s encouragement instilled in me the confidence to embrace challenges and excel in the tech world”
During that period, I helped establish a local branch of the Irish Software company, led consulting engagements with major clients like Commonwealth Bank and Woolworths, and built a dedicated team. Later, I joined Fujitsu and spent 23 years in various leadership roles, including Head of Business Consulting and Director of Sales & Marketing. I joined EY Ireland as Head of Managed Services, drawn by the culture, values, and the opportunity to drive meaningful change (and work with talented people).
Why are you doing what you are doing? What need are you meeting? What’s your USP?
I lead teams that transform and manage our clients’ IT applications and infrastructure, freeing them to focus on strategic growth and providing a robust, innovative and scalable platform.
“Trust yourself. Make the best decisions you can with the information at hand, rely on your team’s insights, act decisively, and always take time to reflect and learn from your experiences”
Our unique strength is our ability to blend deep consulting expertise with innovative technology — and change management, delivering high-impact, forward-thinking solutions. At EY we call our consulting delivery model “Transformation Realised” and we put the people at the centre of the change while providing technology at scale.
What are your key skills and qualities that set you apart?
I’m known for delivering on promises with transparency and no surprises. As an agile and adaptable leader, I combine strategic insight with a hands-on approach, ensuring both my team and our clients enjoy the journey as we drive excellent business results.
What (or whom) has helped you most along the way? Who was your
greatest mentor or inspiration?
My Physics teacher in Our Lady’s School, Templeogue, Mrs Kelly, was a significant influence. She exuded confidence and for a while I wanted to be a teacher. In a class where only eight out of 120 girls pursued Physics at Leaving Cert level, her encouragement instilled in me the confidence to embrace challenges and excel in the tech world.
What’s the greatest piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
Trust yourself. Make the best decisions you can with the information at hand, rely on your team’s insights, act decisively, and always take time to reflect and learn from your experiences.
What qualities or events mark the difference between success and
failure in life or business?
Support and encouragement at every level are vital. I derive immense satisfaction from helping clients succeed on challenging projects, and I believe that cultivating a growth mindset is essential for overcoming obstacles and sustaining long-term success.
“We’re witnessing another cycle of creative disruption with AI at the forefront. However, the true value lies in converting data and AI capabilities into actionable insights”
I thrive in a teaming environment so it’s fantastic that EY embraces collaboration as a core value.
What’s been the most challenging aspect of starting or growing the business? What are your growth plans?
Building a business within a globally respected brand like EY means maintaining exceptionally high standards. While this is a challenge, it also offers a strong foundation. My objective is to double our Managed Services business line within the next year.
What technologies or tools do you personally use to stay on track?
I regularly utilise AI tools, including EY’s proprietary platform, EY.AI, along with advanced presentation software. I continuously learn from industry experts and external partners, and I draw inspiration from my role as an EMBA tutor at Trinity College Business School.
Where do you see technology heading — and how will it affect business and your work specifically?
We’re witnessing another cycle of creative disruption with AI at the forefront. However, the true value lies in converting data and AI capabilities into actionable insights. Ultimately, smart decisions will always require a balance between technological innovation and human experience.
Finally, if you had advice for your 21-year-old self, knowing what
you know now, what would it be?
Chill out — you’re on the right path. Embrace the journey and know that choosing a career in tech was absolutely the right decision.
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