Bidvest Noonan Ireland

Ireland's leading provider of facilities services and solutions

Case Study

Education Sector Insight Strategies Universities and Facilities Teams are Using to Create Exceptional Campus Experiences

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A Changing Sector
In recent years, universities have heightened their focus on student well-being and sustainability. Today, students perceive
their educational experience as extending beyond traditional classrooms and attending university can be costly for students and their parents and they feel the need to have a formative and important experience while attending. They also expect their university to reflect their values. This necessitates a strategic approach from facilities teams, balancing cost-efficiency with demands for technological advancements and more sustainable approaches.

The higher education sector is witnessing significant growth. There has been an increase in the number of universities, leading to heightened competition for student enrolment. In this competitive environment, the role of facilities management has become more crucial in shaping campus experience, which can be an important point of difference for universities.

International student enrolment has seen a significant increase over the years, now constituting nearly a quarter of the total student population across the UK. The increased diversity of the student population and an increased focus on the importance of inclusion is informing decisions taken by campus management. Prioritizing the accommodation of
diverse cultural backgrounds and needs has significantly impacted various facets of campus life, extending from dining services to residential accommodations. University teams aim to provide a ‘home to home’ feeling for students as they take up residence on campus.

As with all sectors, Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the education sector, with an increased appreciation for the role of cleaning teams in protecting communities from illness and the introduction of new expectations and practices. Another growing trend is the increased focus on mental health in universities. Recognising its importance, universities aim to create supportive environments for students’ mental well-being. This involves designing spaces that encourage relaxation, social interaction, and physical activity, promoting a healthier campus atmosphere. Facilities teams have always been key to providing the right environments for mental wellbeing; however, increasingly, facilities teams are being asked to support their university’s initiatives, such as sharing expertise on substance dangers and helping students recognise signs of mental health issues, along with keeping a watchful eye over the student population.

Central to these evolving trends is the close relationship between universities and their facilities teams. Operating not as separate units but as one cohesive entity, this partnership is foundational in creating a campus environment that is both inviting and conducive to learning.

The Evolving Role of Facilities Services
Facilities services teams within universities across the UK and Ireland are earning acknowledgement for their role enhancing the overall student experience.

A key evolution in the role of facilities services is the transformation of campus security.
In many universities security solutions are being reimagined and security teams are being rebranded to reflect a more guardian-like role, prioritising the safeguarding of students. In many universities, security officers are referred to as campus experience officers or campus ambassadors, reflecting a broader and more engaged role. Their role extends to offering advice on personal safety, acting as first responders in medical emergencies, and being a source of information and assistance in various situations.

The significance of these services in contributing to mental health is increasingly recognised. Environments that are clean, secure, and visually appealing play a vital role in mitigating stress and fostering a positive mindset. However, facilities teams are also supporting university initiatives to look after the mental health of students, particularly security officers who keep a watchful eye over students and providing information about ranging from the dangers of intoxication to how to spot the signs that someone is having suicidal thoughts.

Facilities teams shape campus culture and environment, ensuring impeccable order and a welcoming atmosphere. Their efforts impact the overall experience for students, faculty,
and visitors, developing community spirit and mutual respect. During university events, from exhibitions to festivals, these teams collaborate on logistics, event management, and post- event clean-ups, contributing to student unity and a sense of belonging. Teams may also share expertise at events, enhancing student well-being.

Impact of Diverse and Changing Student Demographics
The increasing diversity of the student body in universities across the UK and Ireland brings with it unique challenges for facilities services leaders. As the composition of students becomes ever more varied, encompassing different ethnicities, faiths, ages, genders, and backgrounds, the need for facilities teams to be both adaptable and inclusive has never been more important.

Facilities teams play a crucial role in facilitating the smooth transition of a diverse student population, including a significant number of international students, into university life.
Facilities teams, especially security officers, are often among the first people a student sees as they arrive on campus, helping to create lasting impressions. Recognising the varied needs and expectations of students—whether first-time attendees or returning mature students these teams provide essential support. International students may find the university experience daunting due to unfamiliar local customs. Facilities teams are instrumental in ensuring their comfort, safety, and overall well-being, addressing both physical amenities and the diverse cultural and personal needs of different student groups.

