Virtual outsourcing agency Get Ahead has welcomed its first franchisee in the Republic of Ireland, continuing its global expansion. Linda McCormick will be running Get Ahead Ireland from her base in Wicklow, just south of Dublin.
Linda has over 20 years of experience in hospitality in operations, sales and marketing roles. With a wide range of skills and decades of experience, she was keen to find a way to work more flexibly around her family.
“Post-COVID, many of us have been thinking about what’s important and how we can do things differently,” she said. “I loved working in hospitality, but I also wanted to find a way of spending more time with my children. I started researching different options and came across Get Ahead. I could immediately see the potential of an outsourcing agency, allowing people to focus on what’s important to them. Time is such a precious commodity. I know so many busy working families and business owners who would benefit from outsourcing.”
Being part of a franchise network really appealed to Linda, who had concerns about going it alone by starting her own business.
“Everything founder Rebecca said about flexibility and work-life balance matched what the other franchisees said. They spoke very highly about the genuine support they get. I know I am going into business for myself, but not by myself. The support of a team around me, with people sharing their experiences and insight, works for me. Plus, having a ready-made team of over 70 business experts means I can start helping businesses and individuals in Ireland straightaway,” she explained.
Over the next few months, Linda will focus on connecting with SMEs in Dublin, Wicklow, Leinster and surrounding counties, raising awareness of what Get Ahead’s team of virtual experts can offer.
“We have such a dynamic pool of talent here in Ireland but for the small business owner, finding the right talent when you need it can be challenging. That’s where I see Get Ahead playing a vital role in the future of resilient businesses post-COVID. I strongly believe outsourcing can offer the best solution, enabling companies to stay flexible and agile while capitalizing on growth opportunities,” said Linda.
The past 12 months have seen Get Ahead open a new franchise in Australia and win several awards, including the HSBC British Franchise Awards 2021 and the Prestige Awards 2022. Founder Rebecca Newenham concluded: “It has been a real joy meeting Linda and working with her to launch Get Ahead in Ireland. Each franchisee brings a unique set of skills to our growing portfolio, and it is a pleasure to see them all learning from each other. I am confident Linda will do an excellent job opening up the Irish market for us.”
