Karen Dessain-Gelinet became Chief Executive of the Camogie Association in February 2026, bringing extensive international business leadership experience to one of the most important periods in the sport’s history.
With more than 15 years in the technology sector, most recently as Director of Customer Support at HubSpot, she has particular expertise in organisational transformation, team development, and managing complex change.
Her sporting credentials are equally impressive. A former Meath intercounty player, she won nine senior county titles with Kilmessan, a Leinster club championship and an All-Ireland Junior Championship with Meath in 2008.
She now leads the Camogie Association at a critical point in the proposed integration of Gaelic games, where protecting camogie’s identity and development must be balanced with the opportunities of a unified structure.
Her commercial experience, sporting achievement, and strategic leadership make her an important new voice in Irish sport.
She is the first of the 20 new entries we challenge ourselves to introduce to this list each year.
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Previously named: Dr Una May, Suzanne Eade
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This is the 14th year we have listed 50 Women of Influence in Irish Sport. We will add new names daily from now until early December.
We have an open nomination process, and you can nominate potential additions until our closing date of November 10th, 2026.
Our definition of influence is broad and includes those making a difference in how sport is governed, managed, and brought to life. This year’s list will include CEO’s, leaders, founders, coaches, storytellers and more. To shine a light on those who may not be as familiar, we deliberately exclude those who are still active players in their sport.
We’ll host our Annual Women in Sport Conference at Lidl HQ on Tuesday, December 1st, featuring a range of national and international speakers and a room full of inspiring guests.
To reserve your place, you can book a ticket below.
If you would like to join the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the daily conversation around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
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ABOUT SPORT FOR BUSINESS
Sport for Business is Ireland’s leading platform focused on the commercial, strategic and societal impact of sport. It connects decision-makers across governing bodies, clubs, brands, agencies, and public institutions through high-quality content, events, and insights.
Sport for Business explores how sport drives economic value, participation, inclusion and national identity, and how your story can be part of ours.
Through analysis, storytelling and convening the sector, it helps leaders understand trends, share best practices, and make better-informed decisions. It positions sport not just as entertainment but as a vital contributor to Ireland’s social and economic fabric.
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