Bidvest Noonan

A leading provider of Facilities Management Servicess

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Bidvest Noonan Joins the 30% Club to Champion Gender-Balanced Leadership

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Declan Doyle, Chief Executive Officer at Bidvest Noonan, Julie Mernagh, Chief People Officer at Bidvest Noonan, Elizabeth Sheehan, Country Executive at the 30% Club, and Mary Kealy, Managing Director & EDI Ambassador at Bidvest Noonan

The 30% Club has today announced Bidvest Noonan as its newest member. Bidvest Noonan, headquartered in Dublin and with a heritage spanning nearly 50 years, is Ireland’s market leader in FM services. The customer-focused services group joins 30% Club’s global campaign supported by Board Chairs and CEOs, committed to achieving better gender balance at leadership levels and throughout their organisation, for better business outcomes.

Operating across the UK and Ireland, Bidvest Noonan has doubled in size over the past five years and now employs over 27,000 people to deliver a range of services including cleaning, security, and technical maintenance. Its membership reflects a deepening commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across its operations.

Bidvest Noonan is making significant strides in advancing its EDI agenda, with a strong focus on enhancing gender diversity in leadership. This has been a multi-year journey, and to strengthen this focus, this year the company has launched targeted talent programmes, for senior and middle management. Both are designed to strengthen the pipeline of internal female talent and increase the representation of women in leadership roles.

These programmes broaden access to development opportunities and help the organisation attract, retain and advance diverse talent. In addition, Bidvest Noonan is driving accountability across all leadership teams and has set long-term goals to improve representation across all levels of the organisation.

Joining the 30% Club enables Bidvest Noonan to collaborate with a robust network of CEOs, board chairs, policymakers, investors and educators who are committed to driving meaningful change. The company will benefit from access to development programmes, sectoral working groups, research, events, mentoring, board ready programmes and senior women in leadership programmes.

Declan Doyle, CEO of Bidvest Noonan, commented: “Joining the 30% Club marks a significant milestone in our journey toward greater inclusion. We believe that a diverse and inclusive culture is essential to delivering long-term value for our customers, our people, and the communities we serve. While we’ve made strong progress, we recognise there is always more to do. We’re excited to learn from and contribute to the 30% Club as we continue to build a balanced and innovative leadership structure.”

Elizabeth Sheehan, Country Executive at the 30% Club, added: “We are delighted to welcome Bidvest Noonan to our growing network of supporters across Ireland. As a major employer in the UK and Ireland, their influence and actions have the potential to

drive meaningful change not only within their own organisation but across the wider industry. We look forward to collaborating with Bidvest Noonan as they continue to champion diversity and empower women in leadership.”

Julie Mernagh, Chief People & Culture Officer at Bidvest Noonan, said: “We are both proud and excited to be joining the 30% Club and to stand alongside its mission to drive meaningful progress in gender equality. At Bidvest Noonan, we are investing in programmes that empower women, foster inclusive cultures, and create pathways to leadership. Joining the 30% Club is a powerful step forward in our journey, and we’re excited to collaborate, learn, and lead as part of this impactful network.”

Further benefits of the 30% Club membership include enhanced employee engagement, consumer trust, and access to cross-company mentoring, scholarships, and industry-specific networking events.

Bidvest Noonan recently retained its Diversity Mark accreditation, in recognition of the company’s sustained progress in building a more diverse and inclusive workplace.

Bidvest Noonan Retains Diversity Mark Accreditation, Reaffirming Commitment to ED&I

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Todd Engman, Head of Business Development at Diversity Mark, Julie Mernagh, Chief People Officer at Bidvest Noonan, and Chandrika Deshpande, Director of Organisational Development at Bidvest Noonan

Bidvest Noonan, a leading FM services provider across the UK and Ireland, today announced it has retained its Diversity Mark Accreditation, reaffirming its commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I). At a time when a growing number of companies are scaling back their diversity and inclusion efforts, Bidvest Noonan continues to place ED&I at the heart of its business strategy.

This achievement recognises the company’s sustained progress in building a more diverse and inclusive workplace. The accreditation is awarded following an independent assessment process that verifies an organisation’s commitment to advancing ED&I. By retaining this status, Bidvest Noonan demonstrates that it has built a strong and enduring foundation for inclusion, one that reflects its values and deep commitment to its people.

