60 Seconds with Bronagh Mullan

Thursday 6 August 2026

Tell us about your role and your organisation

I founded my Pilates business, Powered by Pilates, in 2025 after more than 30 years working in Human Resources. I particularly enjoy teaching children and teenagers, especially those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), as well as adult clients. Having managed my own mental health challenges throughout much of my adult life, Pilates has been an important part of my wellbeing toolkit. I bring passion, energy and a lifetime of experience to every session, helping people improve both their physical and mental wellbeing.

Give us a brief overview of your career journey so far

I hold a postgraduate qualification in Human Resources and have worked in a variety of HR roles for over 30 years. At different points in my career, poor health and caring responsibilities led me to reassess my work-life balance, and I found the pressures of HR increasingly restrictive and stressful.

I discovered Pilates by chance and was immediately struck by how much better I felt, both during and after each class. The combination of movement, breathing and focus allows the mind to settle and stay present. Becoming an instructor has been a natural and rewarding next step, and teaching brings me immense joy.

What is one skill that helps you most in your role and why?

My greatest strength comes from a combination of age, life experience, caring for others and my lived experience of managing a mental health condition. These experiences help me connect with people, understand their challenges and create a supportive, inclusive environment.

What advice do you have for women in your industry?

"With movement comes power."

Taking personal responsibility for our wellbeing is so important. In a world that often focuses on material success, trends and external validation, returning to the basics of good nutrition, breathwork, mindfulness and movement can bring the greatest sense of joy, fulfilment and balance.

Are there any exciting plans in the year ahead in your organisation that you can share with us?

My focus for the year ahead is on continuing to grow and establish a sustainable Pilates business, while expanding opportunities to support children, young people and adults through movement and wellbeing.

Who has been your biggest career inspiration and why?

To be honest, I can't point to just one career inspiration. However, my late Uncle Pete has had the greatest impact on my life. He had Down syndrome and was my best friend growing up. Later, he lived with me until his health deteriorated, and sadly he passed away over two years ago.

On the second anniversary of his death, I received a call from a local Down Syndrome Association asking if I could deliver Pilates sessions for children and young people with Down syndrome. I truly believe Uncle Pete was guiding me that day. I've been delivering these sessions ever since, and the motivation, energy and joy they bring me is beyond measure.

So, if I had to name my greatest inspiration, it would be Uncle Pete.

What's the best way for our members to connect with you?

Email: bmullan70@gmail.com

Describe how your membership with Women in Business has helped you in your career

I have followed Women in Business for many years and have attended a number of events. I've learned a great deal from the topics, resources and insights shared through the network. Now that I have a more flexible schedule, I look forward to becoming even more involved, attending more events and continuing to learn from and connect with other women in business.

Thursday 6 August 2026