Facilities teams go beyond managing campus maintenance; they are dedicated caretakers, ensuring a nurturing and inviting environment for students. Today, teams should be recruited and trained to contribute in this way. Their interactions with students should be characterised by understanding and responsiveness, ensuring that all students, irrespective of their background, feel valued and cared for. Our facilities teams on campuses often match the diversity of the students and university staff they serve. Team members come from all walks of life which allows them to more easily relate to others as individuals and as a group.

Adapting to Student Needs
Understanding and meeting the evolving needs of students must be central to any strategy. This requires maintaining a continuous dialogue to stay up to date with the needs of students, keeping pace with the changing trends in student lifestyles and learning environments. Students today need and expect more than basic functional spaces; they
need environments that inspire and motivate them. These areas need to be clean, safe, and attractive, enabling collaboration and creativity.

For many, the pandemic highlighted the necessity for clean, decontaminated, and sanitised environments, but in the university sector, there has always been a focus on infection control, with a need to protect students, who meet indoors in large numbers, from common health risks like colds and flu. Cleaning teams in the sector must ensure that cleaning is thorough and ensure that touchpoints are sanitised.

In universities, there are areas that are in constant use such as bathrooms and areas where litter accumulates quickly such as canteens and common areas. In these areas, there is
an increased need for vigilance to ensure areas remain clean and tidy. When students first arrive at university there can be a wave of colds and other bugs. Methodical frequent cleaning can help reduce cross contamination reducing outbreaks.

Universities face unique security challenges, with students, being vulnerable to crime due to the social nature of campus life. Students desire a visible and responsive security
presence, with well-lit and monitored walkways. Security teams must go beyond traditional methods, becoming strategic partners to ensure a safe and enjoyable university experience, responding promptly to emergencies.

In this sector, it is crucial to build strong relationships with blue light services and collaborate closely with policing agencies to mitigate crime around campus.

Technology in Facilities Services
Embracing cutting-edge technology is a vital aspect of modern university facilities services. Universities, often regarded as the cradles of innovation and new enterprises, are expected to demonstrate forward- thinking in all areas, including in how their facilities are maintained. Our facilities services teams, by incorporating modern technologies, not only enhance operational efficiency but also inspire the student and educator community.
A prime example of this is the implementation of smart systems that gather real-time data about building usage. This allows our cleaning teams to respond to needs as they arise and provides historical data to optimise planning and resource allocation. This is highly valuable in such large and demanding environments as university campuses. On campuses, it pays to know which areas require servicing in real time and which have been unused. Bidvest Noonan’s dynamic cleaning system, a recipient of the ‘Best Use of Smart Solutions’ award at the European Cleaning and Hygiene awards, is a good example; With the dynamic cleaning
solution, the building activity levels are regularly reviewed, and the cleaning solution is flexed to changes in requirements within a building.

The role of robotics in facilities services has expanded significantly. Robotic cleaners, improve significantly every year. Many of the latest machines are capable of autonomously cleaning large areas. This advancement allows university cleaning teams to allocate more time to complex tasks while ensuring efficient use of resources such as energy, water, and cleaning agents.

Campus security teams enhance safety by integrating advanced technologies like improved camera systems, AI, and smart sensors, such as the halo sensor. Smart software solutions, like digital occurrence logs, enable efficient incident monitoring through visual heatmapping, helping teams identify trends and respond effectively.

Technological advancements are also delivering significant sustainability progress. Innovations like the Comac Inaqua, which recycles water from floor cleaning machines for reuse, and aqueous ozone systems, which convert tap water into effective cleaning and disinfecting solutions, and powerful scrubbing machines which use less energy, water and cleaning chemicals all contribute to more sustainable campuses.

