Business

Hard work the key for action man Frankie

Frankie McDonald
Frankie McDonald Frankie McDonald

This week's High Flyer is Frankie McDonald, general manager of Ibis Hotel, Belfast city centre, which is owned and operated by Andras Hotels

What was your first job?

Glass collector in the Adair Arms Hotel in Ballymena

What qualifications do you have?

I have a degree in International Hospitality Management

What do you attribute your success to?

I would attribute my success to my strong work ethic and good leadership skills. I always strive to lead by example, do tasks to the best of my ability and to a high standard. I have a keen eye for detail and always approach tasks in a simple and logical manner. I am a quick thinker and believe that I am good a solving complex problems quickly. I always take care of my team and give them the tools they need to do their job because I believe if you look after your team they will look after the guests.

How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?

Honest, hardworking and approachable.

Who do you look up to in business?

Rajesh Rana, director of the Andras Hotel Group. Rajesh has been very successful in bringing strong, global brands to Belfast, he is also an excellent manager of people and skilled communicator and he leads by example – all qualities I strive for.

How do you get the best out of people who work for you?

I explain the reasons as to why we do things and the need for them. If people do not understand why they are doing something they will not be engaged in the concept. I always lead by example.

If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?

Easter licensing hours. They are out of date, inflexible and detrimental to the economy.

What website or app could you not do without?

My podcast app

What was the last book you read?

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink

What car do you drive?

An Alfa Romeo

Tell us something interesting about yourself?

I have completed three sky dives, a bungee jump, five zip lines, two white collar boxing matches, one white collar MMA match and a marathon all in the aid of charity.

What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?

My greatest passion is Gaelic football