EXTRA ISSUE 3
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF LONDONDERRY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
RYAN MCBRIDE SOCCER SIXES & GALA BALL A charitable foundation set up in memory of the late Derry City captain Ryan McBride are holding 2 events on Sunday 5 May 2019. First the Ryan McBride Soccer Sixes sponsored by O’Neills Sports takes place in the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium with legends teams from Celtic, Derry City, Czech Republic and League of Ireland – tickets are priced at £20 adult, £10 child, £50 family. Later that evening the Foundation holds its annual Gala Ball in the City Hotel with entertainment from impressionist Darren Farley and a Q&A with former Celtic and Aston Villa Stiliyan Petrov and the next Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny – there are still tickets/tables available priced at £60pp which includes drinks reception & 3 course meal - dress code shirt/tie/jacket. For further information/tickets please see the Foundation website www. mcbride5foundation.com or email info@mcbride5foundation.com
APPRENTICESHIPS HAVE A LOT TO OFFER YOUNG PEOPLE AND LOCAL BUSINESSES ‘Get Paid, Get Qualified, Get Ahead’ – the slogan for Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Apprenticeship campaign really says it all. Having an apprentice is a win-win situation for both a business and a young person. The Council has developed the campaign in partnership with North West Regional College, Careers Service and local private training organisations to put apprenticeships back where they belong – at the heart of the education and training system. The benefits for businesses are manifold. Apprenticeships give employees the training and qualifications they need to do the job and meet the needs of the business. They make the recruitment process simpler and more affordable, create a motivated and loyal workforce, can reduce skills shortages, address skills gaps and ultimately increase productivity. Having apprentices can create a motivated and loyal workforce helping identify managers and leaders of the future and it can help equip a workforce with practical job specific skills and qualifications that a business needs now and in the future. Charlene Gormley, HLA Accounts Technician, Fleming-Agri Manufacturing
Jenny Wood, currently completing NVQ Customer Service Apprenticeship, BT
Likewise, the Apprentice will benefit hugely through gaining an industry recognised qualification and work experience simultaneously, earning whilst they are learning Highlighting the importance of apprenticeship programmes in the Council area, Tina Gillespie, Skills Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council said: “The promotion of apprenticeships is a key element of the education and skills outcome set out in the Council’s Strategic Growth Plan that encourages young people to look at vocational options for training in their chosen profession through on-the-job training, study, an industry-recognised qualification and earning a wage.” To find out more about employing an apprentice visit www.getapprenticeships.me
34m Steel Truss Installed at Plymouth Cross On Thursday 28th March we started to take delivery of the largest piece of steel on the Plymouth Cross project, transported many miles across country. Designed by Lyons O’Neill Structural Engineers, it was transported 140miles from Salisbury to our site in Plymouth City Centre. The southern infill Truss is formed from different members: Top and Bottom chords: 356 x 368 x 202 UC sections. Diagonal members: 305 x 305 x 158 UC sections. Fabricated by MGP Steel, the Truss was broken into 6 sections to allow it to be transported to site and erected. The pieces ranged in size from 3.4t to 5.6t and were trial fitted at the steel yard to ensure the close tolerance holes lined up. Install took 3 days and involved doing up 1376 big bolts. The span across 34m of live Argos building required meticulous planning. To ensure a safe and convenient install, avoiding any required works or access in Argos’ building, a temporary works solution was devised. This temporary works solution was created by BW Murray, Structural & Civil Engineer Design. This used the existing columns as a lever point, hanging the truss off the existing building until install was completed. The new Truss supports 4 storeys of new residential accommodation which tie back to the existing building.
3 Housing Scheme Handovers In the month of March, EHA handed over 3 schemes in Belfast, Lisburn and Derriaghy. A total of 21 homes were handed over completing the projects at Springfield Road, Belfast and Ballynahinch Road, Lisburn. These social housing schemes provide 110 much needed new homes for local families in Belfast and Lisburn. Huntingdon Hill, a private residential collection of 46 family homes in Derriaghy has now sold out. The O’Hare family were delighted to get keys to their brand new home last month and settle into the neighbourhood. The final moving days for the last residents will take place in April 2019.
