Alchemy Technology Services Presented with King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade

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On Friday, 27th September, Alchemy Technology Services reached a significant milestone in our journey. We were officially presented with the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, marking a proud moment for both our company and the Derry / Londonderry community. The King’s Award for Enterprise is one of the most esteemed accolades for UK businesses. It recognises outstanding achievements in areas such as international trade, innovation, and sustainable development. Specifically, the King’s Award for International Trade honours companies that have demonstrated substantial growth in overseas earnings and commercial success. This recognition places Alchemy among a top group of businesses, being one of only four recipients from Northern Ireland and among 252 organisations nationally recognised this year. Our success in international markets brings valuable revenue back into our local economy, showcasing the potential of Derry / Londonderry as a hub for global business.

The ceremonial presentation took place at the Mayor’s Chamber in the historic Guildhall, symbolising our strong commitment to our local roots. The award was presented by Mr Ian Crowe MBE CStJ, HM Lord-Lieutenant for the County Borough of Londonderry, with Deputy Lieutenant Mr Gavin Killeen MBE DL in attendance. The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Ms Lilian Seenoi-Barr, hosted the event.

Mr Ian Crowe MBE CStJ commented: “Congratulations to Alchemy on winning the King’s Award for Enterprise. This is an incredible achievement that highlights hard work, innovation, and dedication to excellence. Alchemy’s commitment to pushing boundaries and making a positive impact is truly inspiring. Here’s to continued success and many more accolades in the future! Your achievement should inspire many other local companies to put themselves forward for the prestigious King’s Award.”

Mayor Lilian Seenoi-Barr added: “I was delighted to host this ceremony and be part of presenting this internationally recognised award to Alchemy Technology Services. It represents a fitting recognition for their dedicated work to grow their business across the world and establish themselves in a number of key overseas markets. Since their inception in 2018, Alchemy have quickly evolved into one of the city’s biggest employers and are a shining example of the benefits our Council area offers as a location to live, work and do global business in.”

John Harkin, our CEO, emphasised the local impact of this achievement: “Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is not just an honour for Alchemy, but a testament to the talent and potential of our community. This award reflects our unwavering commitment to Derry / Londonderry and Northern Ireland. Our success is intertwined with the growth and prosperity of our local area.”

Since our inception in 2018, we’ve been a driving force for local economic development, creating over 200 highly skilled jobs primarily filled by local talent. Our in-house Graduate Programme, now in its third year, continues to provide valuable opportunities for graduates from local universities. Additionally, we maintain ongoing recruitment for senior roles, reinforcing our dedication to nurturing homegrown talent and contributing to the region’s professional landscape at all levels. Alchemy remains committed to balancing our global expansion with a strong focus on local impact. We view our international success as a means to further invest in and develop the Derry / Londonderry region, ensuring that as we grow, so too does the community we call home.

This commitment is further exemplified by our acquisition of r10 consulting, now known as Alchemy London Market, which has driven growth by expanding our offer to clients and creating better opportunities for our people. This King’s Award stands as a proud achievement for Alchemy and a powerful affirmation of the potential within the Derry / Londonderry community. It represents not just business success, but a model of how companies can drive positive change and create opportunities at a local level while competing on a global stage.

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Alchemy Technology Services Announced As First Tenant of Ebrington Plaza in Derry/Londonderry

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Alchemy Technology Services, a leading software implementation and consultancy firm in the global insurance technology industry, has been announced as the first tenant of the new Ebrington Plaza building in Derry/Londonderry. This move is part of a multi-million pound investment in the North West region by Alchemy, signalling its ongoing commitment to the local economy.

The state-of-the-art, grade A office space in Ebrington Plaza will serve as Alchemy’s new permanent headquarters, supporting the company’s commitment to long term growth in the region.  Founded in the city in 2018, Alchemy currently employs over 150 people in Derry/Londonderry, providing consultancy and software implementation services to the global insurance industry.

