What does it mean to you and the team to win The Cork Business Man of the Year 2018?
Truly I never dreamed I would win it when I saw the standard of the people in the Category and there strengths. I am delighted for both hotels as it’s a recognition that businesses out in the rural areas can offer something special when it comes to the commercial world. It also gives both our teams a good feeling that they are part of the cork business life and that we have something worthwhile to contribute. I am delighted for the 150 people that I am working with, you simply cannot achieve anything in my business without the support and loyalty of the people around you and you genuinely have to understand that. Another aspect is what I feel it has done for the wider community of East Cork, it’s fantastic to have a non-political, honest recognition of business.
How did you and your team celebrate?
Glass of wine and Back to business, come January when business quietens down we will all come together and celebrate a good year in business and the award.
What’s next for your organisation?
We are currently planning our capital refurb for January and February 2019, renovation of 25 bedrooms and our Lighthouse Bar and Bistro. With regard to Marketing, this time of year we have lots of soul searching meetings with regard to the products we offer and how we present the Brands to our customer base.
What projects over the last 12 months are you most proud of?
One project was a our ‘Win your wedding competition’ in conjunction with Red FM.
Our 5km Road race and the €2000 raised for the National Rehab Hospital
Being President of the Midleton and Area Chamber of Commerce
Being Vice Chairperson of Original Irish Hotels of Ireland
The Sea Food and Shanty Festival in Ballycotton Village
The Walk in the Woods Project in Ladysbridge Village
How/where will you be displaying the award?
Pride of Place on our Reception Desk
Is there anything your organisation is doing that you’d like to promote at this time?
Our Samphire Social Eating Themed Events running up to News Year Eve (see attached )
What motivates you and your team?
Simply Commercial Success though and ever developing and self-appraising business.
Is there anyone you would like to thank?
The Judging Panel for having the faith in recognising our creditability in the Cork Business World.
My wife Joan for putting up with me, my daughters for the same.
Our team in both hotels and my fellow company directors, for putting up with me as well as have the faith in me to steer the businesses
The Local and National organisations that put their trust in me to move things forward.
Finally I would like to thank all our local customers friends and social media followers for all the good wishes over the last number of days its been overwhelming and humbling.
