Meet the 40 Under 40 Accountants Crushing the Game and Redefining Wealth Before 30—Are You Ready to Learn Their Secrets?
Ever wonder what it takes to not just survive, but seriously thrive in today’s accountancy game? Well, dmg media Ireland just handed us a crystal-clear snapshot with their 40 Under 40 series — showcasing a handpicked crew of sharp, young professionals who are shaking up the industry in ways that might just surprise you. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill number crunchers; we’re talking about game changers like Lia Sweeney, who’s blending traditional audit expertise with cutting-edge ESG and sustainability strategies. Or Paulina Borawska, whose savvy and steady leadership with clients and teams makes her a linchpin at Dains Ireland. And don’t miss Jenny Holohan, who’s proving that outsourcing isn’t just a back-office task but a strategic powerhouse, especially as AI starts to play a bigger role. It’s a whole new frontier, packed with challenges, innovative thinking, and yes, some serious hustle — proving once again that the future belongs to those ready to pivot and lead with a fresh mindset. Intrigued? Dive into their stories, and maybe you’ll find a nugget or two that sparks your own next move.
dmg media Ireland has selected 40 brilliant young minds in the accountancy industry as part of the 40 Under 40 series
Lia Sweeney – audit manager, Baker Tilly Ireland
Lia Sweeney has been with Baker Tilly for over right years, working with a wide range of clients across different industries, giving her a solid foundation in audit.
She’s enjoyed the challenge of understanding each business, building strong relationships, and helping deliver work that’s both high-quality and meaningful.
More recently, Sweeney has been expanding into the ESG space, with a focus on CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) engagements.
It’s an exciting shift—not just for her personally, but for the profession as a whole—as clients respond to new sustainability reporting requirements and think more strategically about their impact.
Alongside her audit and ESG work, Sweeney is also part of the business development team, helping to identify new opportunities and strengthen our presence in the market.
Sweeney finds it rewarding to contribute to the firm’s growth while staying connected to the needs and goals of our clients.
She is a big believer in creating a supportive team environment by encouraging open communication, asking questions, and creating a collaborative environment where everyone can learn and grow.
- Hobbies I enjoy going to the gym, walking my dog, reading crime thrillers, and spending time with friends and family.
- Best piece of advice you’ve ever received Focus on what you can control.
- Why you love your job I enjoy the constant learning as every client, industry and engagement presents a unique challenge.
- Motto for life “Never forget the footsteps you once took.”
Paulina Borawska – senior audit manager, Dains Ireland
Paulina Borawska joined Dains Ireland in June 2016 as a trainee and qualified as a Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA) in 2019.
She later completed her Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification in 2021. With nearly ten years’ experience, she has built a broad technical foundation in statutory and group audits, as well as financial reporting across a wide range of industries.
Over the past four years, Borawska has held the role of audit manager and was recently promoted to senior audit manager.
She now leads a large portfolio of clients, managing a diverse mix of businesses while also playing an active role in the mentoring and development of junior team members.
Known for her calm, pragmatic approach and strong client relationships, Borawska brings focus, clarity and a solutions-driven mindset to every engagement.
- Hobbies I love travelling and exploring different cultures, especially when it comes to food. I’m a big foodie and always up for trying something new. I also enjoy hiking; being out in nature helps me clear my mind and recharge.
- Best piece of advice you’ve ever received “It doesn’t matter that a mistake was made—what matters is how we fix it together as a team.” It’s shaped the way I work and lead: with honesty, openness and collaboration.
- Why you love your job The variety keeps me engaged, no two days are the same. I enjoy working with different clients, facing new challenges and contributing to the growth and development of our team.
- Motto for life “Nothing worth having is easy.”
Jenny Holohan – director of outsourcing, HLB Ireland
A Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland, Jenny Holohan has over a decade of experience within HLB Ireland’s audit and outsourcing department.
Beginning her career in 2011 at Conlan, Crotty & Murray, she trained, qualified, and remained through the firm’s merger into HLB.
Initially focused on audit, Holohan’s commitment and exceptional work within the firm saw her leading and establishing the outsourcing department in 2020.
As the division grew, so did her team, and she now heads up a strong group of four as director of outsourcing, demonstrating exceptional talent in leadership, scaling and managing client relationships and operations.
Holohan’s approach is rooted in consistency, seeing excellence as a habit rather than an act. Her leadership style fosters a culture where thoughtful planning, reliable processes, and consistent growth deliver success.
Holohan enjoys integrating new technology and the opportunity that AI brings to outsourcing in assisting clients with key information, provided quickly and accurately.
- Hobbies Climbing the Sugarloaf and getting outside with my kids, knitting (when I have the time), the gym and reading.
- Best piece of advice you’ve ever received The harder you work, the luckier you get.
- Why you love your job One of the most rewarding parts of the role is the regular client contact, this allows her to grow strong, lasting relationships with clients. There’s also a huge variety in the type of work, so every day feels different.
- Motto for life Don’t live to work, work to live.”
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