In the spotlight this week is Dónal Traynor, the chief executive of Community Finance Ireland, formerly known as Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT), the fastest-growing social finance provider in Ireland and the UK.
To take part in the High Flyers Q&A, get in touch via business@irishnews.com.
What was your first job?
I was employed as a project manager on the redevelopment of a disused railway station in Belturbet, Co Cavan, established as a social enterprise in 1998. At a cost of £1.4m, it was a steep learning curve into the area of grant funding across the border region.
What qualifications do you have?
BA (economics and geography) from University College Dublin; Grad Dip in tourism and business studies from University of Limerick; MBS in co-operative and social enterprise from University College Cork; and professional diploma in financial advice from the Institute of Bankers in Ireland.
What do you attribute your success to?
A rural upbringing where the sense of community and teamwork was paramount, a family background in community development work and its impact on society, insightful mentors who were willing to offer constructive criticism, and the ability to heed same. Then of course there is the Universe and acknowledging that there is good reason behind every success and failure.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
Common sense type with a positive work ethic and hands on approach, enjoys interacting with people and seeing tangible results, sooner rather than later.
Who do you look up to in business?
JP Mc Manus. Successful with a passion for sport, and equally keen to leave a societal legacy across as many areas of need as possible. We have seen a number of community projects co-funded by his foundation.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I continuously reach outside my comfort zone and lead by example, acknowledge effort by others at every opportunity and reward meaningful output. Outlining the path forward in clear concise steps means everyone can measure success for what it is.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
Exchange rate fluctuations are always likely be an unwelcome uncontrollable when operating on a multi-jurisdiction basis.
What website or app could you not do without?
Microsoft Office 365 and SharePoint, I’m not sure how we worked before it!
What was the last book you read?
The Tattooist of Auschwitz.
What car do you drive?
Renault Kadjar.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I’m the first group CEO for Community Finance Ireland in 25 years to come from a non-banking background, and by way of internal promotion within the group.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Keeping fit. When the body called time on engaging in competitive sport, I took up “non-contact?” GAA with a local over 40’s group, tag rugby, 5km runs, and HIIT sessions. As good for the mind, as it is for the body.
