Joe Duffy Group
Best People Awards 2025
On December 6th, 2025, Joe Duffy Group hosted the largest gathering in the company’s history to celebrate our exceptional team at the ‘Best People’ Awards.
While our annual event sparkles with glitz and glamour, at its heart it’s all about recognising our Best People and showcasing the values that define Joe Duffy Group: Teamwork, Best People, Respect, Drive, Ambition, and Fun & Enjoyment.
Held at Croke Park, the evening was buzzing with excitement, laughter, and pride, culminating in a heartfelt celebration of the talent, dedication, and passion our people bring to their roles every single day. The night was a true testament to the outstanding work of our employees, because at Joe Duffy Group, we don’t just have great people, we have the very best.
Audi Limerick
We are thrilled to congratulate Rachel Shanahan on receiving the the Joe Duffy Group ‘You Make The Difference’ Award 2025 for Audi Limerick!
Cathal Byrne, Head of Business, shared:
"Audi Limerick is proud to announce that the worthy recipient of the Joe Duffy ‘You Make The Difference’ award for 2025 is Rachel Shanahan. Rachel joined our team in Audi Limerick almost seven years ago and from the very beginning started to make a difference. Her sunny disposition is a welcoming presence in our showroom each morning as she delivers an exceptional performance maintaining our facility’s housekeeping regime. Rachel is truly one of us, and particularly at this festive time of the year, when she is our CSSO (Chief Secret Santa Officer) and Rear Admiral of the Decorating Committee. Our customer offering is enhanced by Rachel’s commitment each and every day and for that we are very grateful. In short, Rachel is one of our very Best People and from the Fun & Enjoyment to the Drive, the embodiment of our dearly-held Joe Duffy Values and Virtues."
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Rachel Shanahan, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Volkswagen Swords
We are delighted to congratulate Conor O'Donnell on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Volkswagen Swords!
Rebekah Doyle, Service Manager, shared:
"I am proud to celebrate our incredible Master Technician Conor, whose unmatched dedication, skill, and work ethic have earned them the Best People award. Known for tackling every challenge with precision and positivity, he consistently goes above and beyond to keep our customers confidently on the road. We’re grateful to have such a hardworking, talented, and inspiring professional on our team."
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Conor O'Donnell, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Volkswagen Navan
We are thrilled to celebrate Wiktor Suchan on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Volkswagen Navan!
Tony Santoro, Service Manager, shared:
"Wiktor consistently goes above and beyond, meticulously preparing each job in advance to ensure everything runs smoothly. His organisation and proactive approach mean that every customer receives the WOW factor, making their experience with us seamless and memorable."
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Wiktor Suchan, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Athlone
We are delighted to celebrate Marcin Piela on being named a winner for the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Athlone!
Alexandra Karch, Marcin’s manager, shared:
"Marcin consistently demonstrates outstanding skill and professionalism, tackling every task with precision and care. His proactive approach and attention to detail ensure our customers always receive the highest level of service, creating a truly exceptional experience every time."
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Marcin Piela, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Volvo Kia
We are thrilled to celebrate Sean Kelly on receiving the Joe Duffy Volvo Kia ‘Best People’ Award!
Simon Westby, Aftersales Manager, shared:
"Sean really stood out this year as he continued to set an excellent example for the rest of the team in the workshop. Sean has set the service standard for Volvo, and he is also a fantastic mentor to the younger or less experienced members of the team. Sean’s calm manner and clear explanation of work carried out is invaluable to our customers, who appreciate his expertise and knowledge of the brand. The selection of Sean in this year’s awards was an easy choice because he always goes above and beyond in everything he does for the whole team."
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Sean Kelly, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Volkswagen North
We are thrilled to celebrate Korretta Kukenas on receiving the Joe Duffy Volkswagen North ‘Best People’ Award!
Fraser Durkin, Sales Manager, shared:
"Korretta winning the award is richly deserved. She has been a consistent top performer due to her drive and commitment. She is great with staff and customers alike, everyone loves her, and she is a real asset to the team."