John Harkin, Founder and CEO of Alchemy Technology Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the move: “We are thrilled to be the first tenant in Ebrington Plaza. This new cutting-edge office space will allow us to continue our expansion and to create an exceptional work environment for our employees. The move supports our mission to create a centre of excellence for the transformation of the global insurance industry by attracting and retaining top talent in the North West. It reinforces Alchemy’s position both as a leading player in the global insurance industry and an employer of choice in Northern Ireland.

Harkin added, “Following the recent opening of our City of London office in the iconic Lloyd’s of London building, we’re confident our new headquarters will play a pivotal role in continuing to expand our customer base. It’s a testament to our development as a company over the past 6 years and to the hard work and dedication of our talent.”

Jeremy Fitch, Executive Director of Business Growth at Invest Northern Ireland said:“Invest NI has proudly supported Alchemy since it first established a presence in Northern Ireland in 2018, helping the company grow and create high-quality jobs.

“Today’s announcement reflects Alchemy’s confidence in the North West’s skilled talent pool. Companies like Alchemy play a vital role in strengthening our regional economy and reinforcing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a prime destination for business and investment.”

Paul Mulholland, Heron Group Property Director, commented ‘We are delighted to welcome Alchemy, a thriving local technology business, to Ebrington Plaza. Alchemy’s decision to choose Ebrington Plaza is testament to the quality of space on offer and the appeal of Ebrington as a business location. Alchemy has established itself as a leading player in its field and Heron Property are excited to deliver best-in-class office accommodation for their growing business.’

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi -Barr, added

“Best wishes to all at Alchemy Technologies for this exciting new chapter in their journey.

“It represents another significant milestone for the firm who have expanded significantly since they were founded in 2018.

“Their decision to locate their headquarters in the heart of the city is a ringing endorsement of the North West as an attractive location to work, live and do business in.”

The move to Ebrington Plaza in spring 2025 marks a new chapter for Alchemy Technology Services as it continues to grow its presence in Northern Ireland and expand its services to the global insurance industry.

About Alchemy Technology Services 

Alchemy Technology Services is a software implementation and consultancy firm driving the digitisation of the global insurance industry. Alchemy was founded in Derry/Londonderry in 2018 by John Harkin with a mission to create a centre of excellence that would offer world class careers for the talent of the North West. It currently employs 200 people in both Derry/Londonderry and in its London operation, Alchemy London Market, based in Lloyd’s of London.

About Ebrington Plaza 

Ebrington Plaza is a new, multi-million pound development in Derry/Londonderry, offering grade A office space designed to attract and support businesses in the North West region of Northern Ireland. The development is set to play a crucial role in the area’s economic regeneration and growth.

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New Chapter for Derry Chamber

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On 6th December Derry Chamber helds its AGM and  officially welcomed its new Chamber President, Andrew Fleming.

Andrew is Chief Executive of FNW Group, the parent company of Fleming Steel, Fleming Doors and Fleming Coatings, based in Donegal; Norwest Roofing Systems in Omagh; Limavady Roller Doors in Limavady; and BES Solutions in Belfast. As a major player in the North West economy and Vice-President of the Chamber this year, Andrew will be a familiar face to many in the Chamber.

Speaking ahead of the AGM, Andrew said:

“The North West City Region is brimming with potential just waiting to be unlocked. After so many decades of missed opportunities and policies, now, amid the numerous plans and investments announced by the Executive for our region, is our time to drive through the positive change and progression the North West both needs and deserves.”

“I would also like to thank Greg for his outstanding leadership and commitment, and I look forward to working with the Chamber team over the next year to champion the North West region.”

Andrew will be supported in his role by Steven Lindsay as Vice President as well as the Chamber Board, to which we are delighted to welcome two new members, William McColgan and Clare McGee.

Clare McGee and William McColgan

William co-owns and operates McColgan’s Quality Foods, a third-generation family business in Strabane, alongside his sister. He began his career in financial services, working as an actuarial consultant with Mercer in Dublin, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, and Philadelphia. Over the years, William has held director roles at Liberty Mutual and Manulife and successfully scaled an EdTech start-up originating from Princeton University.

