In this section of the website, we introduce you to one of our firms. Up next is O’Brien Neenan & Co run by Managing Director Richard O’Brien and his team. Read his answers to our questions to get to know him and the firm.
What do you like about working for your firm?
“This firm was founded by my father in 1978. I like the fact that it is a family-run business with my brother and son-in-law also in the firm.”
What are in your words the strengths of your firm?
“The strength of the firm is its team and clients. The team builds relationships with our clients over time. Team members are very loyal to the firm and most have been working for the firm for over ten years. Client retention and loyalty are also very high. We very rarely lose a client and most of our new business comes from referrals from existing clients.”
“A happy team means happy clients.”
Richard O’Brien, Managing Director
What are the most valuable lessons you have learned at your firm?
“The most valuable lesson I have learned is how to look after the team and the clients. Each member of the team has their own challenges, desires, and needs. Communicating with them on their level helps build trust and loyalty. This all transfers down to how the team deals with the complexities of the clients’ needs and requirements. A happy team means happy clients.”
What is the most rewarding experience you have had at your firm so far?
“The rewards spring from helping clients achieve what they require from their business and helping the team achieve their individual goals. The feedback from clients when you do something that really makes a difference to them and their lives is hugely rewarding.”
What result you achieved for a client are you most proud of?
“What I have achieved for clients have been many and varied over the years. Helping a couple of clients establish a new League of Ireland soccer club and watch them achieve great results for the club over the years is something I am most proud of.”
“The firm of the future must be technology-driven and people orientated.”
Richard O’Brien, Managing Director
What is your favourite statement that you regularly use when advising your clients?
“Use technology to achieve your goals.”
Which conditions do you think a ‘firm of the future’ should meet?
“The firm of the future must be technology-driven and people orientated. While we talk of our clients as businesses, they are ultimately all made up of people. Our teams are all made up of people and all of our interactions are with people.”
How do you see the future of your firm from your perspective?
“I would like to see the firm become more integrated into the Xeinadin movement. As a relatively small firm, I expect that there will be mergers of smaller firms with bigger firms, and that will be exciting for the team and secure the future of the services provided to our clients.”