Majella Mungovan

Can you tell us about your role as VP of Global Financial Operations at Meta and the scale of your responsibilities?

My role involves leading the finance team responsible for managing Meta’s vast global revenue and expenditure. We process more than $160 billion in revenue and over $70 billion in expenditure. It’s a massive operation, and the challenge is to ensure it runs smoothly, efficiently, and securely. I oversee a global team based out of Meta’s international HQ in Dublin, with team members spanning locations like Singapore, India, Tokyo, and the US. Our team is incredibly diverse, with between 50 and 60 different nationalities. This diversity is crucial as it brings varied perspectives and innovative solutions to the table.

How does innovation and technology play a role in your team’s operations?

Innovation and technology are at the heart of everything we do. Over the past six years, we’ve adopted machine learning and AI, and recently, we’ve begun using GenAI to scale even faster. We’re also working on developing Agentic AI Agents. The rapid growth at Meta requires us to not only work harder but to work smarter, embracing AI and automation to stay ahead of the curve and continue to drive efficiency in our operations.

You joined Meta after spending significant time at Microsoft. How did your transition from Microsoft to Meta shape your career?

Leaving Microsoft for Meta was a bold decision at the time. Meta had this startup energy, and I found it exhilarating. The experience of setting up EMEA finance almost from scratch was both challenging and rewarding. What works in one place doesn’t always work in another, and Meta’s fast-paced, cutting-edge environment has been a great place to grow. The revenue growth has been staggering—from $7 billion when I joined to $160 billion today—and embracing new technologies like AI in finance has been crucial to staying ahead of the demands.

How has your membership with IoD Ireland supported you in your role, particularly in navigating regulatory responsibilities?

IoD Ireland has been a huge help, especially with its programmes on regulatory changes. Given the regulatory environment we operate in—covering privacy, security, GDPR, and online safety—staying on top of evolving requirements is crucial. IoD Ireland has provided valuable insights into these areas and connected me with leaders from various industries, which has been invaluable in shaping my approach to governance and leadership.

What has been the most impactful aspect of your IoD Ireland membership?

The opportunity to network with senior leaders and exchange insights has been the most impactful. Through IoD Ireland, I’ve met people facing similar challenges and gained fresh perspectives. For example, attending an IoD AI event helped me refine how I communicate complex topics to diverse audiences, an essential skill in my role. The connections and learnings from IoD events have had a direct impact on how I approach problems and communicate within Meta.

What advice would you offer to new or aspiring directors in Ireland, and how has IoD Ireland contributed to your personal development?

I highly recommend IoD Ireland for anyone looking to develop their skills in leadership and governance. The Institute offers opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, which is crucial for anyone in a senior role. Personally, I plan to take the IoD Chartered Director programme when I have the time—it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn alongside other senior leaders. For aspiring directors, my advice would be to step out of your comfort zone, embrace diverse perspectives, and always be open to learning.