Clare McGee is the dynamic CEO of AwakenHub/ AwakenAngels, with over 20 years of expertise in innovation, mentoring, project management, and funding, particularly within the tech and creative industries. As the co-founder and CEO of AwakenHub/AwakenAngels, Clare spearheads initiatives to empower women entrepreneurs and investors, reshaping the startup landscape across Ireland. Her strategic leadership is also evident in her work with Innovate-NI, where she champions sustainability and entrepreneurship within local businesses. Renowned for her operational expertise and dedication to nurturing entrepreneurial talent, Clare is a trusted advisor to both startups and investors. Recognised as the Northern Ireland Business Personality of the Year in 2016, she remains a pivotal force in advancing Ireland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Andrew’s appointment sadly brings an end to the brilliant Greg McCann’s Presidency. Greg remained a strong voice for the Chamber and North West throughout his presidency, and we thank him for the dedication and commitment he has shown to the Chamber.

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City Deal Spotlight Interview

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The Derry-Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Deal has celebrated a major milestone with the signing of a Financial Deal to unlock more than £290 million of investment in health, life science and digital projects and bring transformational change to the region.

Derry City and Strabane District Council Chief Executive John Kelpie explains the key benefits of the City Deal, and what it could mean to people hoping to return to the North West.

Congratulations on the signing of the Financial Deal. How will the City Deal change people’s day-to-day lives in the Derry City and Strabane region?

The Derry City and Strabane City Deal will improve people’s quality of life by creating more job opportunities, a safer, more vibrant city and town centre, and a focus on education and skills. It has the potential to bring up to 6,300 jobs by 2033 and lever additional millions in investment over the next decade. We aim to increase our output growth with a GVA (gross value added) of £230m per annum, which should see a significant rise in wages. People can expect to see real growth in sectors such as health and life sciences, digital industries and SMART technology that will support economic investment and regeneration, and also boost tourism and culture.

As someone who has been working on the City Deal since its inception, what aspect of the deal are you most proud of?

This is a once in a generation deal; its impact will be felt by the people of the city and district for many years to come. Personally, I’m proud of the collaboration between all the key partners who worked tirelessly to get it across the line. It’s been a joined-up approach which has seen us harness collective resources, expertise and passion for the North West. The investment from the UK government and NI Executive, plus the input from all the delivery partners, allows us to leverage additional private sector investment and make a real, positive difference to local people’s lives.

What type of jobs will be created?

We anticipate jobs will be created across all City Deal projects – including Smart Cities and digital enabling infrastructure, the School of Medicine and C-TRIC expansion, Strabane town centre’s regeneration, the Derry riverfront regeneration, Walled City tourism and the DNA (Derry North Atlantic) Museum in Ebrington.

Sustainability, inclusivity and employability are crucial and partners are already working to create a skills pipeline for the employment opportunities created by the City Deal – helping people upskill, reskill and boost digital skills.

The investment will also boost confidence and stimulate additional private sector activity and jobs. We anticipate an overall increase of 12% in the labour market, with large increases in areas such as healthcare and tourism.

What benefits will the City Deal bring for potential investors?

The North West is already an attractive proposition for investors, thanks to our unique cross-border location, our talented, well-educated workforce, and our fantastic quality of life. The City Deal, with its emphasis on innovation, digital infrastructure and regeneration will transform our local economy, and make the city and district an even greater place to do business.  

What are the next steps for the City Deal?

The official signing of the Financial Deal means Council and its delivery partners can now access funding to progress to the next stage of delivering the projects, once the full business cases are approved. The next phase of the City Deal will focus on detailed design and delivery. This work will include a wider awareness and engagement process, as the designs are developed.

What message would you have for anyone looking to return or relocate to the North West?

If you grew up here, or are considering a move here, you’ll already know that there’s nowhere quite like the North West. Our location, the friendliness of our people and our rich cultural heritage are second to none. There’s an energy and excitement here, and economic growth in recent years means we are already seeing diaspora return to live, work and raise their families. The City Deal will supercharge that prosperity, innovation and regeneration. There’s never been a better time to come home. I would encourage anyone considering relocation to visit investderrystrabane.com and sign up to the Derry Strabane Global newsletter for job and investment updates, and help planning their move.

