On a cold January night around 11:00 p.m., James was just starting his shift when a call came in from security. A young woman, barefoot and in pyjamas, was seen wandering near the power station. As James got closer, he noticed she had visible signs of self-harm. What happened next was far from ordinary…
Bidvest Noonan Promotes Darren Martin to Director of Operations for Security Division in Ireland
We are pleased to announce the promotion of Darren Martin to Director of Operations for our Security Division in Ireland. Darren’s significant contributions to our business and the industry, along with his dedication to delivering exceptional service for our customers, have been key factors in the decision to appoint him to this role.
Darren joined Bidvest Noonan in 2019 as a Strategic Account Manager, bringing over 20 years of experience in security, operations, and account management. His expertise has played a crucial role in effectively managing service delivery and driving exceptional performance for our blue-chip corporate and retail accounts. Darren’s proactive approach and problem-solving skills have consistently led to effective contract management and risk reduction for our customers.
Darren has an impressive track record in security and has been honoured with several awards, including the prestigious OSPA’s Outstanding Contract Security Director of the Year Award in 2023.
Reflecting on his promotion, Darren said: “I am delighted to have been given this opportunity at such an exciting time for our business. Our goals for the future are ambitious, and I look forward to helping achieve them.”
Mary Kealy, our Managing Director, commented: “Darren’s promotion to Director of Operations is well-deserved. His expertise and commitment have been key to our success in the security space. I am confident that with his leadership skills and expertise, our security services will continue to excel and provide outstanding results for our clients.”
From Cleaning Operative to GMP Expert: Alexander Escalante shares his journey at Bidvest Noonan
GMP Expert Alexander Escalante’s story at Bidvest Noonan is a powerful example of growth and professional development. Our marketing team met Alexander at a customer site, a leading pharmaceutical company, where they were warmly greeted by a colleague who showed the confidence of a true master in his field. They were keen to hear his story and discover what he believes are the fundamentals for high performance in GMP environments.
Dedication and Drive: The Pillars of Alexander’s Career
Alexander, or as his closest colleagues like to call him, Alex, began his professional journey in the recruitment sector, specifically staffing for cruise lines. This early role gave him a deep appreciation for the importance of every individual’s contribution to a larger operation. This experience subtly influenced his understanding of the significance of each task, no matter how minor, in achieving broader objectives. This insight would become a foundational aspect of his subsequent career in the Life Sciences sector.
Joining Bidvest Noonan in 2004, Alex brought this profound understanding, coupled with strong ambition and passion, to the role. This saw him seize the opportunities to train and develop in the business and he propelled through the ranks which saw him rise from the role of a cleaning operative to that of a GMP supervisor.
Hailing from the Philippines, Alex now has 20 years’ experience in the facilities industry. His role now extends beyond meeting the stringent standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the Life Sciences sector. He plays a vital role in supporting the safe production of life-saving medications, firmly believing that the work he and his team perform is crucial and far from just routine.
During our conversation with Alex, we asked him to identify five fundamentals he believes are key to high performance in GMP environments.
- Ensure Your Team Has the Right Tools
“It might seem obvious, but the foundation of an effective cleaning team lies in providing them with the right tools and resources,” says Alex. He emphasises the necessity of having the latest cleaning equipment, quality materials, and technology. This approach doesn’t just boost efficiency; it ensures the team meets the demanding standards required in pharmaceutical environments. “In this sector, running out of essential supplies can disrupt the creation of a clean and safe environment,” he adds.
- Invest in Comprehensive Training and Mentoring
Training is more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about shaping understanding and commitment. Alex advocates for a robust training program that guides team members to understand the ‘why’ behind their tasks. “This method results in a team that’s not just technically skilled but also deeply committed to the significance of their roles,” he notes. “In environments like these, there’s no room for lapses in training, so it’s of the utmost importance.”
Bidvest Noonan has some exciting new plans for our people in the life sciences sector. These plans are set to enhance how we train our colleagues particularly in GMP environments, ensuring even higher standards and expertise.
- Create a High-Standards Mindset
Encourage your team to appreciate the impact of their work. Alex suggests, “Help your team understand their crucial role in the broader context of the site you work at. For instance, some of our teams at Bidvest Noonan work with customers who produce life-saving medication.” Realising this often elevates daily tasks to a mission, where there is a collective focus on its success. This creates a strong culture of excellence and meticulous attention to detail.
- Strict Adherence to SOPs
“Each Life Sciences site has its specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and adhering to these is paramount,” Alex points out. Following these SOPs rigorously is vital to maintain the integrity of cleaning processes and uphold the necessary standards for safe pharmaceutical production. “We want our customer to rest assured knowing that the service we deliver will never interrupt their operations, only support it”.
- Promote Open Communication and Safety
Creating an environment where team members can express concerns and observations freely is essential. “A culture that prioritises safety and proactive problem-solving can significantly improve performance,” Alex explains. Encouraging a setting where every issue, big or small, is addressed can lead to a reduction in lost-time accidents at customer sites.
Julie Mernagh joins Bidvest Noonan as its new Chief People & Culture Officer.
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Julie Mernagh as our Chief People & Culture Officer. Julie’s extensive experience and proven track record in human resources, talent development, and organisational culture make her an ideal fit for aligning with Bidvest Noonan’s needs and values.
An Impressive Background
In her previous role as the Global Head of Leadership and Talent Development at Vodafone, Julie was instrumental in developing innovative leadership and talent strategies across Europe and Africa. Julie drove pioneering Diversity & Inclusion policies, enabling Vodafone to become a leader in this space.
Julie’s professional journey includes a senior leadership role at AIB, a major commercial bank in Ireland and the UK, where she directed organisational culture initiatives central to the people strategy. With over a decade of consulting experience at renowned firms like PwC and Accenture, she specialised in areas such as strategy, people & change, and led large-scale transformations across Europe.
Vision for Bidvest Noonan
As Chief People & Culture Officer at Bidvest Noonan, Julie will lead the People & Culture team, focusing on developing and executing a people strategy to foster an enhanced workplace environment and improve overall employee experience.
Bidvest Noonan CEO, Declan Doyle said “Julie’s experience and values align perfectly with the needs of our business. She has a proven track record of building successful HR strategies, transforming colleague experiences, and unlocking potential. I am confident that she will be highly successful at Bidvest Noonan and I am delighted that she has joined us”.
Julie said ” I am delighted to join Bidvest Noonan, an ambitious company that is passionate about putting its people first. Bidvest Noonan is serious about investing in its people and culture agenda and creating employee experiences that will enable their growth trajectory. I am looking forward to making a difference for our colleagues and customers.”
From Admin to Operations Manager: The Inspiring Journey of Christina McDonald, a Determined Leader at Bidvest Noonan.
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
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.