In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Anne Marie McGoldrick, director and co-founder of The Electric Storage Co.
What was your first job?
My first job was working in a bar with my father.
What qualifications do you have?
I originally trained as a nurse, before returning to university to complete my degree in English and politics and I also have a postgraduate diploma in business administration.
What do you attribute your success to?
It’s a combination of determination, overcoming obstacles, total self -belief and a willingness to always learn and develop.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I could be described as an extrovert! I really enjoy working with others, I am very driven and determined. I have strong leadership skills and I love to lead and inspire teams.
Who do you look up to in business?
Paul Pinder, who developed Capita. I met and worked with him and he is a very humble and unassuming character, despite his great success. He is very inclusive of individuals and a fantastic leader.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I believe that you get the best out of people by encouraging them, supporting them, challenging them, allowing them to make and learn from mistakes and making them feel included and valuable to an organisation by recognizing and rewarding them when a job is well done.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
I would like it if businesses here would unapologetically acknowledge our achievements and successes, taking the opportunity to say how great we are and congratulate ourselves on doing fantastic work. Northern Ireland businesses have a lot to offer, and I feel like we can be too modest and don’t celebrate our successes enough!
What website or app could you not do without?
Probably the most-used apps on my phone – Amazon, my banking app and the Classic FM app.
What was the last book you read?
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, it was a great read. I think he’s a wonderful writer and is very insightful. I can’t wait to read his next book!
What car do you drive?
A Mercedes EQC, fully electric.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
Not many people know this, but I’m a bit of an opera buff. I’ve travelled to Italy, America, Russia, Budapest and France among other places, to visit some of the great opera houses. Visiting every famous opera house is on my bucket list!
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
I would have to say my passion for opera and my love for Cushendall beach, where I first met my husband, Eddie, 43 years ago. We have been visiting and enjoying Cushendall beach ever since, in every season of the year, no matter the weather, it’s beauty never disappoints.