When will City Deal projects be visible on the ground?

The pledge by the UK and NI Governments with the signing of the Financial Deal allows us to progress to the delivery phase of the projects, which will be on a phased approach over the next 10 years. The first visible project will be the DNA Museum being on site by early 2025 and the Museum opening in late 2026. All of the projects are at different stages of delivery, and these will be implemented in phases. With the financial deal in place, we will now be moving at pace to bring the other projects such as the Strabane Strategic Leisure project, a key element of the Strabane Regeneration, to the next stage of delivery. There will also be a focus on creating designs and drawings ahead of engagement with the public and partners.

What legacy do you hope the City Deal will leave for future generations?

With its focus on sustainable growth and lasting change, the positive impacts of the City Deal will be felt for generations to come – from health and wellbeing, to job prospects and economic prosperity. It’s about fulfilling Derry City and Strabane’s potential as a thriving, prosperous and inclusive region for all its inhabitants.

Where can the public find out more and be kept informed about progress?

People can visit www.derrystrabane.com/citydeal and keep an eye on Derry City and Strabane District Council’s social media channel for updates.

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‘There’s something very special happening in the North West right now’

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Derry entrepreneur Jennifer Neff co-founded social prescribing start-up Elemental, now Access Elemental, in 2013. The company supports over 20 million people across the UK, Ireland and Australia, helping them access personalised support and care in their own communities, and tackling health inequalities. Jennifer, who was recently awarded the Society Award at this year’s TechUK President’s Awards, shares her story, and her advice for people considering a relocation or investment in the North West.

“Winning the TechUK President’s Award was of those pinch me moments. The competition was high, so I was under no illusion that it would be an easy win. When they called out my name in the packed conference hall in central London, full of the UK’s leading tech companies and Thought Leaders, I put my head in my hands and sat still in total disbelief as everyone cheered. I asked myself, ‘Has a non-technical co-founder just won overall tech UK President’s Award for Society?’, and the answer was ‘Hell, yes!’

It is one of my career highlights to date and is great for women in tech, tech for good and for Derry! Any chance I get to talk about Derry and how wonderful Derry is and Derry people are, I am in there. 

When I co-founded Elemental with Leeann Monk-Ӧzgül in 2013, we took the story of Derry to every city, town and village we could (even Dubai) and talked about what was so great about Derry, but also how we were tackling health inequalities here, to help others tackle the avoidable issues affecting their localities. As a result, we were invited to participate in the regeneration and improvement of other places and spaces. The Access Elemental platform was created and implemented across communities so people could get more personalised support and care to improve their health and wellbeing in their own communities.

Leeann and myself always had total belief in what we were doing and why we were doing it – I think that is part of being a Derry Girl, and the strong generations of Derry Women down the years. We surrounded ourselves with the best mentors and the best people we could find in the region, and learned from them. 

We were bought out by the UK’s largest UK-based tech company, The Access Group, in August 2021, five years after we first launched Elemental Software. There’s been lots more investment in the team and the Elemental product which has enabled us to expand into Australia and develop new products across the NHS and local Councils throughout the UK. Over 20 million people are now engaging in services such as debt advice, mental health support, physical activity and befriending support via Access Elemental. We’ve developed a unique marketplace product, Access Elemental Marketplace, that community and voluntary groups and services feature on and receive referrals via that is accessible by commissioners, clinical leads and community leaders. It’s been rolled out across cities as we speak.

I would say to everyone living/working, or considering returning to the region, to think about starting their own business. We’re a resilient, creative and caring bunch of people here in Derry and Strabane; all the right qualities for starting and growing successful businesses. There are lots of opportunities and support here from me and others. The FEED programme for example – funded by NatWest and based at The Amp, Ebrington Square – is one of many programmes available to help people spark ideas and take their ideas to the next level.

