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 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
Jessica Gonsalves
Office Manager
Jess ensures the smooth operation of Ards Business Hub’s administrative functions, providing essential managerial support to the Chief Executive. As Office Manager, she oversees a small team and coordinates with external contractors to maintain efficient operations. Jess excels at multitasking and time management, handling interactions with team members, stakeholders, and building users with professionalism. Her role is key in maintaining an organized, effective workplace that supports the wider mission of Ards Business Hub.
- Phone:028 9181 9787
- Email:jessica@ardsbusiness.com
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
Tasmin Parkinson
Marketing Admin Executive
Tasmin is the creative force behind Ards Business Hub's marketing efforts, shaping the brand and driving a range of initiatives to raise awareness of our services. From crafting engaging campaigns that spotlight our property, conference spaces, and business support, to coordinating face-to-face events, she ensures that our presence is always strong and visible. With a flair for innovation and adaptability, Tasmin’s role is dynamic, constantly evolving to meet the needs of the organisation.
- Email:tasmin@ardsbusiness.com
Helen Graham
Property & Conference Coordinator
Helen oversees the efficient management of Ards Business Hub's meeting and conference spaces at Sketrick House. As Property and Conference Coordinator, she ensures that all facilities are maintained to the highest standard, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the business. Helen’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:helen@ardsbusiness.com
Jean Long
Administrative Assistant
Jean and Kelly 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 Kelly play a vital role in keeping Ards Business Hub running seamlessly.
- Email:jean@ardsbusiness.com
Kelly Barham
Administrative Assistant
Jean and Kelly 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 Kelly play a vital role in keeping Ards Business Hub running seamlessly.
- Email:kelly@ardsbusiness.com