IKON Programmes Manager, Kingspan Group, Ireland

"Kingspan is also a great place for allowing you to work outside of your core role, I have the opportunity to get involved in some very exciting and diverse programmes of work."

What do you enjoy most about your role? 

Working with so many people – every day is different. I manage IKON, our Global Innovation Centre, so I get to work across lots of projects from live streaming events to conferences to the day to day management of IKON. I get the opportunity to meet different people from both inside and outside the business with each event that comes through our doors. Kingspan is also a great place for allowing you to work outside of your core role, I have the opportunity to get involved in some very exciting and diverse programmes of work.

What makes you proud to work for Kingspan?

I’ve been with Kingspan since 2000. During that time, I have held many different roles in many different parts of the business. I have seen Kingspan transform into the global company it is today, while never losing focus on what’s important for people and the environment. I like the way that when businesses are acquired, the focus is on being able to give employees opportunities to expand their education and shape their own career if that’s what they want to do. I feel proud when I think about the learning opportunities I’ve been exposed to and the people I’ve been privileged to work alongside.

What professional qualities are helpful in your role?

You have to be very organised, whilst also being comfortable with last minute changes when it comes to the day to day of my role. However, there are so many different aspects to my role, personal and professional development has been key, particularly when it comes to learning from the challenges I’ve had to meet and overcoming them. To facilitate that, I did an Advanced Diploma in Life & Executive Coaching & Mentoring, I use these skills every day. I am currently completing a MSc in People Development and Organisational Change, to continue my own development opportunities and growth.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received?

It’s very important to delve into what kind of career you want, set goals, and put the right resources in place to achieve them. Have the confidence to keep working on yourself, and to accept yourself for who you are. It’s ok to be vulnerable – to accept your strengths and weaknesses in a positive light. I was very fortunate to have met amazing mentors and advisors along with friends in the business who opened up a world of opportunities, but also making me realise my personal worth.

How could someone get started in your division of the Kingspan Group?

It’s important to have an understanding of the business – how it operates, what it’s all about. Keep an eye out for what jobs are on offer, have a plan in place and apply, then once you’ve made contact stay in touch, even if you’re not successful in gaining a specific job, opportunities will come your way. Keep learning, finding out more, and never give up!

What does the future hold for Kingspan?

Kingspan is very agile, flexible, and strategic, that’s what makes it special, I have no doubt it will continue to be successful. I think Kingspan will continue to evolve in the areas of People, Innovation, Digital transformation & Planet Passionate. Specifically at IKON we have the resources to test and develop the next generation of products and digital solutions to allow us to help reduce the carbon footprint of the built environment – this work is so important, not just for our generation but for future generations. For myself, I feel very fortunate, privileged, and honoured to work for a company like Kingspan.