Bidvest Noonan has accelerated its ED&I journey with the launch of its ED&I strategy focused on three key priorities: Enabling Experiences, Belonging, and Inclusive Society. Guided by a vision of a workplace where inclusion is at the core of everything the company does, diversity is celebrated, and every voice is heard, the company has implemented a wide range of impactful initiatives.

These include the establishment of a new ED&I Council to steer its strategy and ensure accountability at the highest level, as well as the launch of multiple colleague-led communities focused on Gender Balance, Accessibility, Race & Ethnicity, and Wellbeing. The business has also introduced inclusive leadership development, inclusive recruitment and talent practices, wellbeing programmes, and a series of social value initiatives that extend its impact beyond the workplace and into the communities it serves.

Julie Mernagh, Chief People Officer at Bidvest Noonan, commented:

“Our people are our greatest strength, and creating an inclusive culture for them is important to our success. Retaining the Diversity Mark accreditation shows the commitment and hard work of our teams to make diversity and inclusion part of our DNA. We are incredibly proud of this achievement, and it energises us to continue building on this momentum.”

Chandrika Deshpande, Director of Organisational Development at Bidvest Noonan, said:

“This achievement marks an important milestone in Bidvest Noonan’s ED&I journey. Over the past year, we launched an ambitious ED&I strategy with clear goals to embed inclusion at every level of our organisation. It’s an exciting time inside our business and incredibly rewarding to see our efforts recognised in this way.”

Lesley Miller, Strategic Project Lead at Diversity Mark, said:

“Congratulations to Bidvest Noonan for retaining their Diversity Mark Accreditation. This is a significant milestone that demonstrates their commitment to ED&I in challenging times. Diversity Mark applauds Bidvest Noonan for their focus on Culture, ERGs, Recruitment and Leadership Development as well as providing an example of what can be achieved in their industry.”

Bidvest Noonan Expands Partnership with Translink in Multiservice Win

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Bidvest Noonan, a leading provider of FM services to the transport sector across the UK and Ireland, has expanded its long-standing partnership with Translink, Northern Ireland’s public transport provider. The business retained its cleaning services contract and added catering support and consumable supplies. This is the latest in a growing number of customers who have transitioned to bundled and integrated solutions, reflecting a wider trend across the organisation.

David Barker, Chief Growth Officer at Bidvest Noonan, said:
“This expansion reflects the incredible service our teams deliver and the strength of our business in Northern Ireland. We’re seeing real momentum in bundled and integrated solutions as more organisations look to manage costs, reduce complexity, and improve outcomes.”

Operating an extensive network of bus and rail services, Translink is one of Northern Ireland’s most significant public service organisations. It plays a critical role in connecting communities, supporting the economy, and advancing sustainable transport across the region.

This expanded contract marks a major milestone in Bidvest Noonan’s partnership with Translink, which began in 2012. It reflects the continued success of Bidvest Noonan’s teams in delivering exceptional service and its growing role in the region’s transport sector.

As part of the new multiservice agreement, Bidvest Noonan will introduce a suite of innovations to support operational efficiency and enhance the passenger experience. These include cobotic cleaning solutions, sensor-based monitoring, and non-chemical cleaning systems, all designed to deliver cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environments.

Bidvest Noonan will also implement a range of sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact. These include cutting plastic and packaging use, switching to green product alternatives, and eliminating harmful chemicals from cleaning processes.

The contract also paves the way for new community engagement initiatives, beginning with a social value programme at the landmark Grand Central Station in Belfast. Through this programme, Bidvest Noonan and Translink aim to make a lasting, positive impact across the communities they serve.

Jim O’Hagan, Managing Director for Northern Ireland at Bidvest Noonan, said:
“We are incredibly proud to expand our partnership with Translink. This is a flagship, multiservice contract for us in Northern Ireland, and its retention and growth reflect the trust we’ve built through years of strong performance. By delivering a broader range of services, we’re able to deliver greater value and create even better experiences for passengers and colleagues alike.”

