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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