New premises wanted! Disability Action’s North West Office, currently based in Strand Road, are looking for office space to rent (approximately 1,000-1,500 sq ft.) Premises needs to be accessible to people with disabilities and having parking facilities. Please contact Maria on 02871 360811 or email mariahippsley@disabilityaction.org
ULSTER BANK FEMALE ENTREPRENEURSHIP DINNER On the 20th March, Ulster Bank held a dinner centered on female entrepreneurship, bringing together experts, customers, stakeholders, politicians and media to discuss the recent Rose Review findings and Ulster Bank’s new Crowdfunding partnership, Back Her Business. The conversation brought to life: • • • • • • •
Women make up 33% of entrepreneurs in the UK Achieving parity in start up rates could generate an additional £250bn to the UK economy Diversity inclusion doesn’t only make sense commercially, it is fundamentally the right thing to do Currently 1p in every £1 of VC funding goes to female led businesses Networks cannot be under estimated Role models, especially ‘attainable’ ones are key Fear of failure in NI is higher than other parts of the UK
Chaired by Lynsey Cunningham, Regional Director for Entreprenership at Ulster Bank, guests included; Roseann Kelly, CEO Women in Business NI, John Healy, Paula Bradshaw MLA, President of the NI Chamber, Ingrid Devin, Head of DWEN, Michael McQuillan, CEO Enterprise NI and Entrepreneurs Ava Brown and Sinead Sharkey. If you are interested in finding out more about how Ulster Bank is supporting female entrepreneurs, please contact BelfastAccelerator@ulsterbank.com
J.C. HALLIDAY & SONS – MULTI - AWARD WINNERS! As an official Citroën dealership based in Eglinton, local family business J.C HALLIDAY & SONS pride themselves on offering a first-class experience designed to meet all your needs and expectations. The company has recently won the prestigious ‘Outstanding Performance’ Award for the third year running, which is totally unprecedented! The company has a winning culture – receiving 10 top awards in the last 3 years! Our dedicated Sales and Aftercare team pride themselves in looking after you and your vehicle, putting Customer Satisfaction at the core of everything we do. Pictured is Andrew Miller (centre) Dealer Principal with his sales team and their numerous awards.
Commenting on the accolade, Andrew Miller, Dealer Principal said: “We are delighted to have won ‘Outstanding Performance’ for the third year in a row, this has never been achieved before and shows our teams true commitment to Excellence in all we do, including delighting our customer and ensuring they have the best possible experience. We are honoured to represent 2 fantastic French brands Citroen and DS, offering our customer fantastic deals and 1st class customer experience. J.C. Halliday & Sons have a great team of people behind it across all departments, without them we simply wouldn’t be what we are today and a very big thank you to our customers without them this would not be possible!”
NWRC wins prestigious Beacon award North West Regional College (NWRC) has scooped a prestigious national education award, recognising the outstanding contribution made by its innovative and unique Careers Academy to the lives of learners in the region. NWRC was the only College in Northern Ireland to win a coveted Association of College’s Beacon Award, picking up the accolade for Careers Education and Guidance, at a Gala ceremony in London. The Beacon Awards celebrate the best and most innovative practice among UK further education colleges, rewarding those that go above and beyond in providing high-quality technical and professional education. Finneen Bradley, Manager of NWRC’s Careers Academy, said she was delighted to pick up the gong, adding that it underpinned the outstanding standard of education and training that is being delivered across all five campuses of North West Regional College. She said: “The work my team and I undertake is changing and enhancing lives, not only in our college but in our community on a daily basis. “We believe not only in delivering the best education at NWRC, but we are passionate about building the careers and futures of our young people.” Leo Murphy, Principal and Chief Executive of NWRC said: “To become a Beacon College is an outstanding accolade, not only for NWRC, but for the city and region.” The Careers Academy within NWRC runs a hugely successful careers programme focussed on employability, enterprise and enrichment. In their citation, assessors for the awards recognised NWRC’s dedicated Careers Academy saying: “The whole sector across the UK and beyond can learn from your hard and intelligent work to achieve impressive and full integration of careers education into the curriculum.”
