Alumni Spotlights
Tara Finn - Head of Business Development, Cork Airport
Tara Finn (BSc 2015) is a graduate of UCC's Biological and Chemical Sciences degree programme and works at Cork Airport. She began her career as a retail assistant at the airport before earning her Commercial Pilot’s License and an MSc in Aviation Management from Portobello Institute. She now leads out on Business Development and Communications for the airport. Her journey through various roles has given her a deep understanding of the aviation industry and has led to a career that Tara has found incredible fulfillment in.
What did you study at UCC?
Biological and Chemical Sciences
How did your degree help you?
My science degree has been highly beneficial in terms of my career in aviation. Key elements of science involve analytics, attention to detail and problem-solving all of which are essential in aviation to maintain high levels of precision and safety. My experience in laboratory work and data analysis taught me to approach things in a methodical manner, interpret technical information and make evidence-based decisions; all of which were key to my flight training. The aviation industry is a fast-paced, continuously evolving industry which is also seen in science labs.
Can you tell us a bit about your career journey – how did you get to where you are today?
My career in aviation started in my third year of college when I started working as a retail assistant in the duty-free area of the airport. This initial role, along with living close to the airport, sparked a deeper interest in the industry which lead me to getting experience in various departments in the airport whilst also pursuing my Commercial Pilot’s License. Over the course of three years, I split my training between Aviator College in Florida and Atlantic Flight Training in Cork, completing the first half in the US and finishing it in Cork.
When Covid happened, my career pivoted due to the pause in pilot recruitment, and I had the opportunity to work directly with the Managing Director at the airport. This opportunity enabled me to gain exposure to all parts of the business and I soon joined the Business Development team. In 2022, I was appointed Head of Business Development and in 2024, my responsibilities expanded to include oversight of the Communications department. This journey has allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of the aviation industry from both operational and strategic perspectives.
What do you like about working in the aviation industry?
I love that in the aviation industry, no two days are ever the same. Every day there is something different – whether it’s launching a new route, responding to operational disruptions, or collaborating across departments to enhance the passenger experience. The constant variety keeps the work engaging, interesting and meaningful. Being part of a sector that connects people, cultures and economies on a global scale is incredibly fulfilling. With the industry set for continued growth and transformation in the coming years, its an exciting time to be involved.
Cork Airport plays such a central role in the region. How do you see it evolving over the next few years?
Cork Airport welcomed 3.1 million passengers in 2024 and is forecasting 3.4 million passengers in 2025. We have recently launched our capital development plan which will see new infrastructure to enable us to cater to 5 million passengers whilst still maintaining the highest safety standards as well as a fast, friendly passenger experience. Projects included in this are the addition of new car parks, a solar farm, two new airbridges, forward gates (to allow for extra capacity) and new aircraft parking areas. We currently have over 50 routes across 9 airlines with our newest airline, SunExpress, joining us for Summer 2025.
Looking back at your time at UCC, are there any memories that have stuck with you?
Some of my favourite memories involve being on campus where there was always a great atmosphere and getting to meet up with friends who went to different secondary schools was always a treat as well as all the new friendships along the way - some of which have become lifelong friends!