Finola graduated from University College Dublin in 1997 with a degree in veterinary medicine. She spent the following 11 years working in various mixed practices in Ireland, UK and New Zealand, and during this time developed a keen interest in the dairy industry. Working with large dairy herds in New Zealand provided an invaluable insight into some of the challenges associated with herd expansion and disease control. While working in practice she undertook a Masters in Science in Livestock Health and Production through the University of London, which she completed in 2006.

Finola joined the Teagasc research team in Moorepark in 2008, as the mastitis research officer.  She Co-ordinated and managed a pilot study evaluating a team-based approach to mastitis control, as well as collaborating on other research projects.  She has a keen interest and experience in international models of mastitis control.  While working for Teagasc she commenced working as Programme Manager for CellCheck and  jointed the AHI staff in May 2013 to continue working in that role.

Finola was awarded a 2014 Nuffield Scholarship, to explore the topic of building strong professional teams and networks among rural service providers.