Joule Group International Collaboration in Action! Last week, the Joule Group team successfully submitted a Concept Design submission to a key Kuwaiti client. The submission was achieved in a record time of 2 weeks and included bringing a new member of our team from Derry to Dubai. Louise Larkin, pictured, has only been with Joule Group for a few weeks and already has her first taste of learning new fire codes from different countries. Thanks goes out to Louise and the rest of the team for getting out in front!
NEW Manchester service ready for take off! Loganair’s first inaugural flight to Manchester is scheduled to depart on May, 24th 2019. This is fantastic news for the North West as it provides direct connectivity to one of the main hubs in the North of England and creates opportunities for onward connectivity to international destinations via Manchester International Airport. Airport Manager at City of Derry Airport, Charlene Shongo commented: “This is very welcome news for both the airport and the wider North West region. Loganair’s new Manchester service will allow our customers to travel direct from City of Derry Airport to Manchester. Loganair are working with a number of airline partners to strengthen City of Derry Airport’s connection and facilitate onward travel, connecting the City and region to the rest of the world.” The new service operated by Loganair will be available daily with fare prices starting from just £39.99pp each way. Loganair’s all-inclusive fares include 20kg hold baggage and 6kg hand luggage and complimentary refreshments on board. Loganair also offer discounts on child fares and frequent flyers can benefit from the Clan Loganair loyalty programme. Flights from City of Derry Airport to Manchester are on sale now, visit www.cityofderryairport.com for more info. Charlene Shongo concluded by stating: “City of Derry Airport is a vital piece of transport infrastructure and has become the airport of choice for the North West, offering both convenience and excellent customer service. I would encourage all travellers within the local catchment to think about flight options from their local airport when making future travel arrangements, asking air passengers to ‘Think Local and Choose CoDA’ whenever they can. We have fantastic facilities on our doorstep, and it is essential that everyone takes advantage of their local airport for their travel plans when possible.” For more information on Loganair’s NEW service from City of Derry Airport to Manchester, visit www. cityofderryairport.com.
Fantastic Fleadh Cheoil Dhoire boost for City Derry will welcome an influx of visitors in May, here to participate in and enjoy Fleadh Cheoil Dhoire 2019, the County Fleadh. Hosted by CCÉ Baile na gCailleach, it will run from May 23 to 27, bringing the very best Traditional Irish music, dance and song into the heart of our city. As well as concerts, céilίs, and public Trad sessions, featuring some of Ireland’s finest musicians, more than 50 Traditional Irish arts competitions will take place in Coláiste Bhríde / St Brigid’s College. Speaking to CONNECTED, Ollie Green, Fleadh Chairperson said: “Supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council and Studio 2 Arts’ Centre, Fleadh Cheoil Dhoire 2019 will see musicians, singers, dancers, storytellers and Gaeilgeoirí, from all corners of the county and beyond, their families and friends, staying in Derry for up to four days. Although not on the scale of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2013, which benefitted the City’s economy to an estimated tune of £42 million, Fleadh Cheoil Dhoire will undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost to our local economy. “We would, therefore, encourage café, restaurant, bar and hotel owners, accommodation providers and Derry’s many retailers to become mutually beneficial Friends of the Fleadh. Help us make Fleadh Cheoil Dhoire 2019 the most wonderful, inclusive celebration possible. Help us build on its success. Help us aspire towards greater future Fleadh possibilities,” said Mr Green. Keep Fleadh up-to-date on Facebook (Fleadh Cheoil Dhoire 2019); Twitter (@FleadhDhoire); Instagram (fleadhcheoildhoire) and Snapchat (@fleadhdhoire). Email: dhoirefleadh2019@gscaderry.com and Telephone: 028 7135 8750.
