FD renames offices in memory of founder

First Derivatives (FD) has announced that it has renamed its two offices in Newry in honour of its late founder Brian Conlon.

Canal Quay is now Brian Conlon House while the Marcus Square office will be known as The Conlon Building.

With July 28 marking the first anniversary of Brian’s death, the firm has also announced the inaugural winner of the ‘Spirit Of Brian Conlon’ award, an initiative open to all employees at FD.

The award recognises and rewards an employee that embodies Brian’s core values of being a positive corporate citizen, having a passion for lifelong learning and being focused on excellent customer service.

A Newry man himself, Brian was renowned for entrepreneurship, drive and ambition. He grew FD into an international leader in consulting and enterprise software. Brian’s commitment to Newry and Northern Ireland continues to create significant employment opportunities in the region.

In addition, the company’s policy of embedding graduates from across the world in Newry to start their careers with extensive training and work experience has placed both Newry and Northern Ireland on the global technology map.

Commenting on the initiatives, the Conlon family said: “They are a wonderful and fitting tribute to Brian’s memory.

“First Derivatives is part of the fabric of Newry having welcomed graduates, colleagues, customers and many other visitors from all over the world for more than 25 years.

“We are all immensely proud of what Brian achieved and the naming of the buildings, including our Group headquarters, and launch of the award will be a lasting legacy to the successful business he created.”

Brian started the company in his mother’s spare bedroom in 1996. It now employs more than 2400 people globally and counts many of the world’s top leading investment banks as customers along with firms like Aston Martin Red Bull Racing. Despite facing a difficult year since Brian’s passing, FD’s continued growth is testament to the strength and resilience that Brian instilled in the firm and continues to be fundamental to FD’s ongoing success story.

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