Sustainability and Environmental Practices
Today, universities are highly motivated to integrate sustainability into their campus operations. Environmental stewardship has become a priority in the sector as in many others.

Significant sustainability improvements often come from changing existing processes and procedures rather than solely introducing new equipment or chemicals. This approach can include optimising and resourcing usage, adopting eco-friendly cleaning methods, as well as implementing energy-saving practices.

Awareness programs that focus on issues like waste reduction, energy conservation, and the broader environmental impact can help create a culture of sustainability. To be most effective, facility services teams need to be the drivers of such programs.

We have found that water conservation measures, including rainwater harvesting and water recycling systems, can be effective in reducing the campus’s environmental footprint.

The Future of Campus Facilities Services
As we look towards the future of campus facilities services, it’s evident that the sector is poised for change. This will be driven by technological advancements, evolving student needs, and a continuous push towards sustainability.

The future of the facilities services industry is increasingly intertwined with technology. We’re likely to see a greater adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in routine maintenance tasks. AI can help predict maintenance needs, thereby reducing downtime and improving efficiency. Similarly, automation in areas like cleaning and landscaping can free up human resources for more complex tasks.

Another trend is the growing use of data analytics. By analysing data on campus usage patterns, facilities managers can make more informed decisions about resource allocation, energy management, and space optimisation. This data-driven approach not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances the overall campus environment.

One of the key challenges in the near future will be adapting to new health and safety standards following the pandemic. This will require innovative approaches to ensure that campuses are not only safe but also conducive to learning and social interaction.

Sustainability will continue to be a major focus area. There’s a growing expectation for universities to lead in environmental stewardship. This involves not only managing resources more effectively but also educating the campus community about sustainable practices.

Another challenge is maintaining the balance between security and privacy. With the increased use of surveillance and monitoring technologies, ensuring that security measures don’t infringe on individual privacy will be crucial.

Educational institutions strive to balance their need to provide high quality facilities with their need to manage costs. They look to their facilities partners for innovative solutions that deliver maximum value, allowing them to preserve budgets for teaching, research, and other core areas.

Despite these challenges, there are ample opportunities for growth and improvement. The increasing focus on student well-being and sustainability presents an opportunity for facilities managers to innovate and redefine what a campus experience can be. By staying ahead of these trends and challenges, facilities services providers can continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education environments.

The unity and partnership between universities and facilities teams are the heart of creating an exceptional campus experience. Together, they forge a dynamic and responsive environment that adapts to and anticipates the needs of students.

About the Authors:
Lorraine Monaghan is Director of Operations, Education at Bidvest Noonan. Lorraine has an impressive track record in the education sector, having supported a number of large and prestigious universities. David Everett is a former Deputy Director of Campus Experience& Commercial services at a global top ten University in the UK, with over 25 years of experience, including at Director level, across the UK Higher education sector; Jenny Jones is Director of Operations, Corporate and Public Sector at Bidvest Noonan. Jenny has more than 20 years of industry experience.

How Trust, Training, and Teamwork Led a Cleaning Team to 1,000 Accident-Free Days in the Life Sciences Sector

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In the world of life sciences, where every detail matters, safety is key. That’s why every achievement in this area resonates deeply, especially with those who are responsible for looking to uphold them. Our team at a biotechnological facility in Dublin has successfully reached 1,000 days without a single reportable accident. But it’s not all about the number for this team; it’s about their dedication to keeping each other and all those across the site safe in a challenging and vitally important environment. But what exactly goes into reaching an achievement like this?


A Team That Believes In Each Other
This team, guided by the fantastic site lead, Jurgita Mikutaite, has shown what can be achieved with hard work and care. Their mutual trust and confidence in each other’s abilities strengthens bonds, ensuring the highest standards of safety – an essential factor in supporting customers who develop life-changing medications.
Katalin Eperjesi, who oversees some of Bidvest Noonan’s Life Sciences accounts, shares her pride in the team’s accomplishment. “In such a specialised field, reaching this milestone is truly special. It shows the strength and commitment of our team members,” she says. Every day, they prove that working together when paying attention to safety really pays off.