HONORARY DEGREE FOR CONGRESSMAN NEAL Congressman Richard Neal has been awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws by Ulster University for his outstanding contribution to peace and conflict resolution across the island of Ireland and for profiling Irish concerns throughout his Congressional career. The degree was conferred upon him by Vice-Chancellor and President of Ulster University, Professor Paddy Nixon at a ceremony attended by Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi. As a supporter of the University’s John Hume and Thomas P O’Neill Chair in Peace at the Magee campus and its work since 2015, Congressman Neal addressed students and staff to announce the development of Ulster University’s Hume O’Neill Washington Lecture Series, an annual lecture by an internationally-renowned conflict resolution expert, the first of which will be held during the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Washington in 2020. Vice-Chancellor and President of Ulster University, Professor Paddy Nixon said; “Congressman Richard Neal is today recognised and honoured by the university community for his work as a champion of inclusivity, peace and prosperity across the island of Ireland. “Congressman Neal’s maternal grandparents were from Northern Ireland and throughout his political career he has remained a steadfast and unwavering supporter of peacebuilding efforts here. He was an early supporter of the establishment of the John Hume and Thomas P O’Neill Chair in Peace and has today launched the Ulster University Hume O’Neill Washington Lecture Series as he continues to support the university’s expertise in peace and conflict resolution.”
invest ni Access to Finance Event details
Innovation Centre, Derry-Londonderry, 02 May, 08:3010:30 Whether starting up or scaling up, all businesses with ambitions to grow need access to funding. Evidence suggests businesses using external finance are more likely to achieve their growth plans, so why then do so many businesses say they would rather forgo growth than take on external finance? This event, hosted by Invest NI, British Business Bank and InterTradeIreland, seeks to address this reluctance and encourage businesses and their advisors to consider the alternative finance options outside of traditional bank funding. Improving your knowledge and understanding of these options is an essential first step. Whether you are a small business or a trusted advisor we invite you to come along to: • hear first-hand from businesses who have benefited from using alternative sources of finance and what it has enabled them to achieve • improve your awareness of the range of debt and equity options available in the marketplace • build your knowledge to help identify whether debt, equity or a combination of both is best suited to the needs of the business • know what funding support and information initiatives are available to guide and support businesses through the growth journey Register at https://myini.investni.com/events/upcoming-events/
Doherty Pension & Investment Consultancy Ltd have been selected as one of 3 finalists in this year’s Ulster University Excellence Awards for the Business Partnership Category for SMEs. The Awards celebrate outstanding placement partnerships that have had a significant impact on Ulster University students. Doherty PIC Ltd have been working in partnership with the Ulster University since 2017 recruiting placement students through their Professional Experience Programme (PEP), a 6 months post graduate placement that allows the students to learn new skills while attaining a post graduate qualification in Professional Practice.
Photograph left to right: Scott Coates, UU Graduate and Group Pensions Administrator at Doherty PIC Ltd, Lorraine Rodgers HR & Business Support Manager Doherty PIC Ltd, Danielle Ellis UU Graduate and Service Delivery Coordinator, Colleen Noade UU Graduate and Service Delivery Coordinator
Lorraine Rodgers, HR & Business Support Manager at Doherty PIC Ltd has said of the programme, “The PEP created the perfect opportunity to acquire new talent into the industry and develop a role for the individuals in tandem with their academic qualification. We have taken on three students through the Ulster University since 2017 and they have gone from knowing relatively little about financial services to becoming fully functional members of the team, getting involved in projects, staff meetings, integrating and networking within the industry.”
