IN THE SPOTLIGHT
this week is Megan Hamill, training manager at Proparamedics, Northern Ireland’s leading independent ambulance service provider.
What was your first job?
When I was about 14-years-old, I got a job as a waitress in Le Winters restaurant in the Strangford Arms. Although the job taught me many skills I still use today, it wasn’t really for me, but it was always a major plus when the chef made your dinner!
What qualifications do you have?
I have an LLB bachelors degree in law from Queen’s University, Belfast. I also have a level 5 business management qualification as well as some equestrian related qualifications such as my Pony Club AH and BHS PTT, which is required to be an instructor, as well as a few other equestrian related qualifications.
What do you attribute your success to?
My family has always been a source of great encouragement and support. At Proparamedics, I currently work alongside my mum Heather, and her determination, desire to achieve goals and hard work ethic, has definitely had a strong influence on my success.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
Stubborn, independent, determined, committed and an animal lover.
Who do you look up to in business?
Definitely my mum Heather. She has put blood, sweat and tears into her business, which has been her passion. I have been lucky enough to see first-hand that her biggest passion in the business is the people and employees within it, providing jobs for people in Northern Ireland, supporting families and providing a worthwhile service to the community. She has never been scared to take risks or to make mistakes, which is so important in the world of business.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I’m a big believer in working with people’s strengths. I like to allow people the freedom to do what they do best whilst supporting them along the way.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
I really enjoy being part of a business community that is so supportive of one another but in terms of our own sector, it’s probably a lesser-known fact that there is currently no regulation in place for private ambulance companies. I really think this needs to change.
What website or app could you not do without?
WhatsApp.
What was the last book you read?
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult.
What car do you drive?
I drive a 2011 white Audi A3 convertible as well as a 2014 110 Pick Up Land Rover Defender, which I use to tow my horse box.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I can ride side saddle. I have eaten cockroaches as a meal (don’t ask) and have visited all the continents of the world apart from Antarctica.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Horses! I have ridden horses since I could sit up and they have always been a huge part of my life.
