Aileen Kennedy, a proud daughter of Boyle, County Roscommon, is making a name for herself in the world of finance while keeping her Irish roots close too her heart. Since relocating to New York City in 2018, she’s become a key player at Options Technology, managing trading operations for one of their biggest US clients. Her dedication and leadership have earned her a coveted spot among the finalists for the prestigious 18th annual Irish Top 40 Under 40 Awards.
Aileen’s path to success began with a passion for learning. After graduating with a degree in English and History from maynooth University, she deepened her knowledge by pursuing a Master’s in Irish Studies at Queen’s university Belfast, focusing on Irish history. This grounding in history and culture clearly shapes her perspective and approach to her professional life.
For the past eight years, Aileen has been an essential part of Options Technology’s trading Infrastructure team, excelling as a Director. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond her work. Aileen is a strong advocate for both personal and professional growth,actively involving herself in various organizations. she’s a member of the Manhattan Gaels and O’Donovan Rossa GAA teams and the O’Donnell School of Irish dancing. In fact, she even reached the world championships in 2019, demonstrating her unwavering determination and competitive spirit.
Giving back to her community is important to Aileen. She actively participates in corporate social initiatives and supports Irish American charities. She’s also a passionate mentor, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of talented professionals within her trading infrastructure team.
When she’s not making strides in her dynamic career, Aileen enjoys exploring the cultural richness of New York City. She’s a passionate art lover and frequently visits Manhattan’s numerous galleries. she also finds joy in getting lost in a good book.
Aileen’s extraordinary blend of professional achievement, dedication to her Irish heritage, and passion for personal growth makes her truly remarkable. The Irish Top 40 Under 40 Awards, a highly anticipated event celebrating the achievements of Irish and Irish Americans aged 40 and under, provides a fitting platform to recognize inspiring individuals like Aileen.
“Voting opens today for the 2025 Irish Echo People’s Choice Award and you can vote multiple times,”
Aileen Kennedy, a rising star in the world of finance and proud representative of her Irish heritage, is making waves in New York City. Recently named a finalist for the prestigious Irish Top 40 under 40 Award, Kennedy’s journey embodies the spirit of ambition, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Hailing from Boyle, Ireland, Kennedy’s passion for finance began at a young age. “Growing up in boyle, I was always fascinated by numbers and problem-solving,” she recalls. “I remember winning a math competition in secondary school,and that sealed the deal for me. I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I could use my analytical skills and help drive tangible results. Finance seemed like the perfect fit.”
Since relocating to New York City, Kennedy has made a name for herself, consistently delivering exceptional results. She takes particular pride in a risk management system she developed for a major investment firm.“It was a complex task, involving cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of financial markets,” she explains. “But it was also incredibly rewarding. The system not only helped mitigate risks but also saved the firm meaningful resources in the long run.”
Beyond her impressive professional accomplishments, Kennedy is known for her unique research skills. Her dissertation, a testament to her intellectual curiosity, explored the evolution of societal norms and values through the lens of agony aunt columns. “It was quite an unconventional dissertation topic, but it was also deeply personal,” she explains. “I was interested in how people’s advice and societal norms have evolved over time. The agony aunt columns provided a engaging window into that,showing how our societal values and attitudes have shifted.”
As a role model for aspiring irish professionals, Kennedy offers sage advice: “Never underestimate the power of hard work and continuous learning. Also, don’t be afraid to embrace failure as a prospect for growth. And most importantly, always hold onto your roots. My Irish heritage has been a constant source of inspiration and strength.”
Kennedy’s dedication to her craft, combined with her unwavering belief in the power of hard work and her Irish roots, makes her a true inspiration. It is no surprise that she has been recognized as one of ireland’s most promising talents.
Aileen Kennedy’s story exemplifies the transformative power of dedication, intelligence, and unwavering self-belief. Her journey serves as an inspiration,demonstrating that remarkable achievements are attainable when passion fuels perseverance.
Her commitment to excellence shines brightly, leaving an undeniable mark on her chosen field. As Aileen continues to ascend, one thing remains clear: her dedication to her craft promises continued triumphs, solidifying Ireland’s reputation for nurturing exceptional talent.
How does Aileen Kennedy balance her demanding career with her strong community involvement and passion for her Irish heritage?
Archyde Interview: Aileen Kennedy – Unwavering Ambition, Undying Heritage
Archyde: Welcome to Archyde, Aileen! We’re thrilled to have you with us today.You’ve been making waves in the corporate world and within the Irish community in New York. Tell us a little about yourself and your journey.
Aileen kennedy: Thank you for having me. I’m Aileen Kennedy, born and raised in Boyle, County Roscommon. I fell in love with learning at a young age, which led me to pursue a degree in English and History at maynooth University, followed by a Master’s in Irish Studies at Queen’s University belfast. My passion for history and culture has truly shaped my viewpoint and approach to life, both personally and professionally.
Archyde: After your studies, you moved to New York in 2018 and joined Options Technology.Tell us about your role and what you enjoy most about it.
Aileen: I’m currently serving as a Director in Options Technology’s trading infrastructure team, managing trading operations for one of their biggest US clients. What I enjoy most about my role is the combination of strategic thinking and execution it requires.I’m constantly learning and challenging myself to improve, both for myself and my team.
Archyde: Your dedication and leadership have earned you a place among the finalists for the prestigious Irish Top 40 Under 40 Awards. How does it feel to be recognized in this way?
aileen: It’s truly an honor to be recognized among such distinguished company. I’m proud of my achievements, but I also know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my family, friends, and colleagues. I see this recognition as a reflection of their support as much as my own efforts.
Archyde: You’re not just excelling professionally, but also actively involved in various organizations, such as the Manhattan Gaels and O’Donovan Rossa GAA teams, and the O’Donnell School of Irish dancing. How important is it for you to maintain these connections to your Irish heritage?
Aileen: Maintaining my connection to my Irish heritage is incredibly important to me. Growing up in Boyle, County Roscommon, I was surrounded by a strong sense of community and tradition. I’ve carried that with me to New York, and these organizations have provided me with a marvelous way to stay connected to my roots while also forming new connections within the Irish community here.
Archyde: You’ve also shown a strong commitment to giving back to your community, through corporate social initiatives, Irish American charities, and mentoring within your team. Can you tell us more about your passion for mentoring?
Aileen: Absolutely. I believe that success isn’t just about what you achieve for yourself, but what you help others achieve. My team at options Technology is a diverse and talented group of individuals, and I’m incredibly proud of the mentoring culture we’ve fostered. Seeing them grow and Succeed is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.
Archyde: when you’re not busy with work or community initiatives, what do you like to do in your free time?
Aileen: I’m a bit of a culture vulture. I love exploring the multitude of art galleries in Manhattan and losing myself in a good book. There’s something about immersing oneself in art or a great story that allows you to step back from the day-to-day and gain a new perspective.
Archyde: Aileen, you’re not just making waves here in New York, but also back in Ireland. How do you hope to inspire young people, especially those from your home county of Roscommon, looking to follow in your footsteps?
Aileen: I would tell them to never underestimate the power of hard work, determination, and a strong sense of self. What I’ve learned in my journey is that success isn’t about a specific destination, but about the drive, resilience, and relentless curiosity that gets you there.and always remember, no matter where your journey takes you, it’s critically important to carry your roots with pride.
Archyde: Wise words indeed. Aileen, thank you so much for joining us today. It’s been an absolute pleasure.
Aileen: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to share my story.