As a direct result of the relationship, Dohertys were able to improve efficiencies and expand two areas of the business and all three students have been offered permanent roles within the Company. Winners will be announced at a black-tie gala dinner on Wednesday 8 May 2019 in St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast.
Rainbow Communications dials in a new era after 20 years of growth and expansion More than two decades since the business was established, Rainbow Communications has evolved as a major force in telecoms innovation, servicing more than 10,000 business customers. With a specialist team of more than 100 and an annual turnover exceeding £14 million, Rainbow specialises in business mobiles, connectivity, phone systems, cloud technologies, IT and network security, and more. “For more than two decades, we’ve worked in partnership with business, developing solutions to meet their specific needs, enabling them to work smarter, be more efficient, save money and grow. Rainbow’s Sales & Marketing Director, Stuart Carson. “The technology available right now, provides companies large and small with better flexibility, better value for money and a future-proofed investment that leaves little to worry about – meaning businesses can focus on growing and achieving their goals.” “For instance, the digitisation of the telecommunications sector – and indeed the wider world – is reshaping the way everyone does business and while this can present challenges, we have built our success by having the right experience to provide cut-through, innovative solutions that transform business. Companies who embrace new technologies are not only generating more satisfied customers, they are reducing costs, call volumes, creating data and insights which can be used to strengthen performance.” “The next 20 years will be very exciting for the communications industry and we look forward to maintaining our position at the vanguard of innovation and customer service.
firmus energy creates a snapshot of 2019 for future generations Thornhill College pupils have created a time capsule to mark the successful completion of firmus energy’s River Foyle crossing with the help of the Northern Ireland Utility Regulator. Local natural gas company, firmus energy, facilitated the time capsule project alongside contractors, Kier, to offer children of tomorrow a snapshot of life today. Items in the capsule represent life, community and culture in 2019. Pupils added a smartphone for culture, a daily newspaper to highlight the community aspect, a record of today’s current affairs, a school uniform, a school brochure and school medal. Commenting on the initiative, Michael Scott, Managing Director at firmus energy said: “It’s an exciting prospect to think we are making history for future generations to look back and see what the world was like fifty years ago. I was delighted that firmus energy was involved in capturing society today with Thornhill College.” firmus energy has an ongoing relationship with Thornhill College working closely with the school to provide career guidance surrounding roles in Science, Technology and Maths (STEM) fields. The pupils were also invited to visit the ‘Old Thornhill College Site’ to learn about firmus energy’s Foyle River Crossing project. The Utility Regulator’s ,Chief Executive, Jenny Pyper added, “It was great to join Thornhill College, firmus energy and Kier to mark this special occasion. I’m sure Thornhill pupils fifty years from now will be fascinated to learn how different life was in 2019. The project really highlighted the importance of memorabilia of a strong community which will be something future generations will appreciate for years to come.” The Head Girl of Thornhill College, said, “We were all present when the items were being added into the capsule and as it was lowered into the ground. It’s crazy to think that in fifty years future pupils of Thornhill, potentially our children and grandchildren will open this capsule. I hope what we have placed inside is able to give future generations an understanding of life at Thornhill in 2019.” The River Foyle project was delivered with firmus energy, Kier Group and McCormack Drilling.
DuPont takes on the Big Shops’ Showdown for Cancer Focus NI Staff at DuPont swapped Maydown for Limavady earlier this month, when their team took over the Cancer Focus NI charity shop on Connell Street as part of Business in the Community’s ‘Big Shops’ Showdown’ fundraising initiative. As part of the exciting Apprentice-style challenge, companies across Northern Ireland took over the running of a Cancer Focus NI shop for the day, and competed against each other to raise as much cash as possible for the charity. DuPont organised coffee mornings, a quiz, as well as other fundraising activities at the Limavady shop to raise £7,270 in total for Cancer Focus NI during the fundraiser. Helena McGuinness from DuPont, said, “We’re absolutely delighted to have raised so much for Cancer Focus NI, and would like to say a massive thanks to everyone who supported us during the Big Shops’ Showdown.”
