
Nichola Lockhart
Chief Executive

Nichola Lockhart
Chief Executive
Nichola Lockhart leads Ards Business Hub with over 15 years of experience in finance and leadership, driving business growth and economic development in the Ards and North Down area. As Chief Executive, Nichola oversees strategic planning, partnerships, and service delivery, ensuring that the Ards Business Hub provides comprehensive support to startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. Under her leadership, Ards Business Hub offers vital resources such as training, advisory services, and access to funding opportunities. Known for her strategic vision and commitment to community engagement, Nichola is dedicated to building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that fosters local business success and regional prosperity.
- Email:nichola@ardsbusiness.com

Iain Simpson
Facilities Manager

Iain Simpson
Facilities Manager
Iain is the expert behind the smooth operation of Ards Business Hub’s physical infastructure. As Facilities Manager, he oversees the maintenance, safety, and day-to-day functionality of our buildings and equipment, ensuring that everything runs efficiently and meets health, safety, and regulatory standards. From coordinating repairs and inspections to managing budgets and vendor relationships, Iain ensures that our sites remain safe, secure, and compliant. His role also extends to sustainability efforts and energy efficiency, making sure we’re always operating in an environmentally responsible way. With his strong organisational and leadership skills, Iain plays a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency and workplace productivity.
- Email:iain@ardsbusiness.com

Andrea Downey
Financial Controller

Andrea Downey
Financial Controller
Meet Andrea, the financial expert keeping everything in perfect order at Ards Business Hub! As Financial Controller, Andrea manages everything from processing payments and invoices to preparing monthly management accounts. With her sharp eye for detail, she ensures all financial records are accurate and up to date, handling everything from reconciliations and VAT returns to overseeing accounts receivable and credit control. Andrea also plays a key role in financial analysis, helping us stay on track with our budget and supporting the year-end audit process. Whether it's payroll or preparing for Finance Committee meetings, Andrea ensures that all our financial processes run smoothly and efficiently!
- Email:andrea@ardsbusiness.com

Anne Murphy
Business Advisor


Tony McAllister
Business Advisor


Daniel Clendinning
Marketing Admin Coordinator

Daniel Clendinning
Marketing Admin Coordinator
As Marketing Admin Coordinator, Daniel plays an important role in the marketing of the Hub's varied services through our paid and organic marketing channels. Daniel comes from a creative and marketing educational and career background, working with major brands across the UK, and is keen to bring the creative skills he has acquired to the marketing content the Hub produces.
- Email:daniel@ardsbusiness.com

Kelly Barham
Meeting Space Coordinator

Kelly Barham
Meeting Space Coordinator
As Meeting Space Coordinator, Kelly oversees the efficient management of Ards Business Hub's meeting and conference spaces at Sketrick House. Kelly’s role balances customer service with administrative responsibilities, ensuring that all events and meetings are professionally organised and executed. Her dedication to client satisfaction makes her an integral part of the team, supporting businesses as they utilise our spaces.
- Email:kelly@ardsbusiness.com

Jean Long
Administrative Assistant

Jean Long
Administrative Assistant
Jean and Faye are the cornerstone of administrative support at Ards Business Hub. As Administration Assistants, they manage a wide range of tasks essential to the smooth running of our operations, including handling phone calls, responding to emails, managing queries, and greeting clients and visitors. They are the main point of contact for anyone entering our premises, ensuring that every interaction is handled efficiently and professionally. From filing documents to coordinating daily operations, Jean and Faye play a vital role in keeping Ards Business Hub running seamlessly.
- Email:jean@ardsbusiness.com

Faye Orr
Administrative Assistant

Faye Orr
Administrative Assistant
Jean and Faye are the cornerstone of administrative support at Ards Business Hub. As Administration Assistants, they manage a wide range of tasks essential to the smooth running of our operations, including handling phone calls, responding to emails, managing queries, and greeting clients and visitors. They are the main point of contact for anyone entering our premises, ensuring that every interaction is handled efficiently and professionally. From filing documents to coordinating daily operations, Jean and Faye play a vital role in keeping Ards Business Hub running seamlessly.
Faye has extensive customer service experience across a range of industries, including hospitality, travel and entrepreneurship.
- Email:jean@ardsbusiness.com

Nicola Lynn
Property and Facilities Coordinator

Nicola Lynn
Property and Facilities Coordinator
As Property & Facilities Coordinator, Nicky Lynn plays a key role in ensuring the smooth operation, safety, and compliance of Ards Business Hub’s buildings and equipment. Working closely with Iain Simpson, she helps maintain high standards across all facilities, ensuring everything runs efficiently and meets health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
With her strong organisational skills and a proactive approach to customer service, Nicky is instrumental in supporting tenants and enhancing workplace productivity. Her commitment to excellent customer service makes her a trusted point of contact for tenant queries and day-to-day operational needs.
- Email:info@ardsbusiness.com

Jim Mahood
Maintenance Operative
