- What was your first job?
Between the ages of 12 – 16 I had three paper rounds, delivering the Irish News, Belfast Telegraph and Andersonstown News around Finaghy. My first proper job, which earned me £2.52 an hour and double time on Sundays, was a check-out assistant at Curley’s Supermarket in the Kennedy Centre.
- What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work. I’m not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get stuck in. My mother and father worked tremendously hard and have been brilliant role models for me and my siblings. I’m also relentless, but I believe that’s because I’m so passionate about the work we’re doing at NOW Group. I won’t stop until NOW Group is the biggest service provider for people with learning disabilities, neuro-diverse conditions and intellectual disabilities across the island of Ireland.
- How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I’m a loyal, hard working family man who enjoys having fun along the way.
- Who do you look up to in business?
I don’t have to look far as I’m extremely lucky to work alongside one of the best CEOs in the country, Maeve Monaghan. I also have a business coach, Dr Des Rice, whose advice and guidance has had a profound impact on me, both professionally and personally. I would recommend mentorship to anyone in a management or leadership position.
- How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
Leading by example and showing how passionate I am about how our work can change people’s lives. I am firm and have high standards, but NOW Group is a sector leader due to the collective efforts of our team. Our people are without a doubt our greatest asset, so I try to ensure they feel valued, respected and their ideas and opinions are heard.
- If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
Many third sector organisations rely on government funding, which is challenging in our uncertain political landscape. Social value is often overlooked, so I would urge government departments to engage more with social enterprises like NOW Group who deliver real impact in society, and consider offering more sustainable funding or long-term budgets.
- What was the last book you read?
I enjoy a good autobiography and recently finished Carl Frampton’s book – a great read.
- What car do you drive?
Range Rover.
- Tell us something interesting about yourself.
In 2003 I was granted a place at the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State on a soccer scholarship. After as short stint, I decided it wasn’t for me and moved to Providence Rhode Island where I played semi-professional football for three years. When I moved back home, I went to University of Central Lancashire and graduated with a degree in Sports and Business Management.
- What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
I love sport and believe it plays an important role in a healthy, happy and sociable life. Playing, watching and listening to sport, or attending matches at Solitude, is usually what you’ll find me doing. I’m a lifelong Cliftonville fan and am incredibly proud to watch my son playing for the 2019 side.