BIG SHOPS’ SHOWDOWN: (L-R Standing) Karen Dornan, Janine Geddes, Helena McGuinness, and Anita Simpson from DuPont are joined by Louise Greer (front-centre) from Cancer Focus NI as part of Business in the Community’s ‘Big Shops’ Showdown’ fundraising initiative. The Big Shops’ Showdown saw companies across Northern Ireland take over the running of a Cancer Focus shop for the day, and compete against each other to raise as much cash as possible. Maydown-based DuPont organised coffee mornings, a quiz, as well as other fundraising activities at the Cancer Focus NI Limavady shop to raise £7,270 in total for the charity.
“We all know someone who has been affected by cancer, which is why we’re so grateful to the local community for getting behind us and raising money for such a worthy cause. Every penny raised will stay in Northern Ireland and go towards making life better for those going through the most difficult of times.” Cancer Focus NI has been caring for and supporting cancer patients and their families for the last 50 years. The charity also funds pioneering cancer research at Queen’s University Belfast, advocates for better health policies, and works in the community to help people lower their risk of cancer. Anyone who has any concerns or has been affected by cancer can call the Cancer Focus NI free information and advice NurseLine on 0800 783 3339 and speak to a specialist cancer nurse.
Institute of Guidance Counsellor (IGC) National Conference at Letterkenny Institute of Technology Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) hosted the Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC) National Conference at the Letterkenny campus on Friday 5 and Saturday 6 April. The event was co-ordinated at LYIT in conjunction with the Donegal IGC Branch with over 300 Guidance Counsellors, colleges and university exhibitors from across the country in attendance at the prestigious national event. The event included the ‘Great Guidance Debate’ on Friday 5 April with leading lights from the education sector forming the panel on the night. The panellists included: • • • • • • • •
Mr. Billy Bennett Vice President, Academic Affairs & Registrar, LYIT Mr. Geoffrey Browne, President National Parents’ Council, Post-Primary Ms. Beatrice Dooley, President, IGC Ms. Michelle English, JCT Wellbeing Team Mr. Vinny McGroary, Area Training Manager, Donegal ETB Mr. Brian Mooney, Guidance Counsellor and Irish Times Columnist Ms. Maria Walsh, SOLAS Communications Unit Ms. Emma O’Kelly, Education Correspondent, RTÉ
On Saturday 6 April, Joe McHugh, T.D. Minister for Education and Skills addressed the plenary session with Paul Hannigan, President of LYIT also addressing the large audience in attendance. The keynote address during the plenary session was delivered by Nikki Bradley, The Motivation Factory. The conference theme was ‘Valuing Uniqueness, Realising Potential’ and Paul Hannigan, President of LYIT delivered a rousing speech on the uniqueness of Donegal and how “LYIT continues to realise its potential by connecting with Guidance Counsellors and industry leaders to develop programmes that meet the needs of students and industry partners.” The event concluded with a banquet in the Mount Errigal Hotel on Saturday 6 April.
Derry Youth & Community Workshop was established in 1978 and is a registered charity currently delivering Training For Success, ApprenticeshipsNI, Job Assist (Lemis Northwest) Engage (Learning North West) and SEEDS. (16-24) We address social problems, improve communities and people’s quality of life and help our clients who traditionally find it hard to enter the labour market secure employment and or training. Our social mission is at the heart of everything we do and we support local businesses by providing mentoring, support, and training that matches the needs of employers for the 21st century. The pre-employment in Care is a 6 week programme that includes vocational training, interview preparation and the opportunity to complete The Care Certificate which provides introductory skills, knowledge and behaviours to provide compassionate, safe and high quality care and support with confidence. The programme will also provide information, advice and guidance in relation to the financial implications of entering employment and a guaranteed interview with our partners; Praxis Care and Strabane District Caring. The Care Certificate: • • • • • • •
applies across the health and social care sectors; links to competences (National Occupational Standards) and units in qualifications; covers what is required in caring; will equip workers with the fundamental skills they need to provide quality care; and gives them a basis from which they can develop their knowledge and skills as their career progresses. is portable between sectors and organisations is an assessment of both knowledge and competence.
