Interview with Padraig Gillen, Managing Director of ISOPARTNER Ireland
ISOPARTNER Ireland is a newly rebranded company, but has a history of more than 50 years. Can you tell us a bit more about the company and this recent transition?
We began as an Insulation contracting business in 1969 and in the late 1970’s the company transformed into an Insulation supply business. In the early 1990’s the company added to its portfolio with a specialist Fire Protection and Noise Control business and later a conversion business. In 2010 the business came together as Thermal Insulation Distributors Ltd (TIDL) and became part of the IPCOM Group in 2016. Today we have become ISOPARTNER and offer more services and expertise to our customers with the wider ISOPARTNER group of companies and the whole IPCOM Group.
ISOPARTNER Ireland has achieved wonderful results in recent years, even in challenging times. What’s your secret? What do you feel is the biggest strength of your company?
Our secret is simple, it’s our team! Many of our staff started in the stores or factory and have progressed through the business. They have grown in experience and with training have developed relationships with customers that help support their needs. We always invest in our staff and give opportunities to progress and rely on their hard work and dedication to our business.
To continue this success, how do you prepare for the future?
With continued investment in our staff and always with an eye to the future, we try to keep ahead of market trends, get involved early in upcoming projects and work with customers and suppliers to provide solutions that meet their needs. Our Senior Management Team have a wealth of experience in problem solving and technical insulation solutions. They are continually involved in the market and are aware of customer requirements and potential issues before we get to order stage. This allows us to become involved to promote products and solutions for each project.
You have been with the company since 1997 and have tons of experience. In this world full of challenges and opportunities, what would be your advice for the next generation?
Keep communicating and talking to your staff, colleagues and customers. Keep an open mind and always take the time to consider the effect that a decision you make has on others.
Sustainability is fundamental to the way we do business. To what extent do you find it important to contribute to a better world?
Our business is about saving energy use. The products we supply need to be sustainable and giving feedback to the manufacturers is vital in improving the product and its sustainability. If we can reduce the consumption of energy in our part of the world then we will have made a significant contribution to a better world.
Your retirement is getting near. You will be missed! Do you have a bucket list with things to do after your retirement? If so, what’s in the top 3?
- Travelling around Australia, New Zealand and Canada to visit family and friends
- Being involved in local sports clubs to help with the development of future generations
- Watch my young family grow up and help them have the opportunities that came my way and benefit from my experience
What’s your favourite quote?
It says it in the Bible – ask and thou shalt receive!
What would your best friend say he likes the most and the least about you?
You’re presuming a lot by saying he! My best friend is my wife Lillian and I dare not ask her either question!