Building Safety Together
True safety in the workplace in the life sciences sector comes from a collective effort, where each individual’s actions contribute to the overall success of the team. This is a principle that Jurgita’s team lives by every day.
“Regular training and workshops are essential, but the real difference comes from our teamwork,” Jurgita emphasises. In this team, safety is a shared responsibility. Every member is proactive in identifying potential hazards and works collaboratively to mitigate them, ensuring a supportive and secure environment. This culture of open communication has been pivotal in reaching the 1,000-day milestone without any lost time accidents.


Training and Support: The Backbone of Safety
In life sciences environments, effective training and support are not just about imparting knowledge; they are about instilling a mindset where safety becomes second nature. The role of Conor Rourke, Sean Lawlor, and the EHSQ team in this aspect has been vital.
Their approach to training engages the team, providing practical, hands-on guidance that is tailored to the unique challenges of each biotechnological facility. This level of support and training has empowered the team not just to know about safety but to live it every day, contributing significantly to their impressive safety record.


Inspiring the Industry
Achieving a milestone like 1,000 accident-free days sends a powerful message across the sector. This team’s journey shows that with the right approach, dedication, and team ethos, maintaining an exceptional safety record is attainable. It also demonstrates that prioritising safety, investing in team training, and building a culture of mutual respect and vigilance can lead to outstanding results, elevating standards across the sector.

In our ongoing 60-second interview series, we recently had the pleasure of talking with Marina Goncalves, our EHSQ Executive and EDI Ambassador.

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Marina started her career 10 years ago as an environmental graduate in the construction industry in Brazil. Since moving to Ireland over six years ago, she has become increasingly involved in health and safety. This transition was natural to her, and although her background was in environmental and sustainability, she also fell in love with health and safety. At Bidvest Noonan, she has been able to experience different environments, ranging from hospitals to pharmaceutical manufacturers to corporate offices. Each workplace is unique, which is what makes health and safety so special.
For Marina, health and safety extends beyond just a job; it is about caring for and protecting our people from hazards they sometimes don’t realize exist. She said, “I don’t personally protect them, but my job is to provide them with the tools to protect themselves and their colleagues.” At Bidvest Noonan, we prioritize our people, which is why health and safety are at the heart of everything we do.


Find out more about Marina, her role, and her experiences in her 60-second interview below:


How would you define what you do at Bidvest Noonan?
My primary role is Health and Safety for Integrated Solutions. As part of this job, I support our operations teams in identifying risks relating to the day-to-day activities, and together, we come up with control measures to reduce the likelihood of injury for our workforce.
I also have 2 other jobs, which I am very proud of, the EDI Council and the ESG Board for Ireland. The EDI Council Ireland’s role is to help the business become an employer of choice, where everyone feels included. The ESG board is responsible for ensuring the business is on track to achieving its carbon reduction targets.

What has been your best day at Bidvest Noonan?
It is hard to point out one specific day, especially after a very special last couple of years. Last year was full of milestones for me, I was nominated for the “outstanding contribution” category of the Bidvest Noonan awards, I saw the EDI council receive 2 external awards, and I took over the Environmental pillar of the ESG Board. So many great things have happened!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
When I started in the business just over 4 years ago, Cormac Sheils told me that the job was hard, but I could count on the people. And over the years, this has been proven to be right over and over. So, anytime I am stuck, I know there are people who will go the extra mile to support me.

How do you motivate yourself?
What truly motivates me is knowing that my work contributes to our people going home safely after their day of work.


Who or what has inspired you the most?
I am very fortunate to work closely with countless inspiring individuals in operations. But there are 2 superstars in the Health and Safety Team that truly set the standards high: Helen Emerson and Declan Ryan. I am inspired by them everyday.

If you had a motto, what would it be?
I would probably say if you don’t know an answer to something, don’t be afraid to ask the question.