For more information and registration contact: Job Assist Centre 5 Butcher Street 028 7130 8638 / 028 7126 5152 Derry Youth & Community Workshop 6 Society Street 028 7126 8891 ASK FOR MARY OR SHAUNA Marble Hill will be featuring in 2019’s Golf Chic, the magazine of the Ladies European Golf Tour. Marble Hill will be the only Irish health/ skincare company featuring on Sky’s website (4.5 million viewers) for the entire summer, culminating in the Solheim Cup in September. The informational article in Golf Chic features top golfing tips to extend and increase golfing performance from orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Henry McGee FRCSEdOrth, and presents Marble Hill’s sports orientated products, CannaFlex Hemp Massage Oil and PediSalve for management of arthritis and footcare for keen golfers and all who have joint and muscle concerns. For more intormation on Marble Hill products visit www. marblehillonline.com
Jobs Fairy at Award Winning Shandon Spa Join Team Shandon today, we are looking for a qualified Spa Therapist to provide professional and engaging wellness therapies and massage treatments to our clients. Full time or part time permanent role delivering a variety of spa services (body treatments, massages, facials, waxing and manicure/pedicure) in a safe and comfortable manner Required Education, Skills and Qualifications Deliver a variety of spa services (body treatments, massages, facials, waxing and manicure/pedicure) in a safe and comfortable manner Maintain equipment and inventory of products Keep documentation and maintain clients files Keep a clean and stocked room Acknowledge and respond to relevant customer queries, needs and expectations Suggest and promote retail products or additional services Uphold hygiene standards and follow health and safety regulations Cooperate with and report on administration on any arising issues Apply best practices and be up to date with market trends Requirements 1 to 2 years proven work experience as a Spa therapist Hands on experience in massage techniques, manicures, pedicures, waxing and face/body therapies Excellent knowledge of English language Communication and customer service skills Positive attitude ITEC CIBTAC certification required Benefits Employee discounts in Spa, Hair Salon & Hotel Services Free Leisure Club Membership Staff Meals included in package Professional training & development plans Apply with cover letter to: info@shandonhotelspa.com
Issue 9 Out Now! Read oNline on the chamber website www.londonderrychamber.co.uk/ connected-mag
Contact Media Digital Advertising We have two screens in 30 taxis throughout the city and in 4 different business outlets - The Traditional Turkish Barber Shop on Spencer Road, Hasan’s Turkish Barber Shop on Central Drive, Northside Shopping Centre, and Brendan’s Takeaway on Laburnum Terrace. We are also expanding into Limavady at the 24 hours service station and the 24 hour gym in Derry. With our success of Contact Media we are starting a delivery app called Anita Delivery which we hope to have up and running by July.
