Bidvest Noonan

A leading provider of facilities services and solutions

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Bidvest Noonan is now powered by Wind Energy in Ireland

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The widespread recognition of climate change’s effects is prompting everyone to evaluate their contribution to climate action. In Ireland, fossil fuel dependency for electricity, heating, and transportation remains high, contributing significantly to carbon emissions. Recognising this, Bidvest Noonan is at the forefront of transitioning to sustainable, low carbon energy solutions.

We’re excited to announce an important advancement in our sustainability efforts: our Republic of Ireland offices are now fully powered by 100% wind energy, sourced from a wind farm in County Cork – a prime example of our commitment to the highest levels of green energy usage.

In our journey towards greater sustainability, we’ve initiated several other eco-friendly measures, including our transition to an electric vehicle fleet, implementing highly energy-efficient equipment and so much more. Building on these efforts, in 2023, we introduced an energy management service, aiding our customers in their own sustainable transitions. Discover more about how Bidvest Noonan is shaping a greener future with our Energy Management Service here.

Enhancing campus experience: How Bidvest Noonan’s Tailored Solutions Address Today’s Facilities Management Challenges and Trends.

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At Bidvest Noonan, we understand the constantly evolving nature of today’s academic world. Universities are no longer just educational institutions; they have become mini-ecosystems where student well-being, technological progress, and sustainability are crucial.


Here are the key points that our experts, Jenny Jones and Lorraine Monaghan, working alongside David Everett, an expert in campus experience, have written about how facilities teams and universities can collaborate to enhance the campus experience for students, highlighting the evolving partnership between facilities services teams and universities in enhancing campus experiences, emphasizing the importance of student well-being, sustainability, and technology. It outlines the sector’s adaptation to changing student demographics and expectations, including the significant role of facilities management in creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. It also addresses the impact of COVID-19 on campus operations and the growing emphasis on mental health support. Furthermore, it explores technological advancements in facilities management, aiming to improve operational efficiency and sustainability. The collaboration between universities and facilities teams is pivotal in fostering an engaging and supportive campus atmosphere that aligns with students’ values and educational aspirations.


Improving Student Well-being and Sustainability: As students today expect more from their educational journey, there’s a shift towards creating environments that reflect their values, particularly regarding well-being and sustainability. Our approach to facilities management balances cost-efficiency with cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.


Facilities Management can be a Competitive Differentiator in the higher education sector: As competition for student enrolment increases, facilities management plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming and attractive campus environment. Universities can leverage facilities management to improve the campus atmosphere and enhance the overall student experience, helping them stand out from the competition.


Diverse and Inclusive Environments for a Global Student Population: With the increase in the number of international students enrolling in educational institutions, there is a pressing need for facilities and services that are adaptable and inclusive. The goal is to ensure that each student feels welcomed and supported, promoting a sense of belonging and community. It is important to create environments that feel like a home for students from diverse backgrounds.


Adapting to Post-COVID-19 Campus Operations: The pandemic has highlighted the critical need for campuses that prioritize cleanliness and safety to safeguard physical and mental health. The adaptation of cleaning and security services to meet these new requirements is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment.

Transformation of Security Services to Enhance Student Experience: The rebranding of security services to emphasise a guardian-like role highlights the evolving approach to campus safety, focusing on student well-being. Bidvest Noonan’s security solutions align with this trend, offering a more engaged and supportive security presence.

Incorporating Technology for Improved Facilities Management: The integration of smart technologies, data analytics, and robotics represents the forefront of innovative facilities management. These technologies enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability, meeting the forward-thinking expectations of universities.

Sustainability Initiatives: Aligning with universities’ sustainability goals involves adopting eco-friendly practices, such as green cleaning, water conservation, and waste reduction. These efforts contribute significantly to the creation of sustainable campus environments.
Future Trends in Facilities Services: The anticipated integration of AI, automation, and data analytics in facilities management presents opportunities for us at Bidvest Noonan to lead in efficiency, predictive maintenance, and resource optimisation, staying ahead of industry trends.

Overcoming Challenges with Innovative Solutions: Balancing the demands of new health and safety standards, alongside security, privacy, and sustainability challenges, requires innovative and adaptable solutions. The focus is on continuously evolving to meet these demands, showcasing leadership and a problem-solving mindset in the education sector.

Partnership Between Universities and Facilities Teams: The partnership between facilities management experts and educational institutions is key to developing responsive and student-focused campus environments. This collaborative approach is essential for shaping the future of the campus experience, focusing on problem-solving and meeting the specific needs of the student population.