I was also asked to be the Entrepreneur in Residence, one of three experienced mentors, and the only female mentor, in the Founder Labs, an accelerator programme to support early-stage innovation businesses in Northern Ireland. We’re keen to get as much representation from the North West as possible. The next cohort of participants will be starting the programme in mid-November. 

There’s something very special happening here right now with high growth start-ups. Having received angel funding over the years for Access Elemental, I have now become an investor myself and made my first investment recently in a Derry-based start-up. It makes all the difference to the company, job creation opportunities and building the social and economic potential of the region. I would encourage other firms and individuals to invest in Derry and Strabane-based businesses.

The business landscape is changing here. It’s not just about the accountants, solicitors and insurance companies anymore. We have animation, gaming, renewable energy, creative, tech for good and clothing brands operating on an international level, all based in Derry and Strabane. There are more women, young people and ethnic minority groups taking the step into entrepreneurship than ever. 

Having lived abroad in Edinburgh, Manchester and the United Arab Emirates, I feel so fortunate to be home. I can walk to work, my kids walk to school, cold-water dip and surf within a 20-minute drive. I get to give back and mentor others coming through social entrepreneurship journeys and I can be in London, Manchester and Birmingham for meetings within 90 minutes.

And I’m able to pop into see my mum and dad for a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit; you can’t put a price on that.”

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Taoiseach Simon Harris Visits Ulster University in Derry~Londonderry

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Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. visited Derry~Londonderry to discuss the University’s vision for growth in higher education provision in the North West.

Ulster University welcomed An Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. to its campus in Derry~Londonderry where he met with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholemew to discuss the University’s vision for growth in higher education provision in the North West.

The Taoiseach also delivered the 2024 John Hume and Thomas P. O’Neill Chair Peace Lecture, co-hosted by the University with the John and Pat Hume Foundation.

As the new academic year begins on the campus, a thriving hub for health sciences, creative industries, computing and the arts, the Taoiseach visited the site on which a new teaching and student services building will be developed, supported by cross border investment from the Irish Government and University reserves.

Announced in 2023, the €44.5 million investment at Ulster University’s campus in Derry~Londonderry by the Government of Ireland through the Shared Island initiative will expand higher education in the North West region.

Providing additional lecture and seminar spaces, computer labs and on-campus student services, the facility will also underpin research and teaching cooperation between Ulster University and Atlantic Technological University in Donegal, while also enabling the four North West Tertiary Education Cluster institutions to work more closely together in the provision of further and higher education in the region.

During the visit earlier today, Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. said:

“I was pleased to visit Ulster University in Derry once again today, with its thriving campus alive with new and returning students on their higher education journey.”

“It was a priority for me as Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research Innovation and Science, to agree and move forward in June 2023 with the major Shared Island Fund investment by the Irish Government in Ulster University’s campus, fulfilling our commitment under the New Decade, New Approach agreement to support the expansion of student numbers in Derry and economic opportunity for young people across the North West.”

“As Taoiseach, I affirmed with Vice-Chancellor Bartholomew today the Government’s partnership with Ulster University, including on the new teaching building project and funding of student healthcare training places in Derry. We also discussed Ulster University’s wider development and expansion plans and commitment to cross-border cooperation, in delivering a world-class institution that attracts students and researchers from across the island of Ireland, Great Britain and around the world.

“The Government will be working to see cross-border tertiary education and research links, both North/South and East/West, reach even greater heights in the time ahead.”

Ulster University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew said:

“We were delighted to welcome Taoiseach Simon Harris to Ulster University in Derry~Londonderry to showcase our thriving campus and our ambitious plans for growth as we look ahead to the development of the new teaching and student services building supported by the Government of Ireland, through the Shared Island initiative.

“The Taoiseach has been a long-standing supporter of our work here in the North West, both during his time as Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and now, as Taoiseach. Today’s visit was an opportunity to further discuss our distinct regional mission and our shared commitment to transform education and support economic growth in the North West.”

“In Derry~Londonderry, we are providing the most comprehensive healthcare higher education offering in the UK and Ireland. This is a campus that is addressing key challenges in the healthcare sector head on, whether that be through training the next wave of doctors, nurses and allied health professionals to combat staff shortages across the North West and beyond, or with our pioneering research into personalised medicine. It was a pleasure to discuss this with the Taoiseach and share our plans for continued investment in Derry~Londonderry.”