In our latest 60-second interview, Jordan Berry, Regional Manager in the Isle of Man, shares his inspirational 10-year journey with our company.

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Jordan’s career began as an Aviation Security Officer, where his primary responsibility was processing passengers and luggage at the airport. He was later offered a part-time position on a newly acquired prison escort contract, which he initially approached with some trepidation. However, he successfully completed the necessary courses and eventually transitioned to a full-time Custody Detention Officer role in 2016. Within two years, Jordan progressed from Senior Custody Officer to Custody Supervisor and then to Custody Contract Manager as the company expanded into cleaning services.

Today, Jordan is the Regional Manager for the Isle of Man, overseeing all of Bidvest Noonan’s contracts, including Prison Custody Services, Aviation, and Port Security.

In one sentence, how would you define what you do at Bidvest Noonan?

Regional Manager for Bidvest Noonan on the Isle of Man, managing a variety of contracts with circa 110 staff members across our IOM business.

What has been your best day at Bidvest Noonan?

I have had many great days with Bidvest Noonan, it’s difficult to pick out one event, however, having reached the milestone of a decade with the business stands out. I have watched the business develop, expand, and improve drastically over the course of 10 years; I have been very fortunate to be a part of this journey.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Life is a river! A beginning, an end, and a million different ways in between. No matter what life throws at you, how difficult things may appear to be, or whatever course you take, the river (life) always moves forward.

How do you motivate yourself (and your team)?

It’s easy to take life for granted, but I make an effort to reflect on the opportunities I have and the fantastic group I work with every day. Without my team we would not be where we are today, it’s important we all continue to develop and expand on our knowledge and experiences.

Who or what has inspired you the most?

A close friend of mine possesses a lot of knowledge, whether it’s wiring a light switch or performing a full engine rebuild, he does it with perfection. The knowledge and passion he has shared with me over the years inspire me to do better in all that I do.

If you had a motto, what would it be?

Take the opportunity – A boat in the harbour is safe, but eventually it’s hull will rot out!

Welcome Juan Guardado – Our Infection Prevention & Control Specialist

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Welcome Juan Guardado – Our Infection Prevention & Control Specialist
Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming Juan, our newest Infection Prevention and Control Specialist, to the team. Eager to get to know him better, we sat down with Juan to find out more about him, his role, and his experiences since joining us.

Tell us about your background?


I am from Spain, but I have lived in Ireland for the last 6 years. While relocating to a different country always comes with its set of challenges, the warmth and openness of the Irish people made the transition smoother. They welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a friend rather than a stranger. The support I received reassured me that I made the right choice in moving here.

What has your professional journey been like here?


I began as a qualified nurse, initially working on a dialysis ward at University Hospital Limerick. Subsequently, I moved to the paediatric and then neonatal unit. The Covid-19 pandemic sparked an interest in infection prevention control. This made me pursue a postgraduate degree in the subject to further my expertise.

Tell me more about your role at Bidvest Noonan?


My role covers a wide range of responsibilities spanning healthcare sites across the nation. Despite its vast scope, I’m very passionate about it. Every day, I collaborate with a very dedicated team to make crucial decisions. This includes partnering with healthcare professionals like nurses, doctors, and the hospital IPC team.
Together, we work on innovative solutions to maintaining high cleanliness and sanitisation standards. It may not seem like it, but it is something that has the potential to save lives. Our shared goal is to design, implement, and train others in effective infection control procedures, ensuring safety for all at the hospital.

Can you provide a deeper insight into infection control?


Preventing the spread of infections, in general, is a lot more complex than one may think. In the realm of ICP, there’s a constant learning curve. The key is to be proactive, staying on top of the latest medical and scientific discoveries.
At Bidvest Noonan, I liaise with numerous hospitals. Each has its unique needs based on factors like demographics, services, and location. My role starts with understanding these specific needs, followed by crafting bespoke solutions in collaboration with my team. Effective communication with the hospital’s prevention control unit and microbiologists is essential for finding the right strategies.