For a more detailed exploration of these problem-solving strategies in enhancing the academic sector.

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.

60-second interview with Helen Emerson, our Health and Safety Incident Prevention Executive and ED&I Ambassador

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In our latest 60-second interview, we had the fantastic opportunity to sit down with Helen Emerson, H&S Incident Prevention Executive & EDI Ambassador. Helen opened up about her day-to-day life and driving passions.

How would you define your role at Bidvest Noonan?


My role is multifaceted, primarily focused on integrating health and safety into everyone’s mindset. I actively engage with people to understand their needs, conduct risk assessments, and devise solutions. As a Health and Safety Incident Prevention Executive, my role involves reducing insurance costs while working closely with people to find the best solutions for them and the business.


What has been your most memorable day at Bidvest Noonan?


One of the most memorable days I had while working at Bidvest Noonan was during the ‘Food for Thought’ event held at the University of Limerick. Although we had organised several ED&I events in 2023, this one was truly unforgettable. It was amazing to see everyone bringing dishes from their own cultures. It was more than an event; it was a celebration of our diversity, a real community moment. That day, we didn’t just share food; we shared stories and a sense of belonging.


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


The best piece of advice that I have received was about the importance of listening. Not just to the words spoken but to the unspoken ones, too. This advice has been the key in my personal and professional life. It’s about understanding, empathising, and really connecting with people.


How do you motivate yourself?


I motivate myself by setting personal standards and goals. I love the feeling of a full diary; it shows I’m making a difference. Ticking off tasks on my to-do list gives me a sense of achievement. It’s about setting targets and hitting them, day in and day out.


Who or what has inspired you the most?


What inspires me the most is the people who work with me, my colleagues in EHS like Marina Goncalves and Declan Ryan as well as those in the Risk and Compliance team. Additionally, the everyday learning experiences at Bidvest Noonan fuel my personal and professional growth. These interactions enrich my life and contribute to my development.


If you had a motto, what would it be?


“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” This quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson is my guiding star. It’s all about ambition, diligence, and making the most of every moment.

Meet Darrin McCartney, our Director of Operations in Northern Ireland.

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We sat down with Darrin McCartney, our Director of Operations in Northern Ireland, to discuss his journey and insights as he embarks on a new chapter with the company having joined in 2023

In conversation, Darrin shares his perspectives on the exciting opportunities presented by recent acquisitions here at Bidvest Noonan, the dynamic leadership of our Managing Director for Northern Ireland, Jim O’Hagan, and his passion for innovation within the cleaning industry.

Tell us about your experience in the facilities industry.
I have been in the cleaning business since I was 16. Over the years, I have worked in practically every area of this industry. I worked in sectors such as aviation, pharmaceutical, and general offices. I also have experience in security.


What can you tell us about Bidvest Noonan in Northern Ireland?
In the past six months, I’ve witnessed a significant rise in Bidvest Noonan’s profile in the NI region. The acquisitions of Amber, Robinsons, and Swords Security send a strong message to competitors. Under Jim O’Hagan’s leadership, the company is making great progress in NI and we are here to do business.


You mentioned Jim’s leadership. What specifically about Jim and the developments in Northern Ireland caught your attention?
Jim’s arrival has brought a positive vibe to the team. The developments in Northern Ireland present a massive opportunity. Jim’s background in different industries adds a dynamic aspect, and I believe combining his leadership with the support of my operational experience creates a unique mix.


Can you elaborate on this unique skillset you bring to Bidvest Noonan?
My speciality is troubleshooting. I excel in situations where a site or contract faces challenges and I love getting into the nitty-gritty to find solutions. I often attend sites to see how our front-line teams operate. For instance, last year, I sat as a member of the public to observe operations, understand day-to-day behaviours, and then used this to formulate action plans based on what I learned.


How do you envision incorporating innovation into your role at Bidvest Noonan?
Innovation is crucial for staying ahead in our industry. At Bidvest Noonan, I see the company embracing change, and I aim to incorporate innovation into my approach. Understanding the complexities of challenges, listening to teams at all levels, and implementing innovative solutions will be key.


It was the innovation aspect of Bidvest Noonan that drew me in. I’m passionate about robotics and technology, and I look forward to working with our Director of Technology and Innovation, Peter Smyth, on innovative projects. Being part of a company that embraces change is exciting, and I see great potential for growth in this area.