The visit comes as Ulster University is nominated for University of the Year by Times Higher Education and recognised as the highest-ranking UK university for outreach activities, and fifth in the world overall, in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024.

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Mayor hosts Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. on his first official visit to Derry

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Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr hosted the Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. on 16th September when he visited Derry as part of an official visit to the city to attend several engagements.

The Taoiseach received a tour of the Guildhall and met with officials from Derry City and Strabane District Council where he heard about the range of exciting initiatives being taken forward by Council and its delivery partners as part of the City Deal Project. As part of the meeting, the Taoiseach also received an update on the regional growth priorities for the North West City Region, in particular the positive collaborative work being done through the North West Regional Development Group in partnership with Donegal County Council and strategic partners in central government on both sides of the border.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr said she was extremely proud to welcome the Taoiseach on his first official visit to the City and District. She said it was an excellent opportunity to highlight to the Irish Government the strong level of engagement and collaboration that is taking place on a cross-border basis and the commitment by everyone to work collectively for growth and economic prosperity.

She said: “It was a great honour to welcome the Taoiseach Simon Harris to the City and the Guildhall and to give him an overview of the very many positive activities and initiatives we are working on with a focus on maximising the full potential of our region so that people in both jurisdictions can see and feel the benefits. The meeting was a very positive one and a great opportunity for us to acknowledge the level of support received to date and the important role the Irish Government can continue to play in facilitating further regeneration and investment in this region. I want to acknowledge the Irish Government’s funding towards the new teaching block at Ulster University and the ongoing positive engagement in relation to further expansion of the university in Derry, as well as the level of support provided for the NW territory education cluster.”

The Mayor welcoming the Shared Island Wild Atlantic Way/Causeway Coastal Route Tourism Brand Collab Project announcement said she was delighted to see this collaborative approach to promoting the tourism product and was very keen to see the Walled City positioned at the centre of where the Wild Atlantic Way meets the Causeway Coast Route.

John Kelpie, Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council said the visit of the Taoiseach was an opportunity for Council to acknowledge the Irish Government’s commitment to the region to date through the North West Strategic Growth Partnership and the NW Regional Development Group whilst also highlighting the importance of a continued shared approach to sustainable growth, economic development and infrastructural regeneration and the need for continued funding to support the North West region.

Among the issues discussed at the meeting was the Irish Government’s ongoing support on the A5 project and continued engagement to advance the Derry to Dublin airlink as well as Shared Island funding support for a range of joint initiatives with Donegal County Council such as the Sli Colmcille pilgrimage route project, a North West De-carb Exemplar Decarbonised Public Building and Transportation project as well as a NW Regulatory Technology Cluster.

“The Council took the opportunity to reinforce the message around collaboration and the success we have experienced of working together and how it has allowed us to develop programmes to support the economy such as support programmes for SMEs and start-ups, joint FDI/investment trade missions, greenways, cultural and heritage programmes, tourism development projects and destination marketing campaigns. Going forward we highlighted the need for a continued joined-up approach when it comes to investment in road, air, rail and sea connectivity in our region as well continued focus to enhance tertiary education provision, improved job and skills opportunities and investment in our tourism and cultural offerings as well as our North West Technology clusters.”

The Taoiseach was in the City to attend a number of events and meetings including projects to develop tourism on a collaborative cross-border basis in the North West; community engagement and reconciliation, and investment in higher education provision in the region through the Government of Ireland’s Shared Island Fund, while also delivering the John Hume and Thomas P. O’Neill Chair Peace Lecture at Ulster University’s campus.  

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Mayor speaks at annual Congressional Black Caucus Conference

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The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, has been in Washington, D.C. in recent days, where she was invited to speak at the 53rd Annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Legislative Conference.

