hand Jill’ s ability to grow online sales through online marketing strategies.
Jill is an Associate Lecturer at the University of Ulster on their Post Grad Digital Marketing & Communications course, and has worked on Rutgers University Fortune 500 Management Program providing Ecommerce Workshops to the Directors and managers of Fortune 500 Companies.
Jill is an International Speaker on Digital and a Digital Trainer. Q9: www. origindigital. com @ JillLRobb
ANTOIN SMYTH
ANTOIN SMYTH, Blockbusters Environmental
I set up Blockbusters in 2014 along with Bernard Murchan. In the beginning we employed 6 people and now in 2017 we employ a strong team of 25. With impressive growth plans we expect to double this figure in the next two years.
Blockbusters are a leading drainage company providing bespoke solutions to both domestic and commercial clients. We service Ireland and the UK with offices in Newry, Dublin and Manchester.
Our niche is servicing both the domestic and commercial markets – there really is no job too big or too small. Our ethos is all about providing solutions – no matter what the problem our clients can come to us knowing we will find a solution.
One of our career highlights to date has been working on the Game of Thrones sets providing bespoke solutions. www. blockbustersenvironmental. co. uk
TOM STOKES
TOM STOKES, TSA Planning With over 18 years in the sector, I am the
Managing Director of TSA Planning, one of
NI’ s leading independent planning consultancies.
Having grown a business from inception in 2007 to a team of seven, my team and I offer a wide range of planning consultancy services to a broad range of client types.
I have been involved in many projects across the province in sectors such as leisure, retail, renewables, social housing, commercial and industrial for a number of high profile clients including both local and national companies.
My team and I pride ourselves on providing innovative, creative solutions to ensure successful outcomes for clients. Clients to date have included Nandos, RBS, Screwfix, B & Q, Tristan Capital and Elandi Asset Managers as well as a number of high profile leading Northern Ireland property developers and housing associations. www. tsaplanning. info @ TSAPlanning
PAUL VALLELY
PAUL VALLELY, Kukoon. com
Kukoon. com( formerly The Rug House) was set up in 2007 in a shed at Paul and Clare Vallely’ s parent’ s house. 10 years later they are based in Carnbane Industrial Estate in a 60, 000 sq ft warehouse and employ over 30 staff.
The company ships over 150,000 rugs per year to 30 countries worldwide as a result of their major online success.
In addition to their online success Kukoon. com have a busy showroom in Newry with a second store set to open in Belfast in early Spring.
Paul is delighted that the company have been recognised for their exporting success in both the DANI awards and Small Business Awards. A particular highlight has also been winning the coveted title of UTV Business Eye Award for SME of the Year. www. kukoon. com @ kukoondotcom
DAVE WARNOCK, BDO NI I was promoted to Director at the age of 33 within a Firm which employs c170 staff. I am recognised by the Partners as a key member of the Business Advisory Team and the wider BDO Northern Ireland firm.
I have a wide range of knowledge and commercial experience and I have demonstrated throughout my career that I
DAVE WARNOCK
can successfully adapt to different situations that are outside of my comfort zone. I have recently been involved in a number of high profile and successful advisory transactions.
Over the last seven years, I have also worked on a diverse range of restructuring projects and assisted in saving over 200 jobs through the use of formal appointments and advice. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family.
I also regard myself as a competitive sportsman, playing tennis regularly for a local team. www. bdoni. com @ david _ warnock81
GAVIN WOODS
GAVIN WOODS, Aurion Learning
Gavin is a consultative sales professional with over 12 years’ success in promoting learning technology solutions throughout Ireland and further afield. Working for leading Northern Ireland ed tech companies, he has acquired and developed a highly impressive portfolio of clients in the UK, Ireland and in over eight international markets.
As the Client Services Director of Aurion Learning, he champions the positive effects that engaging, effective learning content can have on an organisation and its stakeholders. Responsible for acquiring new client projects at Aurion, Gavin has made a key contribution to a 95 per cent increase in turnover and 70 per cent increase in export sales. Currently undergoing a period of sustained growth, Gavin and his team are focused on leveraging a number of significant project wins with global brands as well as UK and Ireland Central Government contacts. www. aurionlearning. com @ gavinmwoods
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