This contract forms part of Bidvest Noonan’s growing portfolio of major transport partnerships across the UK and Ireland, reinforcing its position as a market leader in delivering high-performing FM services for the transport sector.

Bidvest Noonan Launches Customer Value Function to Deliver Stronger Client Outcomes

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Bidvest Noonan has launched a new Customer Value function, bringing together a number of its key teams under one integrated structure. Designed to strengthen customer partnerships and improve outcomes, the function combines expertise in areas such as innovation, environmental sustainability, health and safety, operational excellence and customer experience, creating a more connected approach to delivering insight, improvement and impact for clients.

This move reflects Bidvest Noonan’s commitment to its vision:

To be the best FM business; known for exceptional people, sustainable solutions and disruptive innovation that enables our customers, colleagues and communities to thrive.

The function is led by Cornelia Olivier, who has been promoted to Managing Director of Customer Value. A member of the business for the past five years, Olivier previously served as Customer Relationship Director and now reports to Chief Operations Officer Cormac Sheils, positioning her and her team to influence operational delivery across the business.

Olivier began her career in consulting with EY and later joined 4C Associates, a UK-based consultancy specialising in procurement and supply chain performance. She went on to hold a senior role at Barclays. Her experience across both advisory and in-house environments gives her a valuable perspective on how to build partnerships, lead change and deliver value at scale.

Cormac Sheils, Chief Operations Officer, commented:

“This new function brings together critical capabilities from across our business, aligned around a shared goal: to deliver greater value for our clients. Cornelia brings the leadership and clarity needed to turn this into a real engine for client success and operational progress.”

The Customer Value function will work in close partnership with operational teams across the UK and Ireland to strengthen client relationships, generate insight to inform service strategy, deliver innovative and customer-centered solutions, drive excellence in health, safety and sustainability, and embed continuous improvement across all sectors.

Cornelia Olivier, Managing Director of Customer Value, said:

“ The Customer Value function brings together teams with specialist expertise to drive improvements in areas such as service quality, innovation delivery, sustainability, safety and client satisfaction. It gives us a clear point of difference in how we support our clients and respond to their needs.

The creation of the Customer Value function reflects Bidvest Noonan’s ongoing investment in leadership, capability and long-term client success across its operations in the UK and Ireland.

Bidvest Noonan retains Keolis Amey Docklands contract

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Bidvest Noonan has retained its contract with Keolis Amey Docklands (KAD), the operator of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) for Transport for London.

Under the renewed agreement, Bidvest Noonan will continue delivering “exceptional services” across the DLR’s network of stations, stops, and fleet, helping KAD provide a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for passengers.

Bidvest Noonan says this contract retention is a testament to the strong partnership it has with KAD and reflects the “continued high performance and dedication” of the Bidvest Noonan transport team.

Keith Middleton, Managing Director of Transport at Bidvest Noonan, commented: “We are proud to retain this important contract with Keolis Amey Docklands. Our teams are deeply committed to supporting KAD and the success of the Docklands Light Railway. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership and continuing to deliver the highest standards of service.”

Adam Prust, Key Account Director for Bidvest Noonan, who currently manages this contract said: “As we move into the new franchise with KAD, we are strengthening our partnership by expanding our services on the DLR contract to include pest control and laundry. We’re also investing in new equipment and technology to support our teams and enhance the customer experience.”

Passenger-centric transport solutions

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Keith Middleton, Transport Managing Director, discusses the role Bidvest Noonan plays in providing a seamless, safe, and enjoyable experience for rail passengers.

Bidvest Noonan’s deep expertise, award-winning innovation, highly engaged teams, and commitment to sustainability are what make the company a trusted partner for thousands of customers across the UK and Ireland.

It has over 25 years’ experience in the transport sector, working with some of the largest rail and bus operators, providing security, cleaning, and support services, with its work impacting more than 14 million commuters and over 1.5 billion journeys every year.

“We help our clients to provide safe and comfortable environments for their passengers,” explained Keith Middleton, Transport MD at Bidvest Noonan. “Don’t take my word for it, come and talk to some of my customers.

“What you will get from Bidvest Noonan is the whole team dedicated to you, staying connected, staying in contact, and making sure that we are delivering what we said we would. We will bring new ideas to the table, we will bring innovations because we are doing that all of the time, and overall we will ensure great results.”