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Korretta Kukenas, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Land Rover
We are thrilled to congratulate Ryan Harris on winning the Joe Duffy Land Rover ‘Best People’ Award for 2025!
Paul Dunne, Workshop Controller shared:
"We are absolutely delighted to congratulate Ryan on winning the Joe Duffy Land Rover Best People Award for 2025. This is a tremendous achievement and truly well deserved. Ryan’s exceptional customer feedback, outstanding product knowledge, and strong team spirit set him apart every day. He consistently embodies the values we pride ourselves on at Joe Duffy Group; Ambition, Drive, Best People, Respect, Fun, and Enjoyment. His commitment to these values is admired by colleagues and customers alike. A massive congratulations to Ryan for all his hard work, dedication, and the positive impact he continues to make. Well done!"
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Ryan Harris, and Gavin Hydes.
Audi Approved plus: Drogheda
We are delighted to congratulate Bart Walkowicz on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Audi Approved plus: Drogheda!
Paul Callan, Sales Manager, shared his praise saying:
“I am absolutely delighted to see Bart pick up the Audi Drogheda Best People Award 2025. Bart constantly receives excellent feedback from customers, and he demonstrates the highest levels of customer service each year. His product knowledge is unrivalled across the entire Audi division. Bart is a great team player and is always willing to help no matter what the task and for and of these attributes he is a deserved winner”
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Bart Walkowicz, and Gavin Hydes.
ZuCar Drogheda
Gia Petrauskaite has been recognised with this year’s Best People award for ZuCar Drogheda, a testament to her unwavering professionalism and exceptional service. Known for consistently going above and beyond for customers, she has become an invaluable presence within the team.
John O’ Doherty, ZuCar Brand Director, shared his praise saying:“Gia is an outstanding employee. She consistently goes above and beyond for our customers, showing exceptional professionalism and care in every interaction. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for her role make her a true asset to the team, and this is why she was thoroughly deserving of this award.”
From left to right: John O' Doherty, Gia Petrauskaite, and Gavin Hydes.
Team of the Year : The Porsche Aftersales Team
The Porsche Aftersales Team was recognised as 'Team of the Year' for 2025. Their unwavering commitment to customer care, meticulous attention to detail, and relentless drive to elevate the ownership experience set them apart. Through exceptional teamwork, technical expertise, and a genuine passion for the brand, they consistently go above and beyond for every customer. They are an inspiration across the business and an invaluable part of Porsche Centre Dublin.
Brian Downes – Head of Business, commenting on their win said:“The Porsche Aftersales team consistently strives to set the gold standard in excellence and collaboration. Their relentless pursuit of success, coupled with an unwavering spirit, has culminated in this well‑deserved recognition. Their steadfast commitment to delivering outstanding customer service is deeply embedded in their processes, ensuring that excellence remains at the heart of everything they do.”
From left to right: Gavin Hydes, and the Porsche Aftersales Team.
Porsche Centre Dublin
Since joining Porsche Centre Dublin in 2022 as a new apprentice to the motor industry, Alessandro Passarini has shown exceptional dedication, work ethic, and passion for the Porsche brand. His technical ability and academic results speak for themselves, but it’s his commitment to continuous learning and his willingness to support the team that truly set him apart and marked him out as this year’s winner of the Best People Award.
Service Manager - John Mahon shared his praise saying: “Alessandro's dedication, hard work, and passion for Working in Porsche is admirable, shown exceptional skill/ academic results , his commitment to learning and being an excellent team player will lead Alessandro to a successful bright future”. I am delighted to have Alessandro on our team! Well done!” Congratulations, Alessandro, from all your colleagues at Porsche Centre Dublin!
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Alessandro Passarini, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy BMW
Jose Gabayaran’s attention to detail, relentless standards, and genuine care for both customers and colleagues make a tangible difference every single day and made him stand out as this year’s Best Person winner for Joe Duffy BMW.
