From Logistics to Leadership
Having begun her career in global logistics, where she spent 15 years developing her customer-first approach and strategic thinking, Áine then moved into facilities management, where she has remained ever since, applying the principles of customer-centric asset management, business continuity, and aligning workplace strategy with organisational goals.
Leading Growth and Building Partnerships
Áine has established long-term, sustainable partnerships with both public and private-sector customers. She supported her customers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, where her agility and flexibility were evident through contract re-engineering focused on cost reduction, sustainability, and productivity during uncertain times.
For the past 13 years, Áine has led OCS in Ireland, overseeing consistent double-digit organic growth following the re-engineering of the Irish business after the pandemic. Each year, she has delivered a profitable business for shareholders, positioning OCS among the top five FM companies in Ireland. She has also mentored several colleagues, supporting their career aspirations and professional development.
Innovation, Inclusion and Impact
Her team has also embraced innovation to enhance service delivery, from smarter asset management to data-led performance tracking. Áine sees technology as an enabler rather than a replacement for people, helping teams deliver better outcomes for customers.
Amid ongoing geopolitical and economic challenges, Áine maintains her customer-focused approach, combining technical expertise with strategic leadership. She stays dedicated to sustainability, operational efficiency, and promoting diversity and inclusion within the FM sector.
“Leadership is power, and how that power is utilised shapes the culture of the organisation you lead. My leadership philosophy rests on the principle of kindness through action, as I think kindness goes a long way to encouraging people to blossom in an organisation. Working with good grace, professionalism, and dignity are the pillars for a successful and profitable business.”
Aine Mulcahy
Managing Director – OCS Ireland
Recently, Áine’s leadership and contributions to the FM sector in Ireland were recognised when she received the Leader of the Year Award in a Large Company, as well as the Overall Leader Award in Ireland at the Women in FM Awards.
Her advice to women considering a career in FM is empowering and straightforward:
“Absolutely go for it. Take every opportunity that’s afforded to you, learn from your mistakes, and celebrate your successes.”
Looking to the future, Áine’s optimism is infectious.
“The world of FM is changing; we’re seeing significant advances in technology, AI, and smarter ways of working, but it’s still a people-focused service. The real power lies in marrying innovation with humanity. Having the right technology to support great people, that’s where the magic happens.”
