Bidvest Noonan Ireland

Ireland's leading provider of facilities services and solutions

Content Manager

From Admin to Operations Manager: The Inspiring Journey of Christina McDonald, a Determined Leader at Bidvest Noonan.

by

Twelve years ago, Christina McDonald embarked on a promising journey with Bidvest Noonan, beginning her career as a Rostering Admin. By September of last year, her commitment and dedication had earned her the position of Operations Manager. In this role, Christina has made a significant impact, particularly in building stronger customer relationships.

Christina’s inspiring rise reflects her determination and tenacity. Committed to continuous growth, she has avoided becoming too comfortable in any role. As soon as she began feeling settled in a position, she viewed it as a cue to strive for more, propelled by her strong ambition.

Recently, we had a chance to briefly chat with Christina about her path to success, her approach to strengthening customer relationships, and the impact of these efforts on her recent performance feedback.

Your ascent within the business is inspiring. What have been the factors in your success?

“Career progression, in my opinion, calls for several essential elements. There are five key principles that have guided me:

  • Work diligently
  • Build experience
  • Show respect and kindness to colleagues
  • Encourage open communication by asking questions
  • Believe in yourself

Out of these, believing in yourself is probably the most important. There were times when my aspirations seemed too high, but the encouragement and backing I received from my superiors and peers strengthened my resolve. They convinced me to challenge my limits and chase my goals relentlessly. The belief that I had the necessary skills and knowledge to take the next step allowed me to maintain focus and persistence, even when immediate success seemed far away.”

In your opinion, what is the most important ingredient for a successful client relationship?

“People form the very core of our service delivery, and these individuals represent our company when interacting with our customers, especially those on-site. Treating your team with respect, providing support, and helping them excel in their roles are key to solid customer relationships. Having ascended through the ranks myself, I can relate to my team’s experiences and challenges. This connection creates mutual respect and understanding.”

You recently received positive feedback from customers for significant improvements made to some of your sites. How was this accomplished?

“Multiple factors contributed to this success, but I believe the main catalyst was my commitment to improving relationships with those customers. Regular meetings and on-site visits proved invaluable in identifying necessary improvements to enhance our service delivery. Should problems arise, my past experiences help me to present effective solutions. A thorough understanding of our processes has also empowered me to address challenges more effectively.”

Safeguarding One of Europe’s Most Iconic Stadiums: Adam Branagan’s Story

by

In the world of security, there’s more than meets the eye. For Adam Branagan, our security manager at Croke Park, each day presents a unique challenge, something he takes in his stride.

A busy day at Croke Park, the third-largest sports stadium in Europe, can see a huge number of security personnel diligently monitoring all areas of the stadium. They work tirelessly, patrolling the premises and ensuring the safety of each individual present. As Adam puts it, “Every day at Croke Park is different.” Whether it’s a football match, concert, or conference, the crowd varies, and so do the challenges. With unexpected situations and potential threats, the task requires constant vigilance, extensive training, and meticulous attention to detail.

It’s not just about being aware, though. Adam explains, “We have a rotational system across our shifts to provide the best security service possible, day and night, covering all areas of the building.” This stringent system ensures that all areas, from the control room to entry points, are consistently monitored. This approach guarantees the safety and well-being of all attendees, offering the best and safest experience possible.

Reflecting on his journey with Bidvest Noonan, Adam can’t help but express his pride. “I take great pride in being a part of this team for the past 15 years,” he says. Starting his career as a security officer and now serving as the security manager, Adam has come a long way. He adds, “I love this job. The diverse range of events and constant interaction with different people keep you on your toes. No two days are ever the same!”

When asked about the key duties of his colleagues, Adam stresses the importance of monitoring entries and exits. “Once members of the public enter through these gates, their well-being rests in our hands,” he shares. The team’s approach to their role is serious and dedicated, always striving to devise effective solutions that ensure everyone is well taken care of.

The job requires more than just discipline and diligence. Dealing with antisocial behaviour, potential threats, and coordination are skills that Adam highlights as vital. Balancing approachability with vigilance when interacting with the public is crucial to ensure a safe yet welcoming atmosphere.

Looking back at his 15-year career, Adam cherishes countless memorable moments at Croke Park. He reminisces about hosting music stars like Garth Brooks and the Spice Girls. The experiences didn’t stop there. “A few years ago, we had the honour of hosting Queen Elizabeth and the Pope, both of whom delivered public addresses,” he adds. These moments have enriched his experience, making Croke Park an unforgettable place to work.

We Have Launched our Brand New Energy Management Service in Response to Soaring Energy Prices.

by

Energy prices have soared in recent years, driving businesses to search for solutions to control their rising costs. In response to this, we have launched a new Energy Management Service. This innovative service is designed to help businesses streamline energy consumption, achieve significant cost savings, and boost sustainability.

“Our new Energy Management service will help customers overcome energy challenges,” says Peter Smyth, our Director of Innovation and Technology. “With high energy prices and continued volatility in the energy market, our mission is to help customers reduce their energy consumption, pay the lowest rates and achieve their sustainability goals.”

The new service simplifies energy management into three key steps:

  1. Contract and Consumption Analysis: Our energy management teams perform an in-depth review of our customers’ existing energy contracts and consumption, pinpointing areas of potential financial improvement.
  2. Supplier Negotiation: Our business then negotiates with energy suppliers, on behalf of our customers, leveraging our position to secure the best price and terms on the market.
  3. Contract Finalisation and Monitoring: Bidvest Noonan’s team handle the transition to the new supplier and continually monitor market trends and manage contract renewals for a seamless, uninterrupted service at the lowest cost.

The energy management service enables our customers to align their energy procurement with their sustainability objectives, sourcing energy from sustainable energy suppliers.

