Ireland Active recently hosted its annual Auditor Training Day, preparing the audit team for the upcoming National Quality Standard (NQS) Awards cycle. This session was an important opportunity to align new and returning auditors on the processes, standards, and expectations that underpin the NQS, ensuring a consistent and high-quality audit experience across all member facilities
We are excited to welcome two new auditors to the team:
Orla Brennan is an experienced quality assurance professional with a strong background in auditing, compliance, and operational management. She has held key roles with Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottlers, Kerry Spring Water, and Britvic, overseeing environmental, food safety, and quality initiatives, managing large teams, and leading third-party audits. Orla brings excellent communication, auditing, and training skills, combined with recent hands-on experience as a Swim Ireland instructor, working with adults, children, and people with disabilities.
Aaron Grant brings over 14 years of fitness industry experience and currently lectures in sports management at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS). He has held roles in club management, staff training, and sports development and is completing a PhD in service quality management within the Irish fitness sector. Aaron’s expertise bridges practical, operational, and academic insights, making him a valuable addition to the NQS audit team.
We are also proud to continue working with our experienced auditors:
Iain Foulger has over 35 years of leisure industry experience and is a former Ireland Active board member and past Chair. His deep industry knowledge and leadership background make him a cornerstone of the auditing team.
Claire Gibson has been involved with the NQS Awards since 2002 and has more than 25 years of experience managing and operating leisure clubs, bringing a wealth of operational and customer service expertise to every audit.
Dr. Joe Tierney is a lecturer in Sports Management and Physical Education at TUS Athlone with over 40 years experience in the leisure industry. Joe has advanced qualifications in exercise, nutrition, and health. His experience includes facility management, staff training, and outdoor adventure health, supporting a well-rounded and thorough audit approach.
Niamh Foley is a lecturer in Sport Management at TUS Athlone with 20 years of teaching experience and a background in leisure facility management. She specialises in areas such as leisure management, fitness instruction, and aquatics and holds additional qualifications as an RLSS tutor, NCEF tutor, ISO Lead Auditor, and swim teacher. Niamh has been an NQS auditor for 20 years and serves on the REPs Ireland council.
With this expert team in place, Ireland Active looks forward to another successful audit season, supporting the industry’s commitment to excellence, safety, and quality.
To learn more about National Quality Standards (NQS) visit: NQS – Ireland Active
