Author: Tina Calder

From Care Home To The Boardroom: Harry Robinson’s Journey With Boardroom Apprentice

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By Zahra Baz

Childhood experience of being in the care system has played an important role in the career path for Harry Robinson, giving him a strong desire to give back to his local community.

Currently employed as Head of School at Belfast Metropolitan College, Harry has spent 20 years working in further education helping to provide opportunities for those facing barriers to education.

A passionate advocate for education and lifelong learning, last year the Belfast native took another important step on his own journey from the care home to the boardroom by applying for the Boardroom Apprentice programme. 

It is Harry’s hope that in sharing his own experience he may encourage others who have had similar challenges to do the same.

He explained: “Before applying, I had spoken to a few colleagues that had taken part in previous years and they were very enthusiastic about their experience of Boardroom Apprentice, which got me interested in finding out more.

“When I saw what was involved in the programme, I knew that I wanted to apply for both professional and personal reasons. Professionally, I knew that the experience gained from Boardroom Apprentice would help me to develop skills and confidence. Personally, I’ve always wanted to be able to contribute to Northern Ireland’s society in areas that are important to me.

“I could tell board work was the way forward and the best way for me to achieve this, but I was conscious that while I have relevant work based experience, I didn’t have any direct experience at board level.”

Created in 2017 by Eileen Mullan, the Boardroom Apprentice offers a unique opportunity spanning over the course of a year. The programme provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals interested in serving on public or third sector boards to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills.

By blending board training, personal growth, and practical placements, participants are offered an exciting and transformative journey, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to thrive on a board.

During his Boardroom Apprentice experience, the 51-year-old was placed with the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, based in central Belfast; a non-departmental public body that works to promote and enforce equality laws in Northern Ireland.

“When applying for Boardroom Apprentice you get the opportunity to list three potential boards that you’re interested in. I was particularly keen to be matched with the Equality Commission and was absolutely delighted to be placed there.”

Despite knowing that he wanted to be with the Equality Commission board, Harry reiterated the importance of having your ‘why’ as he found it to fuel his drive and commitment throughout the programme.

He explained: “It’s really important to understand why you want to take part in Boardroom Apprentice and to understand that it will involve hard work and dedication. 

“It’s really important to pick a host board that sits well with your own interests and values.”

After reflecting on his Boardroom Apprentice experience over the last year, Harry felt that working alongside like minded individuals on the Equality Commission board was invaluable to his personal and professional development.

“I have learnt an enormous amount about being part of an effective boardroom from being placed with the Equality Commission” he said.

“During the past year as a Boardroom Apprentice I have been given the opportunity to attend board and committee meetings, seeing first hand what it really meant to be within the boardroom environment. I’ve also been able to attend events and work as a partner to support the work of the Equality Commission.

“There has been so much that I’ve been able to take away from my time in the boardroom, however the biggest lesson I’ve learnt from this is to be supportive but to not shy away from asking the difficult questions.

“It’s been an incredible experience.”

Acknowledging the significance of equipping aspiring board members with the necessary tools, the Boardroom Apprentice places great value on delivering formal training and support. With a strong emphasis on upskilling, the programme recognises that continuous learning is key to personal and professional growth. 

As part of the programme, each participant is required to actively engage in a series of structured learning days meticulously designed to enhance skills and broaden knowledge; empowering individuals to excel and flourish in their board service aspirations.

“Honestly, the knowledge and experiences that I have gained from the learning days alongside being a member of a host board exceeded my expectations, and helped me to develop skills that I’m now able to use in my current leadership role.

“There are a lot of personal skills that are related to becoming an effective board member that you get the opportunity to practise in a safe environment. 

“The peer-to-peer learning is an important aspect of the programme and I learnt a great deal from those around me.”

As the programme unfolded, Harry often found himself surprised by unexpected learnings.

“The biggest surprise for me was what I gained from being part of a Boardroom Apprentice team overall. I’ve met some fantastic people who have been hugely supportive of one another throughout the programme.

“It’s been a great opportunity to meet incredible people and engage with so many like minded individuals.

