Team
Richard Cairns
- Current / Previous Job
- Civil Servant. Previous: Constituency Office Manager and Caseworker
- Date Joined Board
- 07/09/2015
- Other Boards / Positions
- Antrim Grammar School - Governor Ballycraigy Primary School - Governor Steeple Nursery School - Governor
- Position
- HR, Audit and Finance Sub Committees
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Why did you decide to become a Board Member of Antrim Enterprise & what does your role as a Trustee entail?
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I want to see some more entrepreneurial start-up businesses in Antrim and to contribute to growing this sector. More businesses mean more job creation, increased investment and more consumer spending in Antrim.
My role as a Trustee primarily involves setting strategic goals for Antrim Enterprise to assess risks and identify opportunities. I owe a fiduciary duty to Antrim Enterprise, making sure I act at all times in the best interests of the charity. This means participating in decisions, making my views known, and to constructively challenge officers on Antrim Enterprise performance
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For anyone considering starting up what advice would you have for them?
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Research your product/service/idea. Seek out authentic experience in starting up a business. Use the skills and experience of Antrim Enterprise to help shape your idea, and they will put you in touch with entrepreneurs who have gone through a similar process.
Most of all, have belief in yourself.
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What are the main issues and barriers facing developing businesses today?
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The fear of failure prevents many people from taking a step to running their own business. Not knowing who to turn to for advice.
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Life outside current job/position on AEA board
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I volunteer as a school governor for three Antrim schools – Antrim Grammar, Ballycraigy Primary and Steeple Nursery. Education is crucial, and I want to make sure I contribute to making sure our schools are run correctly.
I enjoy playing golf, and watching Ulster Rugby.