Jacqueline O’Donovan, managing director of O’Donovan Waste Disposal, was last night recognised for her commitment to cyclist safety in London, at the 30th anniversary of The Irish World Awards. Jacqueline was presented with the award in recognition of her passion and drive to fundamentally improve road safety in the capital and championing the protection of cyclists and other vulnerable road users.
The Irish World Awards, which took place at the Novotel in Hammersmith on Monday evening, celebrated 30 years of unbroken publication and looked back at an unforgettable 30 years for Irish people in Britain. A number of awards were presented throughout the evening to recognise the influential individuals who have made an extraordinary difference through their respective roles.
Mine was Safety so not industry, but not sure what you call it?
Jacqueline has cemented her place in the construction and waste industry having overcome the death of her father – who left his native County Cork in Ireland to found O’Donovan Waste – when she was just 17. But she has continued his legacy by setting new industry standards for others to follow, establishing a reputation that dispels any stereotypes of a woman being unable to succeed in a sector traditionally dominated by men. Her work has fundamentally changed the face of UK transport policy, both in terms of safety and sustainability, and her passion to develop her entire workforce sees her deliver in-house training for all, as well as devising safety training that is applied industry-wide.
Jacqueline’s commitment and tenacity to succeed sees O’Donovan now turn over more than £19.25m, employ 160 staff and operates a fleet of 90 HGVs as one of the South East’s leading waste management companies operating within London and the surrounding area.
Jacqueline O’Donovan, MD of O’Donovan Waste Disposal, said: “It was a complete surprise to receive this award last night, but I’m honoured to be recognised by such a prestigious newspaper. It was wonderful to celebrate 30 years of The Irish World with so many great people.
“I’m proud to collect this award on behalf of the family business and its great Irish heritage, and we’ll be sure to continue our work to further improve road safety in London, to make it a welcoming place for cyclists and vulnerable road users.”
