Meet The Team | Operations Manager, Mark

Mark joined the team as Refresh NI’s Operations Manager in January of 2025 and handles the daily operations of the company, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently at Refresh NI. Read on to learn more about Mark.

So Mark, tell us a bit about your education and career so far.

”I am an Operations Manager in Refresh NI. I am responsible for overseeing and optimizing the day to day operations of my team to drive efficiency & productivity. I manage my team to positively impact performance and customer satisfaction, whilst keeping them safe and happy in their role. One of the most enjoyable parts of my job is dealing with customers.”

Why did you decide to join Refresh?

”Having worked in the Telecommunications sector for over 28 years, I wanted new challenges and gain new experience in a different sector, whilst using my transferrable skills. Sustainable energy is something I wanted to become involved with for many years, so working in Refresh NI ticks all of the boxes for me.”

You are in charge of the next staff event, what are we doing?

”A team building event, followed by a few drinks.”

If you could meet one person dead or alive, who would it be?

”Albert Einstein.”

What was your first job?

”My first job was renting out rowing boats to tourists in Portrush Harbour during my school summer holidays.”

If you weren’t an Operations Manager, what would you be?

”A Marine Engineer.”

What is your favourite way to spend a weekend off work?

”Sailing with my Family on my sailing yacht in the Irish Sea.”

You’re getting a takeaway, what are you ordering?

”Mexican.”

What is your favourite holiday you have ever been on?

”Cruising in the Western Isles of Scotland on my parents sailing yacht when I was a child.”

What are your biggest fears?

”Spiders and insects.”

Night in or night out?

”Night out.”

What excites you about your role at Refresh NI?

“I am excited to be involved in helping in the company’s continued success and growth, whilst making a positive impact to sustainable energy and the environment.”

How did you get into the field of Operations Management?

“After graduating from the University of Ulster as an Electronic and Electrical Engineer, I worked as a Telecommunications and Cable TV Engineer. I quickly realized I enjoyed organizing, planning and problem solving, so naturally progressed into operations management.”

How do you define success in your role?

“Happy customers, and a happy efficient team.”

If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be?

“Play a musical instrument.”

What’s one simple tip for people to live more sustainably?

“Use more energy-efficient devices and appliances, e.g. LED bulbs, energy efficient appliances.”

Are you a coffee or tea person?

“I love Coffee, and dislike tea.”

How do you see this industry evolving in the next 10 years?

“I expect this industry to grow and evolve considerably in the next 10 years.”

How would your friends describe you in three words?

“Funny, Sarcastic, Stubborn.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“Engage your brain before your mouth.”

What’s your ideal work environment?

“A busy environment with friendly people.”

What would your superpower be, and why?

“Being able to breathe underwater, because I would love to explore under the sea without having to use sub aqua gear.”

Thank you, Mark!

We hope you enjoyed getting to know Mark a little better! Let us know who else from the Refresh NI team you would like to get to know next!

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In the meantine, check out our other meet the team articles below. Each month we introduce a new staff member, so you can get to know all of the friendly faces that make up Team Refresh.