Louise Doyle's path to becoming co-founder and CEO of Needi demonstrates how determination to solve real problems can lead to innovative tech solutions. Coming from a people-first sales background, Louise and her co-founder Steph created needi after struggling to find meaningful gifts for their remote team. What started as a personal frustration has evolved into a corporate gifting platform that uses AI and psychology to connect businesses with sustainable products from local, independent brands.
She recently shared her insights with Sync NI about building a purpose-driven tech company, the importance of authentic mentorship, and why the industry thrives when it welcomes voices from all backgrounds.
Have you always had an interest in technology, and was there a specific person or particular event that led you into your current role
Not at all! I come from a people-first sales background. My co-founder Steph and I started needi after struggling to find meaningful gifts for our remote team. We knew tech was the way we could scale our thoughtful business proposition, and we haven’t looked back since then.
What would you consider to be the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of your job?
Seeing how we’ve helped local independent businesses thrive, some have taken on staff or opened new premises thanks to needi orders. That’s the dream! And I LOVE the meaningful connections, like when clients who used to get complaints now get thank-you notes for their gifts. That shift means everything.
In terms of career development, how important is it to build a professional network and attend industry events?
It’s vital. The people you meet can open unexpected doors, spark new ideas, or help you through tough times. You never know which conversation could shape your next move.
How much impact can a mentor have on your personal development?
It’s huge. The best mentors don’t sugarcoat things, they tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. They help you dodge pitfalls by sharing what they learned the hard way and get to the point quickly with advice based onreal experience.
What guidance would you offer to any young person on why they should consider a career in technology?
You don’t need to be the smartest or most experienced, just passionate about solving a problem. Tech is the key to unlocking that impact. If you care deeply, stay curious, and keep learning, this industry can take you anywhere.
What advice would you give to women considering a career change or return to work but are daunted by the prospect of working in what can be perceived as a male-dominated industry?
Focus on what you care deeply about, the problem you want to solve or the change you want to make – and let that guide your next move. Don’t be put off by labels like “male-dominated”. Every industry needs diverse voices and fresh perspectives. Build your confidence by upskilling, finding mentors, and surrounding yourself with supportive allies. Share your ideas widely, be open to learning, and remember: your passion, paired with persistence, is one of the most powerful tools you have.
For those who may not come from a STEM background, what other career opportunities exist within the tech sector beyond software engineering?
Tech just doesn’t come down to coding - it’s about combining human insight and empathy with innovation. From strategy and product to ops, UX, marketing, partnerships and more, there are so many impactful ways to shape the future of tech without needing a STEM degree.
Sync NI's Summer 2025 magazine celebrates women in tech across Ireland as we continue to encourage more women to enter the thriving sector and address the current gender imbalance. Read the Summer 2025 Sync NI Magazine online for free here.
