Business Person of the Year

Voting for the Business Person of the Year Award sponsored by Omagh Chamber of Commerce & Ulster Herald is now open. Voting will close at 10am on Tuesday 11th October 2022. Find out more about this year’s finalists and cast your vote below!

Avril Forsythe, The Goldmine Jewellers

Having worked in The Goldmine Jewellers in Omagh since 1992, Avril Forsythe took over the business in 1997 when the previous owner retired. In 2016, Avril took the decision to take on larger premises at the lower end of Main Street Complex.

The business has been through recessions but Avril has weathered the financial storms because people still shop for gifts and occasions. She has also benefited from a loyal customer base built up over many years.

During lockdown, the business launched a website and rejuvenated their social media presence.

Brenda O’Donnell, House of Vixen

Brenda O’Donnell, the owner of House of Vixen, strongly believes that you need to keep evolving and expanding. During her 12 years in business, she has already moved to a larger premises to ensure a wider variety of in-store stock.

Brenda sustained the business during Covid-19 pandemic by using social media, online deliveries and connecting with customers online. Having invested in a new website, the entrepreneur has also employed an in-house social media consultant and marketing executive.

She has watched all her staff blossom and flourish into their roles.

Jim McGrenaghan, Tyrone Diesel Systems

Tyrone Diesel Systems specialise in refurbishing and re-manufacturing the fuel systems of diesel engines.

Jim McGrenaghan began his business in a shed beside his home in County Fermanagh over 45 years ago, soon moving into premises in Omagh.

Moving twice more to accommodate his expanding business, Jim has heavily invested in new equipment to keep pace with emission laws and customer demand.

He has a good relationship with competitors as they often turn to him for help, knowing his firm has the know-how to get the job done.

Noleen Devlin, Hi Tec Hair Salon

Opening 33 years ago, Noleen Devlin has seen Hi Tec Hair Salon through two national recessions and the Covid-19 lockdowns. She believes that her work ethic has helped her resilience in business, also reacting to client needs by opening outside of working hours and offering extra services such as make-up application and lashes.

Noleen facilitates her staff to enter hair shows and inspires them to compete to win awards, which has really contributed to teambuilding.

She is proud to continue to be a strong local employer.

Ts & Cs: Please note one vote per IP address. Votes do not determine the overall winner of the award and are a means to raise awareness of your favourite businesses’ nomination. The winner of this category will be announced at the Omagh Business Awards on Friday 14th October 2022.