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Ambassador Programme

Hear from some of Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership's Ambassadors!


Ballyutoag Training - Training Ambassador

Meet Brian Megahey, one of our ambassadors at Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership.

Brian Megahey launched Ballyutoag Training in 2012, specialising in machinery operation skills training for equipment such as quads, tractors, and telehandlers. His journey into this field began through working alongside a friend who owned a franchise of an indoor experience centre, where Brian became a Land Rover qualified instructor. After his friend's business ceased trading, Brian joined the Ulster Farmers Union committee, focusing on agricultural training needs.

Inspired by his work with the Union, Brian decided to transform his passion for training into a business. As a farmer, he missed the human interaction he experienced in his previous roles. With Ballyutoag Training, he enjoys daily interactions with people from various backgrounds and regions.

Brian finds great fulfillment in sharing the knowledge he has acquired over the years through both experience and trial and error. His training business not only allows him to meet new people every day but also provides him with the opportunity to impart valuable skills and information, leaving him with a profound sense of satisfaction.

 

Dunadry Hotel - Hospitality Ambassador

Meet Gavin Magee, Duty Manager at Dunadry Hotel. He is our Hospitality Ambassador here at Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership.

Gavin Magee began his career in the hospitality sector at the age of 16, starting at Dunadry Hotel and Gardens. His passion for hospitality grew over time, leading him to pursue in-work training opportunities with Babcock. He completed his level 2 and 3 qualifications, which served as stepping stones for further development. Encouraged by Babcock, the business apprenticeship programme, Gavin embarked on supervisory training and later enrolled in Belfast Metropolitan College, where he obtained a Foundation Degree in International Hospitality Management.

Gavin finds his role at the hotel to be a perfect fit for his personality. He enjoys the daily tasks and the little touches that make a difference. Interacting with guests and seeing the joy on their faces when they visit the hotel brings him immense satisfaction. He takes pride in being there for guests during both their happiest moments and their most challenging times, such as funerals, providing comfort and support to make their experience more manageable.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Gavin's role is the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds. He believes this exposure enriches his experience and broadens his understanding of different walks of life.

For those looking to follow a similar career path, Gavin advises reaching out to the local Labour Market Partnership (LMP) for support and guidance. He emphasises the importance of seeking opportunities for skill development and progression, as well as utilising available resources to secure employment and pursue a fulfilling career.

 

GES - Manufacturing Ambassador

Meet David Moore the CEO of the GES Group who is our Manufacturing Ambassador here at Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership.

David Moore joined GES Group in 1985 and progressed to Technical Director in 1992, Managing Director in 2008 and Chief Executive in 2019. His career pathway started with an apprenticeship in Electrical & Electronic engineering and went on to attain qualifications including a HNC in Advanced Business Management Accountancy, a Degree in Business Management, and a Postgraduate Master Class in Leadership & Management.  

GES Group is an award-winning industry-leading organisation that provides power and energy solutions across a range of industries in the UK, Ireland and beyond. David would recommend the industry to others, as he has thoroughly enjoyed the interesting and exciting career opportunities at GES and performing the different functions throughout the various engineering departments and disciplines. David has guided GES Group through significant periods of growth and change, the company has doubled revenue to over £8M in the past 5 years, grown from 64 employees to 90, and will soon be celebrating 50 years in business. 

 

HSC – Health and Social Care Ambassador

Meet Carole Kirk, Head of Service for Social Care Governance Workforce Development and Training.

Carole Kirk joined the Northern Trust in 1994 as a temporary Social Work Assistant having left education at 18 with GCSE’s and a Diploma in Business and Finance. Carole had some experience in administration and retail, however she quickly enjoyed the work within the Trust and after two years she was delighted to secure a permanent position. Carole went on to complete courses within the Trust and qualified as a Social Worker in 2004. It was a move into Social Services Learning and Development in 2013 that led to her realising her dream of gaining an MSc in Professional Development in Social Work. With support from the Trust and opportunities within it, Carole continues to study and develop her skills and qualifications.

Carole currently supports and develops Social Work and Social Care staff across the organisation as the Head of Service for Social Care Governance, Workforce Improvement and Training.  She never imagined when she started in the Trust as a temporary worker that she would be here 28 years later!  Carole has thoroughly enjoyed her career in the Health Service and she couldn’t recommend joining #teamnorth highly enough.  The Trust employs approximately 12,000 people in a wide variety of roles – there really is something to suit everyone.

Hendersons – Wholesale and Retail Ambassador

Meet Aidan McIvor from Henderson Group, he is the Wholesale and Retail Ambassador at Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership.

Aidan McIvor currently holds the position of retail area manager at the Henderson Group, where he oversees multiple Spars and EuroSpars locations throughout Northern Ireland. In his role, Aidan serves as a vital link between the central office and the stores, ensuring teams are empowered to achieve optimal results and meet key performance indicators (KPIs).

