Grace O'Shaughnessy Email & Phone Number

Ireland

Ireland

Feb 08 – Jan 23 Java Republic Managing DirectorFor the past 15 years, I have held responsibility and accountability for the management of the business and the strategic direction of Java Republic in Ireland. I have led a team of the most talented and passionate people in the industry emphasising team and customer-centric culture. Establishing a world-class Roasting facility in Dublin remains a highlight during my tenure. In my capacity as Managing Director, I was responsible for navigating and transforming the business through many challenges and opportunities with a particular focus on planning, developing, and implementing commercial strategies while repositioning and strengthening the business for growth resulting in Java Republic’s successful acquisition by Cafento in 2019 Jan 06 – Feb 08 Java Republic General ManagerI joined a small but passionate and customer-centric team in an Operations capacity initially to establish greater structure and process as the business grew before assuming the role of General Manager within 12 months. During this period, I held accountability for the business, and directed and aligned the organisational structure to support significant market growth while project managing a new 25,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility.

In my capacity as Operations Manager, I worked closely with two of Ireland's leading female entrepreneurs of that time, enabling and supporting a committed team to deliver a superb range of products to both private label and branded requirements within FMCG. Central to my role was the evolution of automated and planned production and packing processes to achieve increased efficiency without impacting the premium quality customers had come to expect along with the management and leadership of a diverse team, while providing customers with solutions to their needs and managing the negotiation of third-party supplier contracts.

Initially joined Kylemore as a QA officer overseeing the execution and implementation of their quality management system while developing and enhancing their QA culture. Promoted to Bakery Manager within 12 months and held responsibility for the development and direction of new product lines from concept to launch while re-engineering product recipes to eliminate production problems to zero waste. Planned and scheduled resources to meet production demands. As Kylemore planned the closure of the facility in 2001, I moved to support the HR team in relocating significant numbers of the wider team to new employment.

Executive Mba, Business Administration And Management, General

Postgrad Diploma, Management Practice & Consumer Foods

Diploma, Food Science