About Clair Daly

Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable is a concept many shy away from. For Clair Daly, it’s a mindset she returns to regularly. The executive MBA graduate first heard the phrase while studying at UCD Smurfit School and it has stayed with her since.

“The course taught me to back myself,” says Clair. “At one point, I was sitting at home prepping for an accountancy exam questioning why I was putting myself through this, but I pushed through and the return has been significant. It has enabled me to engage deeper in conversations that I would have shied away from in the past.

Having worked in multiple sectors, Clair is the Senior Director for People with the super supplement brand AG1, where she sits on the International Leadership Team for Europe, Australia, Singapore and China. 

A love of learning

Clair’s penchant for lifelong learning first drew her to the MBA during the Covid-19 pandemic. “I like to undertake a new course every two years," she says  “I love to learn and an MBA has always been something I wanted to pursue. I worked with a female founder in a consultancy firm who had an MBA, and it struck a chord with me, as she was so knowledgeable in all areas of business.”

Looking back, Clair recalls the camaraderie among classmates as both inspiring and motivating. “Although initially it was online, we connected immediately, and made lifelong friends,” she says. “Each person brought a unique dynamic and approach to projects. This experience teaches you a great deal about yourself and others”.

On the right path

As well as connecting her to a new circle of friends, the MBA also helped Clair realise she was on the right career path and that HR will always be in her DNA. “The course cemented how much I love what I do,” she says. “It’s shown me what I bring to my role and has given me more confidence to challenge and question everyday situations.”

Shortly after completing the MBA in 2022, Clair says the stars aligned when she was headhunted for her role with AG1. “I met the recruiter, followed by the Chief People Officer, Rosalind Chevreuil, and was in awe of the talented people in AG1. As it turns out, ‘Amazing Humans’ is one of our core values.”

Founded in 2010, AG1 is a daily, greens-based nutrition powder designed to support overall health. For Clair, the company’s values genuinely resonate with her. “Everyone is a team member, not an employee. That brings a different kind of energy because we feel we’re all in it together.”

Since joining AG1, no two days have been the same, according to Clair. From working on strategy to ensuring the right people are in place, she thrives on the diversity and broad scope of her role. “In the morning, I might be on a call with our international leadership team to review financial targets and discuss the most pressing needs of the business, later in the day, I could be planning projects for the next quarter.”

The power of positive influences

Among those who have shaped her career along the way, Clair fondly remembers some lecturers at UCD Smurfit who left lasting impressions. They include assistant professor Ashley Hughes, who taught her how to manage imposter syndrome.

“Ashley was phenomenal,” says Clair. “She helped me realise we all walk around with our own insecurities, but if you can quieten that inner voice, you become a lot more capable and able.”

Family and supportive colleagues have also played a big role throughout Clair’s career. Her husband Ray was hugely supportive during her studies, while her uncle Martin Wallace has always been like a big brother to her.

“I’m also very fortunate to have mentors who have become dear friends, such as Sonia Flynn and Mary Purcell, as well as former colleagues, Dave Thomas and Zita Vance. They have challenged me, coached me and pushed me further.”

Panel

What is your leadership style?

It changes, but I’d describe it as adaptive and situational. Sometimes I need to be quite direct, take the lead and bring the team along with me.

What advice do you have for anyone taking on a leadership role?

Self-awareness is key. I did a coaching diploma 20 years ago, and it taught me how to be more self-aware. It’s about understanding who you are and how you show up. Secondly, surround yourself with good people who challenge you, and find a mentor or sponsor who will advocate for you.

Is there anything else you’d like to achieve in your career down the line?

In the future, I’d love to get involved in board work. My experience working closely with CEOs and executive teams coupled with my MBA, has deepened my understanding of how businesses operate and create value. This allows me to connect people strategy with commercial performance.

I’m interested in organisations that value strong, practical governance around talent. I ask straightforward, people-focused questions around leadership, structure and capability. The answers show what’s working, and where the risks or opportunities lie.

What are your interests outside of work?

Walking, sea swimming and playing the concert flute. I play at Mass every Sunday. 

What keeps you awake at night?

My children and hormones.

December 2025