Bidvest Noonan efficiently cleans more than 10,000 vehicles across rail, light rail, and bus operations every day, never compromising on standards but ensuring the fastest turnaround times possible. When it comes to security, its employees are passionate about keeping people safe as they travel, and ensuring that goods are protected in transit.

Among its rail customers are many of the leading companies in the sector.

“It’s a family feel among the team, and we all care about doing a first-class job,” said Keith Middleton. “In this world of big businesses, none of our customers feel overlooked. At the end of the day, we are a large business in the transport sector, but every single one of my customers has a direct line to me.

“This year, our senior executives aim to meet all of our customers to hear directly from them. We have also got an excellent customer experience team who speak to customers independently to ensure we are doing a great job. These initiatives help to foster a more open-style relationship that also allows us to talk about other things and come up with other solutions.”

Innovation in transport solutions

To provide the best possible experience for customers and their passengers in the transport sector, Bidvest Noonan continuously invests in technology and systems to ensure it remains at the forefront.

A particular area of success is its efforts in keeping customers informed, investing in technology to provide real-time data and a bespoke 24/7 performance measurement solution. This allows reporting, auditing, tracking, monitoring, and risk identification to be easily managed.

“We’ve got Bidvest Noonan Task, which gives customers the data they are looking for, and enables us to capture in real-time the cleaning that is going on, or the security work we are doing,” said Keith. “For some customers, we have created a map so customers, at any time, can see the last time somewhere was visited, giving them real-time information.”

“What is pleasing though is the amount of times I go to a site and they’ve been trialling a piece of equipment or a new chemical. The team just do that naturally, and although in some cases those trials might not go anywhere, if you don’t do it, you won’t find out what is right for the market.”

One example of success has been with Go-Ahead London, in collaboration with Chela, in the development of a range of powerful plant-based cleaning agents for vehicle cleaning, depot cleaning, and facility cleaning. It was recognised in 2023 Green Apple Award, run by The Green Organisation, an international, independent environment group promoting best practice.

“We’re currently working with that supplier to build that portfolio of products out to bring to the market,” he said. “We are constantly trialling different chemicals to find the best solution for customers, while at the same time also offering them the best value.”

“There are also many other things we are working on, whether it is a new piece of equipment or a slightly different way of doing things, we always have our finger on the pulse. We recently invested in specialist vehicles that are fully equipped, ensuring our teams have everything needed to perform deep cleans. We are making significant investments into these new ways of working that ultimately enable us to work better and to do more than ever before.”

“The progress is driven by our innovation team and innovation centre, which is constantly trialling new products. For example, we recently brought in digital twin technology, with Bidvest Noonan purchasing cameras to map buses, trams, trains, or platforms and overlaying training instructions and health and safety information.”

“This is particularly useful when looking at different fleets that we are cleaning and taking new trainees through the different elements of this on a computer screen,” he said. “They still have to go and do the live environment training as well, but it is another step forward and an innovation that is going to bring to life the importance of what our teams do every day. Another thing for me is how I can use that to benefit the health and safety message in that environment. That is something I’ve really focused on in recent months, ensuring it is at the forefront of everyone’s minds.”

Operating in an ethical and socially responsible manner

Bidvest Noonan embeds sustainability into every facet of its business and is working with clients to maximise its environmental performance and protect the planet.

“We are working hard with our colleagues and supply chain partners to reduce our impact on the environment, from removing single-use plastics and minimising the waste we generate to embracing technological change,” added Keith.

Recently, the company announced the completion of its first comprehensive carbon footprint assessment, which adheres to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and the Science-Based Targets initiative standards. The process involved a detailed analysis of emissions from the supply chain, employee commuting, and operations, with the company engaging with suppliers and various departments to identify key impact areas and opportunities for emission reductions.

“Sustainability is a key factor in our decisions and something we are passionate about,” explained Keith. “We have an electric-first policy in our business, many of our team members have transitioned to electric vehicles, and we are continuing to roll them out. By empowering our people and collaborating with our supply chain, we significantly reduce our carbon footprint. The progress we are making is important to both us and our customers.”