His journey in retail began when he obtained his national insurance number and secured a position at his local Spar in Antrim. This initial step ignited his passion for the industry. Aidan pursued a degree in Law while working in retail, however, he soon realised that his true calling lay within the retail sector, prompting him to continue his career with the Henderson Group.

Aidan's ascent within the company was swift. Within a year, he was promoted to Team Leader, followed by roles as Assistant Manager and then Manager. To his surprise, he soon found himself in the position of area manager, a milestone he achieved at a relatively young age of 26. This rapid progression was largely fueled by the company's substantial growth during his tenure.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of Aidan's role is witnessing the career growth of staff members who, like him, started their journey as customer advisors. Many have advanced into different roles, creating a family-like atmosphere within the Henderson Group, a company deeply rooted in family values.

Another highlight for Aidan is the Henderson Group's active involvement in local communities. Over the years, the company has partnered with these communities to raise funds and awareness—a unique aspect not commonly found in retail corporations.

For those considering a similar career path, Aidan emphasises that one does not necessarily need formal qualifications to enter the retail industry. The key is to have a passion for working with people and a drive for success. Aidan believes that with these qualities combined, individuals can achieve significant success and growth within the retail sector.

 

Laurelview Equestrian Centre - Equestrian Ambassador

Meet Laurel Faloona from Laurel View Equestrian Centre. She is the Equestrian Ambassador.

Laurel Faloona serves as the Centre Manager and Senior Coach at Laurelview Equestrian Centre. Her daily responsibilities include ensuring the horses receive proper care, overseeing the smooth operation of the riding school, and maintaining the health and fitness of both horses and staff.

Laurelview Equestrian Centre attracts numerous students for competitions and professional training, with many progressing towards professional qualifications through specialized training courses.

Laurel’s passion for horses began early; she started riding lessons at age 8 and received her first pony at age 11. Despite her parents' limited knowledge of horses, Laurel’s enthusiasm led her to join the pony club, where she remained until she was 18. After leaving school, Laurel initially attended art college but quickly realized her preference for being outdoors and working with animals. She believes that her current role chose her, and she loves providing training and care for horses, a service that was scarce when she first arrived in Northern Ireland.

While the job can be stressful and busy, the positives far outweigh the negatives for Laurel, who finds great satisfaction in working with and caring for animals. For those interested in a similar career path, Laurel recommends pursuing formal training and exams through a British Horse Society Approved Yard apprenticeship programme.

 

Vyta - IT Services Ambassador

Meet Paul Boyd, the Assistant Operations Manager of Vyta Northern Ireland and the IT Services Ambassador for Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership.

Vyta Northern Ireland is a prominent IT disposal company renowned across the UK and Ireland. The sector has always fascinated Paul due to the abundance of sensitive IT data in the public domain and the lack of knowledge on proper disposal methods. Companies like Vyta play a crucial role in ensuring secure and environmentally responsible disposal of such data, contributing to repurposing and reuse initiatives.

Paul's journey within Vyta has been diverse. He began as an asset processor, responsible for collections, customer site visits, testing, data wiping, and resale. Over the years, he has progressed through various roles, culminating in his current position overseeing the day-to-day operations at Vyta. His responsibilities include managing order processing, warehouse operations, and ensuring products are prepared for resale and recycling.

 

The dynamic nature of the business means that each day presents new challenges and opportunities for Paul. The rapid evolution of technology requires the company and its employees to stay agile and adaptable. Vyta fills a vital gap in the market by providing solutions for the proper disposal of sensitive information, a service that many are unaware of.

A significant aspect of Paul's experience at Vyta is the strong camaraderie he shares with colleagues, both within and outside of work. This positive work environment is one of the highlights of his role.

For those considering a similar career path, Paul suggests undertaking courses such as ILM and waste-management. His qualifications have played a vital role in his career progression, and Vyta has been instrumental in supporting his development, ensuring he is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel within the company.

 

Woodsides - Training and Logistics Ambassador

Meet Sam, the Training and Logistics Ambassador at Antrim and Newtownabbey.

Sam’s career goal is to become a Traffic Planner. Sam started his Woodsides career as a Customs Administrator learning customs clearance in the fast-paced Woodside Global division.  After a few months he seized the opportunity to become a Trainee Traffic Planner in Woodside Motorfreight. Through his dedication and hard work both in his role and through his studies outside of work, Sam is on track to realise his dream of becoming a Traffic Planner.

Woodside Logistics Group is an award winning, accredited, multi-national transport and logistics firm with over 50 years industry experience.  From humble beginnings as a family farm with a few delivery trucks, Woodside has grown into one of the UK and Ireland’s leading road haulage and international freight forwarding companies. 

The group boasts over 630 employees across five divisions: Woodside Haulage, Woodside Distribution, Woodside Motorfreight, Woodside Tankfreight and Woodside Global, all supported by the back office and dedicated in-house fleet maintenance and warehouse teams.

 

Useful Contacts

Economic Development Team

Tel: 0300 123 4568

Email Economic Development Team