“Although, there is a lot more to being a board member than I had previously thought. I’ve really been struck by the passion and dedication of those that give their time to service on boards, and to support the work of Eileen and the other Boardroom Apprentice participants.

For those considering applying to this year’s Boardroom Apprentice, Harry offers some words of encouragement and support: “It’s easy to think of a boardroom and think that you don’t belong there, but this programme is about challenging that and breaking down barriers.

“I urge everyone to simply go for it – we all suffer from a degree of imposter syndrome but don’t let that stand in your way.

“Taking part in Boardroom Apprentice has been the most engaging and rewarding programme that I’ve had the pleasure to take part in. Not only has it greatly improved my understanding of the boardroom and what it takes to be an effective board member, but I’m much more likely to voice my opinion or to ask a challenging question than I was before and being able to see that growth within myself is invaluable.”

Applications for the 2023/2024 Boardroom Apprentice programme open on Monday June 5 and close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Boardroom Apprentice Paving The Way For Change

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95% Agree Programme Has Improved Diversity Across Boards

The 2023 applications now open for this year’s Boardroom Apprentice, marking the programme’s seventh year of enabling individuals from all backgrounds, abilities and ages the opportunity to learn and gain experience.

Having already helped 277 people turn their dream of sitting on a board into a reality, there is no time like the present to get involved and see your future be altered with the help of the scheme.

The 12 month-long scheme allows participants to immerse themselves in the world of boardrooms and decision making, all while gaining invaluable skills that translate to both their personal and professional lives.

Eileen Mullan, Boardroom Apprentice founder, said: “Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift. You get the programme as a gift with the expectation that you give it back. 

“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”

Boards from throughout Northern Ireland have taken part in the scheme since it first began in 2017, including the likes of Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Northern Ireland Office, Department For The Economy and many more. 

A recent impact study by independent consultant Dr Tony Macaulay found 100% of all 59 participating host boards from the 2021 programme were satisfied or very satisfied with their Boardroom Apprentice(s).

Similarly, 92% rated the overall credibility of the programme as high or very high, with 98% saying they were likely or very likely to recommend the Boardroom Apprentice Programme to other Boards.

The primary aim of Boardroom Apprentice is to enable diversity and inclusion in our boardrooms. Encouraging everyone, regardless of their background, past career or experience, to get involved.

The impact study identified that 92% of host boards agreed or strongly agreed that the programme is delivering on its vision of bridging the gap between aspiration and reality for aspiring Board Members.

Previous Boardroom Apprentice Alex Deonarine explained that the opportunity was one in which she could not only achieve her own goals of sitting on a board, but inspire others who feel underrepresented in the industry to get involved too.

She said: “If you’ve never seen anyone “like you” on a board before, be the first one. You will never regret it – you will only treasure each and every experience on this journey.”

Duane Farrell, CEO of Relate NI, one of the host boards involved in Boardroom Apprentice, believes the scheme is a great first step for individuals aiming for a career in the public or third sector.

He said: “The programme itself is an amazing opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed to step into these important governance roles.”

Boardroom Apprentice also prides itself on running a spectacular support system for those taking part in the programme, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and comfortable in their new role.

Upon being assigned a host board, apprentices are paired with a Board Buddy who aids with their progression throughout the twelve-month experience, as well as being allocated learning days and further assistance.

Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland CEO, Brenda McMullan explained that the wealth of support comes from a variety of different sources during the year-long programme.

She said: “Your host board, your boardroom buddy, Eileen Mullan and all the wonderful guest speakers are ready to give you their all.”

Anyone interested in applying for Boardroom Apprentice can do so now, with applications closing at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Get Hosed Down: National Car Wash Set To Take Place This Weekend For The Fire Fighters Charity

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Make a splash at your local fire station!

Washing the car is far from anybody’s favourite job, so take the hassle out of it and head down to your local fire station for the National Car Wash.

On Saturday, June 10, trainee firefighters from NIFRS will be on hand to make your car sparkle, with all donations received contributing towards The Fire Fighters Charity, a non-profit who provide support and rehabilitation to the fire and rescue community.

