In the High Flyers spotlight, this week is Greg Quinn, the founder of People HQ Ltd, based in Newtownards.People HQ provides its HR and recruitment consultancy services to companies across Northern Ireland.
What was your first job?
Working as a bar person in a local hotel, which was really my first experience of dealing with customers and was my first step into a customer-focused industry.
What qualifications do you have?
I have a bachelor’s degree in business studies, a master’s degree in human resource management and a higher national certificate in business and finance.
What do you attribute your success to?
I learned early on to value the relationships you make in life and business and I am a strong advocate of collaboration, all underlined with a strong work ethic.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I would like to think friends in life and business would describe me as a genuine, helpful, friendly and professional person with a gentle balance of being candid when needed.
Who do you look up to in business?
At an international level, I admire Keith J Cunningham, a renowned author who delivers no-nonsense advice, check out his book ‘The Road Less Stupid’. More locally, I have great respect for Mike Mullan, a HR director I once reported to in the industry. Working with Mike helped develop my leadership qualities considerably.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
Simply treat them as ‘people’. I like to give ownership and autonomy to my teams, balanced with the right level of accountability and coaching support.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
A better road network. Whilst we are doing a lot of our work online at present there are days when an on site visit for a client in Tyrone, Derry or Monaghan takes hours in the car to get there and home.
What website or app could you not do without?
Whatsapp. It’s a great app to communicate with clients, candidates, my business network, friends and family alike.
What was the last book you read?
‘A Crash to Success’ by Seamus Fox – a terrific read for helping with the mindset.
What car do you drive?
A Vauxhall Insignia – it’s a reliable workhorse for the miles that I do.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I’ve completed five marathons, with my favourite being the London marathon.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Playing the guitar and singing along – a great way to relax (for me anyway).