His hard work ensures every BMW leaves the dealership looking its absolute best, a true reflection of the brand and the team behind it.
Service Manager - Dominykas Prielaidas had high praise for Jose when asked for a comment on his win:“Huge congratulations to Jose on winning the Joe Duffy Best Peoples Award! Jose brings exceptional dedication and positivity to work every single day. His attention to detail as a valetor, his pride in every job and his genuine care for our customers really sets him apart. We are truly proud to have him on our team!”
From left to right: Gavin Hydes, Jose Gabayaran, and Steve Rayner.
Joe Duffy Financial Services
We are delighted to congratulate Fiona Smith on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Financial Services!
Caroline Jones, Sales Manager commented: “Fiona was truly deserving of this award. She is a fantastic team player who plays an integral and highly valued role in the Joe Duffy Financial Services team. Her positivity, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond make a genuine difference every day. Fiona’s hard work, dedication, and consistently high standards shine through in everything she does, and we are delighted to see her recognised with this well-earned award.”
Fiona Commented: "I was very shocked , but also very grateful to receive the recognition. Big thanks to the management team for the guidance and to the Leasing team for backing me up"
From left to right: Steve Rayner, Fiona Smith, and Gavin Hydes,
Group Support
We are delighted to congratulate Vanessa Rudge on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Group Support!
John Tuohy, Financial Controller commented: “Vanessa is an incredibly deserving winner of this award. As Purchase Ledger Controller, she brings exceptional organisation, accuracy, and dedication to her role every single day. Her calm approach, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable part of the team. Vanessa’s professionalism and consistently high standards set a brilliant example, and we are delighted to see her hard work recognised with this award.”
Vanessa commented: "It's an honour to be recognised with this award. Thank you to the Accounts team, John Tuohy and Gavin for their trust and support. This recognition motivates me to continue delivering my best every day’’
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Vanessa Rudge, and Gavin Hydes.
Manager of the Year
We are delighted to congratulate Lidia Naveira on receiving the Joe Duffy Group Manager of the Year ‘Best People’ Award.
Gavin Hydes, Group CEO commented:"Lidia has been part of the Joe Duffy Group Finance Department for over a decade now, and her contributions have been nothing short of exceptional. Throughout her tenure, Lidia has been an integral part of the department, demonstrating remarkable commitment, hard work, and unwavering support for the wider group. Her dedication to her role and her colleagues has made her a true standout, and she consistently demonstrates and lives by our core values of teamwork, respect, drive and ambition. This honour is a testament to her dedication and the positive influence she has had on our team and the entire Group”
Lidia commented: "I am really grateful for this award, and I’m especially happy it shines a light on the finance team and the important behind-the-scenes work that we do to support the business every day!"
From left to right: Lidia Naveira, and Gavin Hydes.
Dealership of the Year
We are delighted to congratulate Joe Duffy Kia North Road on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Dealership of the Year’ Award!
Commenting on the win, Conor Kilduff Operations Director:"In just two years since joining the Kia brand, the North Road team has delivered exceptional year-on-year market share growth and proudly achieved the number-one KPI performance in the Group. Their commitment to strong customer values, continuous development, and a culture where every team member can truly flourish is what has set them apart. Winning Dealership of the Year is a testament to their hard work, passion, and relentless drive to be the best.
Congratulations Joe Duffy Kia North Road"
From left to right: Gavin Hydes, and Joe Duffy Kia North Road Team.
Audi North Dublin
We are delighted to congratulate Purgun Seewanand on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Audi North Dublin!
Service Manager -Darren Lyons had high praise for Purgun when asked for a comment on his win:"Purgun, Valet Team Leader, has been honoured with the Joe Duffy Best People Award for his outstanding work this year. His dedication, and positive spirit have elevated both his team and the customer experience. Always leading by example, Purgun consistently goes above and beyond in everything he does. A huge congratulations to Purgun, this achievement is truly well deserved".