The theme of this year’s event, ‘From Vision to Victory: Amplifying Black Voices’ focused on critical issues impacting education, health, technology, civic engagement, and equity. One of the key topics of discussion was the growing attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The CBCF Annual Legislative Conference, held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, is a premier gathering of policymakers, thought leaders, activists, and community members dedicated to advancing the global Black community. The agenda included a National Town Hall on equal economic opportunity, as well as diverse panels aimed at securing and sustaining progress for Black people across the globe.

Mayor Seenoi Barr was among a number of international delegates invited to speak at this high-profile conference. In addition to addressing key issues affecting the Black community, this year’s discussions challenged rising authoritarianism, global anti-Blackness, and explored pioneering legislative and policy solutions.

In the lead-up to the conference, Mayor Seenoi Barr participated in a series of meetings with officials from the U.S. State Department, the Irish Embassy in Washington, and various members of Congress. These engagements provided an opportunity to advocate for economic opportunities in Derry City and Strabane district, with a focus on tourism, trade, and investment.

Speaking after the conference, Mayor Seenoi Barr said: “I was honoured to be invited to address the Annual Legislative Conference. It was a fantastic platform to highlight Derry and Strabane’s efforts in promoting racial equity and inclusion, and to showcase some of the incredible work being done to connect communities and address inequality.  

“I also had the opportunity to engage with some visionary academics, politicians, policymakers, and potential investors, making the case for Derry’s economic growth through tourism and trade.”

The CBCF’s mission to advance the global Black community by cultivating leadership and informing policy resonates strongly with Mayor Seenoi Barr’s vision for inclusive economic growth. She emphasised, “As someone who believes in shared growth and economic prosperity for everyone, I know that by supporting the most vulnerable in society, we ensure benefits for all. I look forward to building on the connections made during this trip to further our goals of racial equity and economic development for Derry and Strabane.”

“The Annual Legislative Conference is more than just a conference; it is a catalyst for change,” said a CBCF spokesperson. “Our mission is to uplift, empower, and advance the Black community by cultivating leadership, informing policy, and educating the public.”

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Mayor welcomes students from Goodenough College community

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The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, welcomed a delegation of PhD students from a special London College community to the Guildhall on Friday for a special reception.

It’s the first time that students from Goodenough College have visited the city as part of a wider cultural enrichment programme. Goodenough College is an educational charity providing award winning postgraduate student accommodation in the heart of London’s university district.

The College aims to provide a supportive community for over 700 international postgraduate and their families from over 80 different nations. It benefits students through a programme of intellectual, cultural and social activities that gives students access to an international network and nurtures a global outlook. 

12 students arrived in the city as part of a trip aimed promoting their understanding of N. Ireland, and in particular Derry, including its history and culture. While they are here the group are staying at St Columb’s Park House and visiting a number of local sites.

Welcoming the group to the City, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, said: “I am always delighted to welcome young people to Derry and to share some of our wonderful heritage and culture. We have a strong connection with the City of London in terms of promoting skills and education, and this was another opportunity to discuss our shared interests and the many benefits of living, learning and working here.

“The students really enjoyed their visit to the Guildhall, where they had the chance to ask questions about local politics, peace-building and how Derry has been positively transformed over the years. They were also impressed to learn more about the city’s development as a leading hub for research and innovation excellence particularly in the areas of AI, data, health, and industry 4.0 technologies.”

Travelling with the students are the Dean of the Goodenough College, Alan McCormack originally from N. Ireland, who is also chaplain to the Lord Mayor City of London and Catherine McGuinness (fellow of Goodenough College and former Policy Chair, City of London).

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, pictured with a delegation from Goodenough College, London, held in the Mayor's Parlour. Seated on her left is Alan McCormack (Dean, Goodenough College) and on right Catherine McGuinness CBE (Chair of the policy & resources committee, City of London Corporation). Standing on the right is Adam Goodall, Investment Project Officer, DCSDC. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)
Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, pictured with a delegation from Goodenough College, London, held in the Mayor’s Parlour. Seated on her left is Alan McCormack (Dean, Goodenough College) and on right Catherine McGuinness CBE (Chair of the policy & resources committee, City of London Corporation). Standing on the right is Adam Goodall, Investment Project Officer, DCSDC. (Photo – Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)
 
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Spotlight interview – Aoife Warren, Partner, EY Northern Ireland.