Hosted across the United Kingdom, Northern Irish locals can take their car to the NIFRS Learning & Development Centre, Boucher Crescent in the heart of Belfast to be washed, benefitting from the cleanliness of your vehicle and being for a great cause.

Firefighting is a life-threatening career that can often be dangerous, stressful and traumatic, sometimes leaving injured firefighters unable to work for months.

Dealing with life or death situations every day also takes its toll emotionally too, with a recent rise in mental health problems amongst the front-line force leading to increased attention in helping workers recuperate after a hard day’s work.

The Fire Fighters Charity has been supporting the fire services community for 75 years, starting by supporting bereaved families of firefighters killed during the Blitz before evolving into a modern-day service that provides life enhancing health and wellbeing support to the whole fire community.

The Fire Fighters Charity is here for every one of the UK’s both serving and retired members of fire and rescue staff as well as their families, a tailored package that no other organisation can provide.

Firmly established on the fire and rescue service calendar, the National Car Wash is the Charity’s largest national fundraising event of the year. 

As well as being a fun and popular fundraising event for the kids who get to check out the array of equipment, the Car Wash also gives firefighters the unique opportunity to share vital community safety advice with a large cross-section of their community. 

Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity, Dr Jill Tolfrey, said: “The National Car Wash provides a vital source of income for the Charity, as well as being a fun and popular event. 

“It costs £8.5million a year to keep The Fire Fighters Charity running – and with no regular government funding, we rely completely on your donations and goodwill. 

“You can show your support to our firefighting heroes by visiting your local fire station on Saturday 10 June – and afterwards drive away safely, in a clean car!”

Chief Fire Officer said: “Monies raised through national fundraising initiatives provide a real boost to The Fire Fighters Charity. 

“We are delighted that so many of our fire stations are getting involved and would urge local people to come along and support the day. 

“Your valued donations will go towards helping thousands of men, women and children from the fire and rescue community during their times of need.”   

Applications For Boardroom Apprentice 2023 Are Open

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Applications for this year’s Boardroom Apprentice programme are now open and available on the official Boardroom Apprentice website.

Open to those aged 16 or over from all backgrounds and all abilities, this unique board learning and development programme is looking for a diverse range of Boardroom Apprentices to take a seat at one of the host boards and attend a suite of expertly led learning days throughout the year.

Founded by Eileen Mullan in 2017, the programme is now in its sixth year and has helped 277 individuals across Northern Ireland make their aspiration of sitting on a board a reality whilst helping to diversify boardrooms in the public and third sector.

Eileen Mullan, Boardroom Apprentice founder, said: “I decided to create a programme that brings together three key elements – knowledge and understanding, experience and support. Over a twelve-month window Boardroom Apprentices will get practical board experience, a suite of learning days and support to fully equip them to serve on a board in the public or third sector.

“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift. You get the programme as a gift with the expectation that you give it back. Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”

Speaking of her experience, Boardroom Apprentice Alex Deonarine who was placed with the Department of Health said: “Being a young, mixed race girl, I initially felt as if there was no room for me at the boardroom table. 

“I didn’t understand my potential and often questioned ‘what’s the point?’ or ‘what do I have to bring?’.

“What I learned was that anyone and everyone can serve on a board, it just takes confidence and believing in yourself. 

“If you’ve never seen anyone “like you” on a board before, be the first one. You will never regret it – you will only treasure each and every experience on this journey.”

2022 Boardroom Apprentice, Craig Service, who was placed with the NI Police Fund said that the programme was a “humbling” experience.

He added: “Before I joined the programme, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it would be daunting and I suppose I doubted my capabilities to be involved in such a programme.

“I met and worked with wonderful people all of whom have their own views, opinions and experiences that I could learn from.

“Being on a board is one of the most humbling and authentic experiences I have ever had. I would highly recommend the programme to anyone.”

Boardroom Apprentice Gillian Orr, who was placed with Nexus, said her time on the course last year provided her with an opportunity to develop her soft skills: “Through the project work I developed greater interpersonal skills which were really helpful and mirrored the experience of being a new board member. 