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Purgun Seewanand, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Bodyshop
We are delighted to congratulate Hayley Ledwidge on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Bodyshop!
Service Manager -Liam Sammon had high praise for Hayley when asked for a comment on her win:"Hayley deserved her best people award for demonstrating qualities and achievements that go above and beyond the standard expectations of her role. Hayley can pivot quickly to new demands, embrace change, and maintain high performance during challenging times showcases her resilience and critical value to the organization. She actively seeks opportunities for learning, skill development, and taking on increased responsibility. Ultimately, the award acknowledges her hard work, dedication, and the significant positive impact she has made on our team."
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Hayley Ledwidge, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Kia North Road
We are delighted to congratulate Sinead Mahon on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Kia North Road.
Commenting on the win, Gary Moran, Head of Business:“Since joining us seven years ago as an Apprentice Business Manager, Sinead Mahon has continued to grow and develop within Joe Duffy Kia North Road. Since taking on the Kia brand on North Road in 2023, she has played an important role in supporting our market share growth. Her consistent focus on customer loyalty, retention, and service has made a real difference to the business. We’re pleased to recognise Sinead’s contribution and the commitment she brings to her role every day.”
Sinead commented: I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had over the past seven years, starting as an Apprentice Business Manager. Taking on the Kia brand on North Road in 2023 has been a great experience, and I’m glad to have played a part in our progress. I appreciate the recognition and look forward to continuing to support the team.
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Sinead Mahon, and Gavin Hydes.
Joe Duffy Cork
We are delighted to congratulate Daniel Olden on receiving the Joe Duffy Group ‘Best People’ Award for Joe Duffy Cork!
Colm O’Sullivan, Joe Duffy Cork Service Manager commented:“Congratulations to Daniel at our Joe Duffy Cork dealership on winning this well-deserved award. Since joining us in 2022 as an apprentice technician, Daniel has consistently demonstrated dedication, skill, and a real passion for learning. He goes above and beyond in his work, shows great teamwork, and has quickly become a valued member of the dealership. This award recognises not just his hard work, but the positive attitude and commitment that make him stand out.”
From left to right: Conor Kilduff, Daniel Olden, and Gavin Hydes.
Gerry Ryan Cup
Congratulations to Audi North Dublin, who triumphed with a 5-4 win to be crowned Gerry Ryan Cup Champions 2025! In remembering Gerry, it was truly a night to remember for everyone involved.
"So proud of our Audi North Dublin team for clinching the Gerry Ryan Cup this year. Their hard work, teamwork, and commitment to excellence have truly shone through, and this achievement is a testament to their dedication. The Gerry Ryan Cup represents the success of our incredible team, and I couldn’t be prouder of each and every member. Here’s to a fantastic team that continues to raise the bar and exceed expectations. Congratulations to all, this victory is well-deserved!"
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Gavin Hydes, and the Audi North Dublin Team.
Bill Thompson Cup
Congratulations to Joe Duffy Land Rover on winning the 2025 Bill Thompson Cup. This is a fantastic achievement and a well-deserved recognition of the team’s hard work and commitment.
The Bill Thompson Cup is a special part of our history, honouring Bill Thompson, who joined the Group in 1970 as joint Managing Director. Highly respected in both the motoring industry and golfing circles, Bill was admired for his expertise, leadership, and the lasting impact he made on our company.
Bill sadly passed away in 2022, 50 years after co-founding our company, and this cup remains a proud tribute to his legacy.
From left to right: Geoff Walsh, Joe Duffy Land Rover Team, and Gavin Hydes.
After the awards ceremony, the room was buzzing with joy and pride as everyone at the Joe Duffy Group came together to celebrate our remarkable team. It was a special moment to recognise the talent, dedication, and hard work that make our employees truly exceptional.
Congratulations to each and every recipient of a Best People award. Your passion, commitment, and outstanding contributions have made a real impact across the Joe Duffy Group, and your achievements are an inspiration to us all.