Roe Park Resort celebrates a night of success at Irish Hotel Awards The Roe Park Resort, Limavady has been crowned Ulster’s ‘Best Family Hotel’ at the Irish Hotel Awards, winning gold for the third consecutive year having been named ‘Golf Hotel of the Year’ in 2017 and 2018. The 4-star resort fought off fierce competition to pick up the prestigious award at a gala ceremony in Galway. The Irish Hotel Awards recognise outstanding excellence in the industry with an elite panel of judges assessing customer experience, facilities and services. The Resort has investing significantly in its facilities over the last year. It recently unveiled a £500,000 renovation of its main function room, expanding its offering to the wedding trade and refurbished its family suites which are now amongst the largest in Northern Ireland. Congratulating Roe Park on its recent success, Irish Hotel Awards Programme Director, Nicci Smith said, “There is a big difference between a good hotel and a memorable hotel and Roe Park Resort delivers a truly exceptional, unforgettable experience for guests. It is without a doubt the people who make Irish hospitality what it is through their passion, commitment and dedication. “This passion is evident in visitor figures to Ireland for the early part of the year which show a 7% increase in overseas arrivals. I have no doubt that this is due to the efforts of hospitality professionals across the island of Ireland and we are delighted to celebrate those who have gone above and beyond to achieve excellence in their field. Congratulations to the team at Roe Park – a very worthy and much-deserved winner.” Sinead McNicholl, Sales and Marketing Manager of the Roe Park Resort added, “We are delighted to be named Best Family Hotel in Ulster, acknowledging our commitment to maintaining a high standard of service across all aspects of the resort - from our golf experiences and dining, to our spa and leisure facilities and bedrooms. The staff at Roe Park strive for the best results possible in every area of the hotel, so this award reinforces their hard work and dedication. “As an added offering for families, we also have an autism-friendly room for guests to stay in. The facilities are designed to include special lighting, a sensory area plus dine-in room facilities, our staff have also undergone training to help interact with guests with autism and other additional needs.”
Jazz Festival at The City Hotel The City Hotel is preparing for one of the biggest weekends in the Derry calendar this May Bank Holiday with the 2019 Derry Jazz Festival. The eagerly awaited annual event promises a weekend of top class entertainment with a variety of Jazz, swing and big band music from around the world taking to the stage throughout the weekend for free events in our newly refurbished lobby. Join us on our 5 day Jazz trail journey, kicking off on Thursday evening with Harry Connolly Band and Friends, setting the tone for the remainder of this eagerly anticipated weekend. Our line up continues to entertain throughout Friday evening with Paddy Sherlock and les Swinging Lovers, the perfect backtrack to our Friday Tapas served from 5pm. Saturday showcases an assortment of all things jazz from the Jumpin Up, the Mindbenders and The Revolutionaries. Start Sunday off right and join us for lunch whilst enjoying the sound of jazz rhythms throughout the afternoon with an array of talented musicians, with top acts such as Lee Hedley Band and the Roaring Forties. Why not make an evening of it and treat yourself to dinner in Thompson’s restaurant. End the Bank Holiday weekend with our Monday Jazz offer of Dinner in Thompson’s restaurant, with free events in our lobby throughout the afternoon bed and breakfast for 2 people sharing from £119- limited availability. For further information, contact City Hotel: 02871365800
Discover tender success
Discover what’s possible for your business through our Go-2-Tender workshops. Various dates and locations available across the island. Book Now €100 / £85
intertradeireland.com
Does your SME need the right support to tender successfully for public sector contracts?
Tender Worksh o dates n p o availab w le!
InterTradeIreland’s Go-2-Tender programme gives SMEs the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills to to tender successfully for public sector contracts in their own jurisdictions and on a cross-border basis. How to get your share of the €12bn/£10.6bn all-island Public Procurement market Each workshop is based over two days, giving SMEs the necessary information and skills to bid successfully for public sector contracts across the island of Ireland. With training from experienced bid specialists, participants will gain insights and practical advice, as well as benefitting from a half day of tailored mentoring support. Eligible participants can also apply for up to two additional days of mentoring from an experienced consultant.
Mentoring support may include assistance to:
Eligibility Criteria Classified as an SME
• Source and respond to public sector opportunities
Active within the Manufacturing and Tradable Services sectors
• Prepare a winning proposal
Able to demonstrate export potential
• Respond to live tenders
Have less than 30% turnover in the opposite jurisdiction
• Scope markets and competitors • Form a Consortia/Joint Venture
Able to demonstrate management commitment to the public tendering market Able to demonstrate product and company competitiveness
Book online now at
Have a proven track record in your home market
www.intertradeireland.com/ go-2-tender
Have an identifiable crossborder market opportunity
Cost €100/£85
Have the capacity to service any opportunity that may arise
To book on to any of our events, please contact the Chamber Office on 028 7126 2379