Paul Flavin graduated from DBS in the 1990’s, and is now CEO of Healthcare Technology Company, Motech, who are based in Grand Canal Dock and specialise in assisted living. Motech are recognised as a global leader in their industry and were the first technology provider to be ranged as an NHS product. Paul told us his story about how DBS helped him carve out a career as a successful businessman...
“I went from DBS to IBM and later joined Microsoft, starting a 20+ year career with US multinationals.
One of the key topics of discussion during my interview with IBM was the thesis I wrote in my final year at DBS: "The impact of ‘own branded’ products on the great American Brand." This looked at the brand erosion and subsequent company value depreciation on great American brands with the advent of ‘white label / own branded’ goods flooding the market.
My ability to assemble a reasonable thesis was purely down to the fact that I had Fergal Brophy as my Marketing Lecturer! Fergal, was a complete visionary. I am completely genuine when I say that Fergal’s lectures were never missed – regardless of what else was going on in Dublin! Fergal’s impact on me at that time was illustrative of DBS in general.
I look back now and can appreciate what DBS provided for its students when they brought in lecturers with real world credibility complimented by superb guest speakers on a regular basis. In my final year we were fortunate to have Annrai O’Toole attend a number of our lectures to tell us his story. Annrai, was the founder of Iona Technologies. Iona went on to become a huge global technology company and Ireland’s leading light long before Google, LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter took up residence in Dublin. I remember clearly the messages that were imparted to us over 20 years ago.
The experience I had in DBS was not purely an academic exercise, it was a highly practical degree with exposure to the thought leaders of the day. It secured me a spot on IBM’s management programme well ahead of peers in other colleges and universities. DBS was an incredibly energetic place to be – right in the centre of town, with all the fun that provides! There was a buzz to the place that made it a happy place and I don’t know if that is replicated elsewhere.
I look back with great fondness on my time at DBS. I had great fun but it also served me well – we got the balance right. I am in regular contact with a lot of my alumni who have gone on to do extremely well in their pursuits.
I would recommend DBS highly and I am encouraged by the engagement they keep with the alumni for the betterment of the college.