In The Spotlight: Gary scores in sport, business and life

In the Spotlight this week is Gary Bonner, director of restructuring and insolvency at Gildernew & Co

What was your first job?

I was 16 and needed a part-time job. A friend was going to a McDonald’s recruitment session and asked if I wanted to join him. Next thing I knew, I was working my first shift. It’s a tough industry and a challenging introduction to the world of work. I’ve endless respect for McDonald’s workers, and remind myself of this every time I order my McChicken Sandwich meal.

What qualifications do you have?

At Queen’s University Belfast I achieved a BSc joint hons undergraduate degree in economics and management followed by a Master of Business Administration at University of Ulster. One week after graduating from the MBA, I started my training contract and went on to become a qualified chartered accountant and am now a Fellow with Chartered Accountants Ireland.

What do you attribute your success to?

When it comes to career goals, it’s important to attach yourself to good mentors and role models – those at the top of their game. This helps you learn on a daily basis. On top of that – never be afraid to seek advice and ask good questions.

How would you describe yourself?

Loyal, hard-working and a family man.

Who do you look up to in business?

As I’ve said, having good mentors is vital, and I’m lucky to work alongside Gerard Gildernew. His ability to share from his experience and his great insights makes every day a positive learning experience. At the start of my career, I was also very fortunate to work alongside Paula Watson and the late Arthur Boyd. I’ve also admired the leadership skills of Sir Alex Ferguson, particularly his ability to manage people and rebuild teams over multiple generations, constantly evolving within an ever-changing environment.

How do you get the best out of people?

Providing clarity around a task is vital. Managing by consensus is also important to ensure everyone on the team feels valued and that their voice is heard.

What website or app could you not do without?

WhatsApp – perfect for keeping in touch with friends and family.

What was the last book you read?

Mind Gym by Gary Mack, which focuses on the psychology of sport for athletes and coaches at the top of their game. A positive mindset is essential – in sport, business, and life in general. It also instils the adage ‘if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail’.

What car do you drive?

A Peugeot 2008. Not very exciting! The need to taxi two young children, who have a hectic social life has slightly curtailed my car goals to a ‘family wagon’ for now. I’m lucky that I walk to and from work each day. I could claim to be doing my bit for the e

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

When a business is owed money, the costs of recovering this debt can be very expensive, making it uncommercial to pursue. Surely this isn’t right?nvironment, but in reality, it’s the best way to rebalance the brain between the office and home.

What’s your greatest passion outside work and family

I’m a massive Manchester United fan, although at the minute that does nothing to decrease stress levels.

Tell us something interesting about yourself?

I represented Northern Ireland schoolboys in soccer from U-14s to U-17s and once scored a hat trick of free kicks against Napoli in the Milk Cup (now Super Cup NI). This is where my footballing career peaked!