Melissa Murray, Membership & Accounts Manager, Belfast Chamber
What was your first job?
My first graduate role was with IFQC Ltd (Independent Food Quality Certification), an Irish based accredited certification body that audited standards in food quality & safety, particularly in the seafood sector. My role centred on food safety and the BRC (British Retail Consortium) Global Standards certification programme, which was the focus area of my degree.
What qualifications do you have?
I studied Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition at Queen’s University and graduated with a 2:1. I also hold additional food safety certifications.
What do you attribute your success to?
A strong work ethic has been a key factor. I strive to do my best in whatever role I’m in and continuously look for more ways to develop and improve. Being a team player is important too, collaborating with colleagues to get the best outcome – and Belfast Chamber is a great example of a workplace in which everyone rolls up their sleeves and gets stuck in. Building and maintaining positive working relationships, as the Chamber does with our 600-strong membership, is also something that has undoubtedly helped further my career.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I’m warm, approachable and personable. I’m a caring person and wear my heart on my sleeve, which I believe is a strength though am conscious it can be seen as a weakness. My friends would probably describe me as a bit of a social butterfly. I love meeting new people, feel at home in social settings, and I’m always up for a laugh and a bit of banter. I also have quite a dry sense of humour, which tends to come out once you get to know me.
Who do you look up to in business?
I’m very inspired by strong female leaders, particularly those within the Belfast business community. Working in an all-female leadership environment at the Chamber, surrounded by driven and motivated women, has reinforced my belief that women should support and help each other as much as possible.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
My biggest frustration is the slow pace of decision-making, causing delays that can severely impact the business community. At Belfast Chamber, we advocate on behalf of members for quicker, clearer decision-making to allow businesses to grow and succeed.
What website or app could you not do without?
Workwise, it would be Xero. As an Accounts Manager, I use it on a daily basis for all invoicing and financial records, so it’s a must-have. Personally, Instagram would be my favourite, often sharing photos from holidays, time spent with family & friends and the everyday moments in-between.
What was the last book you read?
I tend to read more on holiday, so the most recent book I read was Happy Place by Emily Henry on my last trip away.
What car do you drive?
I live in a well-connected part of Belfast, so a few years ago I decided to give up my car. It’s been a more sustainable way to live, and it also means I can save money or put it towards things I enjoy more. These days I mostly get around by Glider or on foot, which feels good for both the environment and my step count.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I travelled to New Zealand in my early 20s and did a 12,000-foot skydive over Queenstown. At the time I didn’t think twice but I’d be nervous to do it now! For my 30th birthday, my friends and I did a tour of California, visiting Yosemite National Park and taking a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. That was pretty incredible.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Outside of work and family, travelling is probably my biggest passion. I love discovering new places, and I’m also really into music and going to concerts when I can. I’m a big movie and cinema fan too, so I usually have a fairly full social life.