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Aoife Warren is a Partner with the global professional services firm EY. As part of EY Northern Ireland’s team, Aoife works with clients across Ireland, the UK, and globally. She is also involved in EY’s plans to establish a new North West hub, and create 1,000 new jobs across Northern Ireland in the next five years. Donegal-born Aoife graduated from Queens University Belfast with a Masters in Computer-Based Learning and lived and worked in the city for around 20 years before relocating to Derry with her family in 2021.

What can you tell us about the new EY hub in the North West?

It is really exciting that as part of our growth aspirations, we will seek to establish a regional hub in the North West to access the breadth of talent in the area.

I’m delighted to be working with Rob Heron, EY NI Managing Partner, on developing the strategy to grow our business in this region.

While EY has its roots in audit, tax, corporate finance and consulting services, over recent years it has expanded rapidly in response to growing client demand to include new offerings in areas such as technology and people advisory services, strategy, Artificial Intelligence and data analytics, among others. 

It is our intention to ensure some of these new roles are based in the North West and accessible to all talent in NI.

Why was the North West chosen?

This area was chosen for growth and development as a result of the untapped talent and highly skilled workforce. We are excited to leverage the diverse skillsets here as well as support new skills development through the Assured Skills Academy Programme run by the Department for the Economy.

We also recognise the broader collective focus between government, local councils and higher education, working together to continue to grow the North West region as a place to work and live.

The recent developments in infrastructure, connectivity, and education are attractive to a global firm like EY, establishing itself in the region.

What type of roles will EY be hiring for over the next five years?

As EY expands and develops its operations in Northern Ireland, we see growth opportunities in areas such as technology, data and analytics, people and advisory and risk as well as supporting the development of our core corporate financial and consulting services.

Globally, EY operates a hybrid working model, a model we will also adopt in the North West. We are currently looking at office space to support our ambition to establish our hub as soon as possible.

What does your role involve?

I am a Consulting Partner in EY Northern Ireland, and I work with teams and clients across Ireland, the UK and globally.

I support clients who are preparing for a significant business transaction, this involves helping companies establish or improve business processes.

I am also People Lead for our Northern Ireland operation, which involves continuously reviewing how we are attracting, developing and retaining the best people for our business.

What is an average day at work like for you?

We operate a hybrid working model, so when I’m working from home – early morning is generally spent getting my six and seven-year olds ready for school!

If I am not working from home, I will generally leave early to beat the traffic and get to Belfast by 8am. Once or twice per month I will fly to London directly from Derry Airport for client meetings. The days are spent in a mix of internal strategy and operations meetings, and client facing or business development meetings. And sometimes managing to grab a coffee or lunch with someone during the day.

What I love about my role is that I have the opportunity to work on big, complex and often global, transactions but yet still live in Derry/Londonderry close to my family and friends. I feel very privileged to be able to get the best of both worlds.

Why did you decide to return to the North West?

We loved living in Belfast but my husband is a proud Derry man and I’m from Donegal, so our decision to move ‘home’ was very much driven by wanting to be nearer to family. There are a multitude of other factors including the friendly people, the close-knit community, housing, and lifestyle. We just love this part of the world – the great outdoors, parks, and the beautiful beaches of Donegal. We can finish work and go to the beach with the kids in the evening – when we get the weather!

How do you spend your time off?

I like to meet up with my friends and walk the ‘two bridges’ followed by coffee and breakfast along the quay. As a family we love to explore all the woods, beaches and parks of Derry and Donegal. I love art and dabble a little bit with painting. I try to do weekend workshops with local Derry/Donegal artist Natasha Barr. She runs them from her studio in Quigley’s Point overlooking Lough Foyle – it’s a great way to de-stress and take time-out. 

What advice would you have for someone considering a move back to the North West?

I think anyone considering it should weigh up all the factors, do their research and determine when the timing is right for them…but ultimately for us it has been a very positive move.

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