“Bidvest Noonan remains dedicated to helping businesses navigate these challenging times,” adds Peter Smyth. “With our expertise and this innovative solution, we are set to unlock significant cost savings for our customers while contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.”

Additionally, we are offering an energy audit service to identify potential energy-saving projects such as lighting upgrades, solar installations, EV charging solutions, and more, enabling businesses to achieve further environmental and cost efficiencies.

Bidvest Noonan’s Workplace Solutions Managing Director, Mary Kealy added: “Our new energy management service is just another step forward in our ongoing mission to provide added value for our customers. It underscores our dedication to continuously finding new ways to support them and help them achieve success.”

For more information about Bidvest Noonan’s new Energy Management Service, or to schedule a consultation, please visit our dedicated page here.

The Art of Expression: Geda Gudaviciute and her team demonstrate the power of inclusivity

by

At the heart of our everyday operations, Key Account Manager, Geda Gudaviciute (pictured centre), personifies the extraordinary power of inclusion. The unassuming photo of her alongside her colleagues illustrates a sense of unity and mutual respect, embodying a key part of our credo – people first. Yet, beneath this camaraderie and routine, an extraordinary narrative exists.

This story revolves around Caroline (pictured left), a member of Geda’s team, who has lived with a unique challenge from birth – deafness. However, her spirit, determination, and ability to communicate have never been stifled by this obstacle.

Upon Caroline’s appointment to our cleaning team, Geda identified potential within her. She believed that, given the right opportunity, environment, and support, Caroline’s talents could come to light. And that’s exactly the chance Geda provided.

Initial communication between Geda and Caroline depended on written exchanges, but as Caroline grew more at ease, she began employing gestures and expressions to communicate. Observing this, Geda, and the rest of the team, adapted their modes of interaction, demonstrating their acceptance of diverse methods of communication.

Today, the effortless interaction between Geda, Caroline, and the entire team exemplifies the transformative potential of inclusive workplaces. It emphasises the value that diversity brings to organisations and underscores the importance of fostering an environment where everyone, no matter their personal circumstances, feels valued, included, and empowered.

Geda observes, “Caroline’s story underscores the profound impact of our People First philosophy. Her incredible journey inspires me every day, reinforcing our commitment to invest in our people and to continue driving positive change within our organisation.”

At our core, we believe in the strength of diverse voices and experiences. We believe in opening doors, in making space, and in acknowledging the uniqueness of each individual.”

The Day Courage Conquered Flames – Blanchardstown Centre Security Team

by

The afternoon sun shone brightly on Blanchardstown Centre, warming our security officers as they conducted an orderly ballet of vehicles to open spots in the centre’s car park. Families meandered leisurely, their laughter and animated conversations stitching together the soundtrack of a peaceful Sunday. Contentment and tranquillity were in abundance, with no one suspecting the impending disaster that lay ahead.

Then, tranquillity turned to terror. Our observant security officer, scanning the horizon, noticed a column of smoke billowing from the Falcon View apartments nearby. A fire had taken hold in the building and was rapidly spreading, escalating the serene afternoon into a nerve-racking and frightening situation.

But in the midst of chaos, our security team, the unsung heroes of the hour, rose to the occasion. Guided by their stalwart manager, Kevin Barrett, they swiftly transitioned from calm monitoring to rapid response. With a clarity of mind borne from rigorous training, they raced against the fiery spectre towards the apartments, their fear overridden by the urgency of their mission: the safety of the families within.

Kevin, demonstrating the grit and courage instilled in him through relentless training and years of experience, spearheaded the operation. As he arrived he found the fire alarm screaming through the complex, the shrill sound piercing the air. His extensive emergency training then guided him in leading the successful evacuation of the building, steering the residents away from danger and towards safety. This was supported by the security team on the outskirts of the unfolding disaster, coordinating the emergency traffic management procedures and taking the evacuated residents to safe assembly points so they could assess any injuries.

Within moments, the Dublin Fire Brigade arrived at the chaotic scene, taking over from our team to combat the fire, their collective efforts preventing any loss of life.

As the smoke dissipated and the embers dimmed, the swift decision-making of our security team stood in stark relief. Their training enabled them to take control of a terrifying situation, highlighting the crucial role they play in ensuring safety.

Reflecting on the incident, Nick O’Connor remarked, “This team, like many security teams around the globe, are unsung heroes, stepping up in times of crisis to protect others. This is why I am incredibly proud to be part of the security industry.”

“Transforming stumbling blocks into steppingstones” – a journey of exceptional leadership by Michele Hill

by

Meet Michele Hill, one of our industry’s exceptional leaders, and our Contract Manager at Shannon Airport. This short article takes you on a journey through her remarkable management style, her ability to motivate her team, and the impressive trajectory of her career.

Michele has the challenging task of managing and motivating a large team of facilities professionals who work tirelessly to ensure thousands of passengers feel safe and secure every day.  Her winning formula? Clear communication, solid work ethics, constant encouragement, and above all, a generous serving of humility and empathy.


So, how does she keep herself motivated in this intense role? Michele has a unique approach – she runs. Running has helped Michele unwind and reconnect with life after a busy day in the office “I put on my running shoes. It’s a way to reset, refocus, and get back on track,” she shares.


Michele also proudly shares her personal motto, which has truly become a guiding principle in her life – “Make steppingstones out of stumbling blocks. Always remember that every ceiling you aim for through hard work and determination will become a floor you deserve to walk on.” A principle that teaches us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and development. It’s about learning from setbacks and using these lessons to drive further development and success.


At Bidvest Noonan, we’re truly inspired by such stories of dedication and leadership and we’re privileged to have such committed and driven individuals on our team.