“I also learned skills across different areas that I wouldn’t typically have insight to, such as finance analysis and governance, all of which were accessible at all levels and applicable in my host board setting.”

Boardroom Apprentice Clodagh Palmer, who was placed with Southern Regional College said the experience helped her in her personal development journey.

“Boardroom Apprentice enables people from different backgrounds to have an opportunity to be on a board” she said. 

“I wanted to be on a board for my personal development and to be able to give back to the community in which I live.

“Before applying I had no idea, to be honest, of what to expect and I thought it wouldn’t be as interesting as it was. I was wrong, as I soon found out the programme was far better than I ever expected.

“I learned so much about how boards work, the intricacies and about what I can bring to the board.

This year’s programme will run from September 1, 2023 – until August 31, 2024. Applications close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Going Beyond Expectations: Ciara Burch’s Journey With Boardroom Apprentice

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2022 Boardroom Apprentice Ciara Burch

By Zahra Baz

Ciara Burch had long recognised the impact of board involvement throughout her role as a Project Management Consultant at PwC.

The Belfast-native previously felt she lacked the experience and knowledge required to sit on a board before the opportunity to gain hands-on experience came along.

With a strong desire to better understand the societal needs of Northern Ireland, the 36-year-old was quick to apply for the Boardroom Apprentice back in 2022.

“I was attracted to apply for the opportunity because I wanted to learn how to be effective on a board, and gain a better understanding of the big societal questions that the public sector and charity boards face and deal with on a daily basis.

“In the past I’ve worked in organisations that have answered to boards so I’ve really seen the impact they can have on major decisions. 

“I really wanted to better understand how the board was part of the ecosystem when it came to these public organisations.”

In 2017, Eileen Mullan established the Boardroom Apprentice initiative. This programme offers a distinctive opportunity for individuals interested in serving on public or third sector board to acquire knowledge, develop skills, and gain practical experience in a safe environment before venturing into the actual boardroom.

For her Boardroom Apprentice experience Ciara was placed with Belfast based charity Housing Rights, which works to help people in Northern Ireland live in safe, suitable, and affordable homes.

“The application process was incredibly simple and straightforward, just make sure to be open and honest because that will make your experience all the more meaningful.

“It’s incredibly important to understand why you want to sit on a board and, if you have a particular host board in mind, why you want to be matched with that one specifically. Knowing and understanding your ‘why’ directly affects how you make decisions so you really do need to be clear on that.”

For Ciara, she applied to Boardroom Apprentice with one overarching goal: to learn something brand new.

“I actually didn’t have a particular type of board that I wanted to serve on when it came to my application. For me it was more about understanding the role of boards and how they impact the work done in Northern Ireland on a societal scale.

“However, I selected charity host boards because it was beyond the realms of my normal working life and was an entirely new experience for me.

“Being on the Housing Rights board was such a meaningful experience. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and it opened my eyes to the key role that organisations and charities play in our society, the challenges they face and the innovative way they deal with challenges.

“I feel I got a really in-depth experience because I was invited to attend board activities at every level and was encouraged to be part of all of the activities. It really let me see the key role that every member plays in the room as well as the importance of asking the awkward questions!”

Recognising the significance of offering formal training and assistance to aspiring board members, the Boardroom Apprentice programme places a strong emphasis on upskilling. Every participant is required to participate in a series of structured learning days, which have been designed to enrich their abilities and broaden their knowledge. By prioritising skill enhancement in this way, the programme ensures that each individual is well-equipped to take on board positions with both confidence and competence.

With her expectations exceeded, Ciara initially anticipated the Boardroom Apprentice as more of a stepping stone towards board service. It was after the programme began that she recognised the emphasis on personal development.

“The programme was much more than I expected” said Ciara, adding: “There was a greater focus on personal development than I assumed would be possible in a programme of this scale.

“For example, communication was a key skill that was heavily emphasised throughout the programme so we were given the tools to tailor our communication styles to our audience in order to communicate messages or to question potential assumptions.

“On top of that, the calibre of the guest lecturers was far beyond what I could have expected. This includes some of the key personalities in public life who spoke with enthusiasm for what the programme is aiming to achieve. They shared their personal stories and spoke candidly of the difficulties they face in life, and passionately about what drives them to want to do better – their ‘why’.”

Additionally, Ciara often found herself pleasantly surprised by unexpected elements of the programme that went beyond her initial expectations.

“I was genuinely taken aback by the strength of the community that the Boardroom Apprentice programme has built and how supportive of an environment it all is.

“I feel as though I could reach out to any of my fellow apprentices to gain support in my boardroom journey.”

For those considering applying to this year’s Boardroom Apprentice programme, Ciara provides honest advice: “Take a deep breath and just do it. But make sure that you have the time to dedicate yourself, so that you can take advantage of everything that it offers.

“It’s opened up so many doors and opportunities for me, so I know the next round of apprentices will reap the same benefits. For example, I have a lot more confidence in asking questions – even the stupid ones because, more often than not, they’re the key ones that everyone’s thinking about.

“Don’t let your own prejudged ideas about yourself stop you from applying. Everyone has the right to be in the room and everyone is necessary for the conversations to happen.”

Applications for the 2023/2024 Boardroom Apprentice programme open on Monday June 5 and close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

NI Renewables Firm Everun Expand Into Scotland With New Partnership

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Northern Ireland firm Everun is set to partner with Scottish engineering firm MCE Scotland to bring its innovative Turntide technology across the water.

Last month renewables experts Everun launched the revolutionary new energy technology product to market that will help companies save on costs and help tackle climate change.

By partnering with MCE Scotland Everun will be introducing Turntide Motors to the HVAC industry across Scotland.

The Turtide Smart Motor System, developed in California, has been proven to help reduce energy consumption, emissions and costs for HVAC systems. 

The motors use a patented switched reluctance design that makes them up to 80% more energy-efficient than traditional motors. This means that they can help businesses and organisations significantly reduce their carbon footprint, while also saving money on energy bills.

Everun’s managing director, Michael Thompson said the partnership will allow MCE Scotland to offer Turntide Motors to HVAC installers and service providers across Scotland bringing a much-needed solution for businesses wanting to make their HVAC systems more sustainable and cost-effective.

He added: “In addition to our exclusive distribution rights to the technology we are thrilled to be collaborating with MCE Scotland as an installation partner to bring Turntide Motors to the HVAC industry in Scotland.

“This technology is a game-changer when it comes to energy efficiency, and we believe that it will have a significant impact on the Scottish market. We look forward to working with MCE Scotland to help businesses across Scotland achieve their sustainability goals.”

The Turntide system is cloud-connected, with smart software that is certified to be up to 60% more efficient than traditional motors and is already in use across the United States.

Turntide Motors have already been installed in hundreds of businesses around the world, including Amazon, JLL, and a variety of commercial buildings and factories. The motors have been shown to reduce energy consumption and costs by up to 50%, while also providing better performance and reliability than traditional motors.

Allan Espie, managing director of MCE Scotland said: “We are excited to be partnering with Everun Ltd to bring Turntide Motors to Scotland.

“We believe that this technology has the potential to transform the HVAC industry, and we are looking forward to working with Everun Ltd to help businesses across Scotland make their buildings more sustainable and cost-effective.”

Turntide’s electrical motor is based on the physics of electric generation using magnets and holds more than 100 patents for its intelligence-based system. Its three elements are the motor, the controller and the cloud that optimises every part of the energy produced, and precisely switches the current to the motor 20,000 times per second.

The partnership, facilitated by Invest Northern Ireland, marks an important step forward in the Scottish HVAC industry’s journey towards sustainability. By offering Turntide Motors, Everun Ltd and MCE Scotland are providing a solution that can help businesses reduce their carbon footprint, save money on energy bills, and improve the overall performance of their HVAC systems.

The partnership was officially announced at the Invest Northern Ireland stand at the All Energy Conference 2023 in Glasgow. Welcoming Everun’s success, Grainne McVeigh, Invest NI’s Director of Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering said: “Everun’s determination to bring this new technology to the RoI and now Scotland is supporting companies in these markets to achieve their sustainability goals and reduce their carbon footprint. 

“We look forward to continuing to support Everun to achieve its ambitious growth strategy in the years ahead.” 

PAC Group Announce Sponsorship Of Northern Ireland Cricket Umpires Kits

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Belfast engineering firm PAC Group have announced a sponsorship deal for the next three seasons for the Northern Ireland Association of Cricket Umpires & Scorers (NIACUS).

The sponsorship comes on the back of the eight-division company’s existing support for Carrickfergus Cricket Club.

Darren Leslie, business development director at PAC Group, said the company is delighted to show their support for the sport.

He added: “PAC Group already supports ladies rugby, children’s football and a local cricket club. 

“This sponsorship of the Northern Ireland Association of Cricket Umpires is just another way we can show our support for grassroots sport across the country.”

The sponsorship will see 75 umpires across Northern Ireland attend hundreds of games per season for the next three years with PAC branded kits.

Colin McClean, chairman of NIACUS, said PAC Group’s support was a welcome addition to their organisation.

He said: “We are delighted that PAC Group have shown their support for cricket across Northern Ireland by providing kit for our umpires.

“The kits have debuted well following the start of the season last month.”

The kit includes a new on-field t-shirt, jacket and long-sleeve jersey.

Umpire Gareth Morrison said: “Being an umpire means we have to be part of setting a high standard on the pitch. This new kit allows us to be smart, visible and support a fantastic local company in the process.”

Brian Alexander, an employee at PAC Group and also an umpire with NIACUS said he was delighted to see his employer support the sport he loves.

He said: “PAC Group has a great ethos of supporting local sport and I was absolutely delighted to be able to facilitate a partnership between them and NIACUS.

“I will be proud to walk onto the pitch as an umpire but delighted to be supporting my employer at the same time.”

Boardroom Apprentice Programme Set To Return Next Month

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2022 Boardroom Apprentices Craig Service, Alex Deonarine, Clodagh Palmer and Gillian Orr

Boardroom Apprentice is set to return this year as applications for this year’s programme are open on June 5.

A UK first, the Boardroom Apprentice is a 12-month unique board learning, development and placement programme which enables those who would like to serve on a public or third sector board to learn and gain experience through in-depth training and support.

Founded by Eileen Mullan in 2017, the programme is now entering its seventh year and has helped 277 candidates across Northern Ireland to begin their Boardroom journey thanks to its support from the Department of Finance. 

Open to those aged 16 or over from all backgrounds and all abilities, the programme seeks to enable a wider diversity of individuals to play their part within boardrooms and helps move the board member role from aspiration to reality.

Eileen Mullan, Boardroom Apprentice founder, said: “I decided to create a programme that brings together three key elements – knowledge, experience and support. 

“Over a twelve-month window Boardroom Apprentices will get practical board experience, a suite of learning days and support to fully equip them to serve on a board in the public or third sector in the future.

“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift. You get the programme as a gift with the expectation that you give it back. Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”

Speaking of her experience, Boardroom Apprentice Alex Deonarine who was placed with the Department of Health said: “Being a young, mixed race girl, I initially felt as if there was no room for me at the boardroom table. 

“I didn’t understand my potential and often questioned ‘what’s the point?’ or ‘what do I have to bring?’.

“What I learned was that anyone and everyone can serve on a board, it just takes confidence and believing in yourself. 

“If you’ve never seen anyone “like you” on a board before, be the first one. You will never regret it – you will only treasure each and every experience on this journey.”

During the year, each Boardroom Apprentice has to attend eight learning days on topics such as finance, communication and governance along with the board placement on a board of their choice, matched by both Eileen and a selection of former apprentices.

2022 Boardroom Apprentice, Craig Service, who was placed with the NI Police Fund said that the programme was a “humbling” experience.

He added: “Before I joined the programme, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it would be daunting and I suppose I doubted my capabilities to be involved in such a programme.

“I met and worked with wonderful people all of whom have their own views, opinions and experiences that I could learn from.

“Being on a board is one of the most humbling and authentic experiences I have ever had. I would highly recommend the programme to anyone.”

Boardroom Apprentice Gillian Orr, who was placed with Nexus, said her time on the course last year provided her with an opportunity to develop her soft skills: “Through the project work I developed greater interpersonal skills which were really helpful and mirrored the experience of being a new board member. 

“I also learned skills across different areas that I wouldn’t typically have insight to, such as finance analysis and governance, all of which were accessible at all levels and applicable in my host board setting.”

Boardroom Apprentice Clodagh Palmer, who was placed with South Eastern Regional College said the experience helped her in her personal development journey.

“Boardroom Apprentice enables people from different backgrounds to have an opportunity to be on a board” she said. 

“I wanted to be on a board for my personal development and to be able to give back to the community in which I live.

“Before applying I had no idea, to be honest, of what to expect and I thought it wouldn’t be as interesting as it was. I was wrong, as I soon found out the programme was far better than I ever expected.

“I learned so much about how boards work, the intricacies and about what I can bring to the board.

This year’s programme will run from September 1, 2023 – until August 31, 2024.

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Water Is Not An Infinite Business Resource

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By Karl Fox, General Manager, PAC Enviro 

Late last year as global leaders met in Sharam El-Sheikh to discuss climate change at COP27 the issue of water, whether it be flooding in Pakistan or drought in east Africa was never far from the news reports. But the impact of water, and wastewater, closer to home is something that the industry must consider.

To the casual observer, it may seem strange that, in a country so blessed with rainfall, wastewater can have an environmental impact, yet the very treatment of it and managing the processes are drivers of change.

There are real costs in managing wastewater such as energy use and real costs to the environment if not done correctly. Industrial and domestic wastewater disposal is estimated to contribute nine per cent of worldwide anthropogenic methane emissions.

At PAC Enviro, a division of PAC Group, we are conscious that our clients, large and small, want to be part of the solution to the challenges set at COP27, and the ambitious targets set by Northern Ireland’s Climate Action Plan.

Managing water in the workplace is a task that, in some ways, is similar to what you might do at home. Leaks from taps, inefficient toilet flushes and water used in cleaning are all part of the water use mix, but for businesses, there is the added driver of water charges, whether metered or assessed.

Businesses from all sectors from hospitality right through to major manufacturers can not only contribute to the climate goals but also save financially by committing to reusing their water by harvesting, treating and reusing their grey water, wastewater and rainwater.

As water is used at a high volume in manufacturing and engineering it is a resource that must be looked at in planning. Project management and applying the right software are the headline services that can be looked at for water use and wastewater treatment.

From screening the wastewater through to clarification and effluent disposal it can be up to an eight-stage process. Control and automation, plant optimisation, stand-alone solutions, upgrades, associated mechanical and services and pumping station control are part of the mix to be considered across all industry sectors, including agricultural, transport, manufacturing, hospitality and much more.

It is because of the breadth of water usage that all must take on the challenges. Where is our water used? How much does it cost? How is our wastewater managed? What impact does it have on climate? The answers to these questions are available and can be applied in a cost-effective way, in addition to working towards environmental accreditation to reassure clients that it is a responsible business.

That word – responsible – resonates across all industries as every part of society is becoming more acutely aware of the impact that there is no time to wait, and delays will be frowned upon.

I’m not talking about the extreme protests seen across England’s roads and motorways, but the ordinary person who is becoming more conscious of what they are contributing to climate change. That so-called ordinary person is a voter, a business owner, and a consumer. They each want to be part of the solution.

A business’ contribution to achieving net zero is not just an altruistic ambition but it also makes sense when applied to the bottom line. There are real economic advantages to looking at sustainable business planning. Managing wastewater must be part of that mix. Married with renewable energy sources such as solar panels, that target can be achieved.

With the recent increase in non-domestic water and sewerage rates in Northern Ireland, all businesses can not only contribute to achieving net zero but also save money by treating and reusing their grey water, rainwater and modern technology now means even their wastewater can be treated and reused.

The Climate Action Plan will demand that 80% of Northern Ireland’s energy will be from renewable resources by 2030. Unfortunately, we are well away from achieving that target despite almost 50% coming from those sources in 2022 from a base of almost zero 15 years ago.

The country stands at an environmental and economic crossroads. We as individuals can take action; we as business owners and investors can take action.

Businesses such as PAC Enviro and our other PAC Group divisions have been working towards developing efficient, environmentally sensitive solutions. Instead of staring into an abyss wondering what to do, the services are at hand. Whether it be the private or public sector there are ways to tackle the pressing issues for all of the country, and across the UK and Ireland.

What we cannot afford to do is avoid the need to act now. The future health and wellbeing of all of us and our country might seem like hyperbole, but it is the reality. Planning for the next business cycle may take up a lot of time, but a longer vision is also key.

The next time we are caught in a downpour, walk along a river, or even drive past a wastewater treatment plant it is worth considering how that precious resource is managed and how effective management can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Renewables Firm Everun Sign On As Sponsor For All-Ireland Sustainability Awards

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Belfast renewables firm Everun have been confirmed as one of the leading sponsors of the forthcoming All-Ireland Sustainability Awards. 

The event, hosted by Barra Best, will take place on October 5 in the Grand Ballroom of the Europa Hotel in Belfast.

With sustainability and the net-zero agenda firmly on the radar for everyone, the race is now on to find the best examples of sustainability.

Everun is joined by companies such as  Visit Belfast, International Synergies NI, Danske, NIE Networks, Veri Connect and Ulster Bank who are supporting the event this year.

There are 14 awards being presented on the evening with 13 categories open for nomination to represent the wider sustainability agenda, these include:

  • Agri-Food Initiative of the Year
  • Biodiversity Initiative of the Year
  • Young Changemaker of the Year
  • Housing / Buildings Initiative
  • Consultant / Consultancy of the Year
  • Waste, Resource Management & Circular Economy Initiative of the Year Food
  • Waste Reduction Initiative of the Year
  • Energy Initiative / Project of the Year
  • Green Exporter of the Year
  • Net-Zero Initiative of the Year
  • Green Marketing / Stakeholder Engagement Initiative of the Year
  • Social Sustainability, Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year
  • Sustainable Tourism & Hospitality Initiative of the Year

There is also the Overall Winner of the Year 2023, which will be the final award of the evening. This prestigious title will go to one business, selected from all the category winners of the evening, to be awarded the most Sustainable Business of the Year 2023. 

Danielle McCormick of Triterra and founder of All-Ireland Sustainability, explained: “All-Ireland Sustainability began in November 2020 with our free online networking group, the goal of which was to drive the sustainability agenda, and positive change, across the region, share best practice and learnings and create collaboration opportunities. 

“I am proud to say that the Network now has 400 members across NI and Ireland, we have run two All-Ireland Sustainability Summits in 2022 and are now looking forward to delivering our first Awards event in October.”

Ross Moffett, Sales & Business Development Director at Everun, added: “We are delighted to partner in the inaugural All-Ireland Sustainability Awards this October as the ethos of these events was a natural fit with our own. 

“At Everun we are focused on helping our customers become more sustainable through reducing energy consumption, and we felt that the awards were a fantastic opportunity to recognise all the great work being achieved across the island of Ireland to drive and accelerate positive change across the sustainability agenda. 

“We are looking forward to being involved in the judging process and can’t wait to hear more about the individuals and organisations making a difference across this year’s categories.” 

The awards are completely free to enter, and individuals can nominate themselves, their organisation, or a colleague for an award. Entries are now open and will remain open until August 15 with finalists expected to be announced the week commencing September 4.

“We are extremely grateful to all of our sponsors and partners, without whom the awards evening simply wouldn’t be possible, and are absolutely thrilled to have young and upcoming Northern Irish artist, Ruthie Stewart, design a unique trophy, especially for our event,” said Danielle, adding: “We have an absolutely amazing evening organised up for our guests, including a super line-up of local musicians and entertainment, as well as a local produce menu designed by the Europa team for guests to enjoy on the night. 

“We’re delighted to have entries now open and to celebrate all exciting and innovative sustainable developments at our awards event in October.”

Award categories, nomination forms and further details can be found at: www.allirelandsustainability.com 

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