Fiona Byrne, Lead Partner, Cork

Fiona grew up in Mallow, County Cork, alongside her brother Jamie and sister Maeve. Reflecting on her upbringing, Fiona shares, “Our dad, James, was an accountant who successfully ran James Byrne & Co for over 45 years. Both he and the practice were the biggest influences in my life growing up. From a young age, I knew I’d one day work with him. Like every family business, we all did our stints in the office – whether as summer jobs or simply helping out. Our mother, Kay, not only managed the administrative side but was the rock at the centre of our family.”

Fiona's school years were a balance of academic and athletic pursuits. “I loved maths, science, and business, but I found English and languages a challenge. I was really fortunate to attend St Mary’s in Mallow, where education was given the highest priority,” she says. Her passion for athletics led her to join Abbey Striders AC, where she competed regionally and nationally as a sprinter and hurdler. This athletic focus influenced her decision to attend the University of Limerick (UL), where she studied Law and Accounting.

Her early career journey began with a training contract at Arthur Andersen, which transitioned to KPMG, where she worked in the audit team for over seven years. “I met fantastic colleagues and mentors during those years, which shaped my thinking about workplace culture and its influence on building a successful practice. When I joined James Byrne & Co, I implemented measures to foster a safe, positive, and high-achieving environment,” she notes.

“As mentioned, having a dad who ran his own practice meant he was always going to be a major influence on me. Beyond that, I’ve been shaped by many other people – colleagues, friends, and family. Each relationship has offered unique perspectives, as everyone brings their own strengths and personality to the table.”

Now, as Lead Partner for Forvis Mazars in Cork, Fiona reflects on an exciting period of growth. “It’s been a whirlwind six months since the merger, with each day bringing new opportunities as we build the Cork team and make an impact. I am so proud to lead the Cork team. I firmly believe that workplace culture is all about the people, and I’m fortunate to have a fantastic leadership team in Cork.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Fiona is eager to reflect on the team’s progress and focus on future goals. “The most rewarding part of my work is achieving meaningful results for clients – delivering outcomes that provide material benefits and lasting impact.”

Beyond work, Fiona’s other passion in life lies with her family. She and her husband, John, have two children, Hannah (10) and Seanie (8). Fiona and John met at UL and have shared a journey through early careers, moves from Dublin to Cork and parenting. John, now Global Director of R&D Communications at Novartis, is a seasoned business traveller and supports Fiona’s increased travel in her new role. 

An active member of her community, Fiona enjoys running with Mallow AC and is involved with Mallow GAA as a camogie coach and officer. “Our family is deeply involved in the GAA with the kids playing and John coaching the senior footballers. I also play a role with the Cork Society of Chartered Accountants and really enjoy meeting colleagues and peers throughout the year at the various events.”