Since you have joined, can you share a highlight from your time at Bidvest Noonan?
So far, being part of Bidvest Noonan has been a very rewarding experience. A standout moment was when I was part of the team reviewing healthcare award nominations, and it felt great to be part of this process.
Engaging in discussions about our healthcare sites has strengthened my bond with the team and my role here. Being able to contribute to those important decisions was very motivating for me.

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?


Without a doubt, healthcare professionals. Being one myself, I’ve witnessed the dedication and commitment they show in ensuring the best for their patients.

Lastly, do you have a motto that guides you?


“Prevention is protection.” By embracing basic preventive measures, like hand hygiene and proper etiquette, we can reduce numerous infections and ease the burden on the hospitals and the healthcare system.

26 Years of Excellence: Ray Cantwell’s Journey with Bidvest Noonan

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Ray is a very prominent figure at Bidvest Noonan, and his incredible 26 year journey is an illustration of not just success but adaptability, mentorship, and drive, that certainly shows no signs of stopping.

The Early Days

With a young family to raise and an ambitious mindset, Ray seized an opportunity to join Bidvest Noonan in 1997 as a General Operative. His passion and drive to excel were quickly noticed and he was promoted to Shift Supervisor in less than a year.

Ray’s strong work ethic has always served him well. Over the years, he climbed through various roles within the business, from Assistant Manager at a large shopping centre in Ireland to Site Manager at a prestigious pharmaceutical company.

“I’ve had the chance to grow and learn in ways I never thought possible,” he reflects, crediting much of his success to his ability to adapt when needed in his pursuit of growth.

Embracing Fresh Responsibilities

Transitioning between sectors, including manufacturing to retail, broadened Ray’s experience as he faced new and unique challenges. During his four-year tenure at Bristol-Myers Squibb, he successfully built a highly efficient and cohesive team—an accomplishment that fills him with immense pride.

But Ray has never been one to rest on his laurels. When large contracts were won, Ray never hesitated to step up, eager to forge success for new customers. He took up roles as Area Manager and then Client Service Manager for some large blue-chip customers of Bidvest Noonan.

Over time, Ray’s responsibilities expanded, which earned him a promotion to Operations Manager, a role he holds today. Throughout his time as Operations Manager, Ray has led the growth of big contracts and teams in regions like Munster and Connacht. Now the Leinster region is under his remit, where he supports customers in our Workplace Solutions Business Unit.

The Importance of Guidance

Ray’s rise at Bidvest Noonan was not without guidance. He speaks warmly of the joy he receives from mentoring others, a pleasure he’s enjoyed throughout his career. He credits those who have worked with him from both the past and the present, including Managing Director Mary Kealy, Director of Operations Romaine Nolan, as well as close colleagues Marian McGuinness and Paul Casey, for their vital roles in his development.

“I wouldn’t be here without them,” Ray acknowledges. “They guided me, helped me adapt, and showed me what I could become. Now, I take pleasure in helping others in turn.”

Building Success Through Relationships

Ray’s relationships with his colleagues, and indeed customers, form the bedrock of his success. His talent for forging connections and his sincere interest in supporting and mentoring have created a legacy transcending his title.

“It’s about people,” he emphasises. “Building relationships, being there for others, guiding them as I was guided. Supporting customers when they need it. That’s what it’s all about”

‘No Thought of Stopping’

Though some might contemplate slowing down after such a fruitful career, Ray’s ambition and energy remain determined. His eyes are on the future, always poised for the next challenge, and fuelled by a strong belief in continuous growth.

“I’m not thinking about stopping,” he declares. “There’s so much more to do, so much more to achieve. I’m ready for whatever comes next.”

‘A Legacy of Adaptation, Mentorship, and Growth’

Ray’s story stands as a testament to the power of adaptability, the significance of mentorship, and a relentless drive to evolve. From his early days to his present role, his 26-year tenure at Bidvest Noonan serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity.