‘Attention to detail and deep understanding of the business’ underpinned award win
WINNERS’ CIRCLE – RUAIRI MCBRIDE
As the countdown to the NR 2023 Awards continue, we take a look back to our 2022 winners, who tell us how it felt to win a Neighbourhood Retailer Award and what it means to them, their team and their business.
Winner of the Store Manager of the Year was Ruairi McBride, from Ivan Wilson Centra in Limavady, who impressed the judges with his attention to detail and “deep understanding” of the working of the business.
Describing the award win as “unexpected” Ruairi said he was delighted to be part of the evening celebrating all the good work the retail industry does in Northern Ireland.
“Just to be nominated was a huge compliment and the standard of the other finalists was so high, and they rightly deserved to be there and showcased for performing at the highest level,” said Ruairi.
The independent judges said teamwork and individual recognition were “integral to the overall plan to achieve objectives set and the focus on customer experience produced very positive results”.
They added Ruairi had been “able to explain how exceptional business improvement had been achieved through a number of innovative initiatives to increase customer engagement and drive sales”.
“This energy and commitment underpinned by the experience and confidence demonstrated has made this manager the winner of the award,” they added.
Following his win, Ruairi was quick to heap praise on his whole team, saying they deserved the award as much as he did.
“Winning this award is only possible because of the hard work my team do and because they have fully bought in to what the company’s goals are,” he said.
“When the judging process is going on, it’s the team that is doing all the hard work. I might have the ideas, but it’s entirely down to the team what is done in the store.
“Personally, I would like to thank all my team for all their efforts and to the company directors for the support they give to me. This award is dedicated to all of you.”
