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AS ONE of his first duties as mayor of Kerry, Councillor Michael O’Shea led tributes to FEXCO founder Brian McCarthy. Friends, family and colleagues of Mr McCarthy gathered at Kerry County Buildings for the civic reception today.

Mayor O'Shea said: “I am really delighted that one of my first official functions as Mayor of Kerry since I took up the role last month is the hosting of this very special occasion for a man who represents the very best of Kerry."

He added: “I can think of no more deserving recipient for a civic reception than Brian McCarthy. Kerry has many heroes, for example in our Gaelic Games, in social services, in tourism, community groups and the economic and business sectors. Nobody can dispute that Brian McCarthy is another of those heroes – a true Kerry hero.”

Describing Mr McCarthy as “one of life’s gentlemen”, the mayor added: “He is a quiet, polite and humble man – but that humility disguises a sharp brain, a steely tenacity and a strong determination to achieve goals. A small financial services business founded in Killorglin in 1981 would not have become the international success story it is today without that tenacity and determination.”

Brian McCarthy has overseen the enormous development and growth of FEXCO during the 35 years since its foundation – and with remarkable success. Prior to founding the company, Brian had worked with AIB for almost 20 years. “He clearly saw an opening for a specialised financial services company and he did not hesitate in following his dream,” said Cllr O’Shea.

The pursuit of that dream now means that FEXCO employs more than 2,000 people in Ireland and across the globe. “It has been a remarkable success story. From its Killorglin headquarters it provides a range of financial services to some of the world’s biggest brands. I think it is significant that Brian and his company have never forgotten their roots and that FEXCO has retained its base in Killorglin as its international base. That shows Brian’s love for his home town,” said Cllr O’Shea.

“In that regard, Brian McCarthy has made a wonderful contribution to rural Ireland. I read that Brian was once asked about why FEXCO would not move to the Financial Services Centre in Dublin. Brian said (and I quote): ‘This business can be run from the North Pole provided you have the right people. But the view is better here in Killorglin.’

“They say that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree and today, Brian’s sons Denis – who is now CEO – and John, who is Executive Director, are continuing their father’s effort and tradition in the company. Brian has recruited the very best of directors, managers and staff over the years and they have worked closely together to ensure that FEXCO continues to be such a success.”

Mr McCarthy was named Ernst and Young International Entrepreneur of the Year in 2002 and has also received the Seán Lemass Award for Excellence in Marketing.

Earlier this year, he was chosen as the Kerry Person of the Year by the Kerry Association in Dublin. “It was the first time somebody not born in Kerry – Brian being born in Cork of course – had received this particular honour,” noted Cllr O’Shea.

The mayor concluded: “Brian – you are an inspiration to our county and a treasure in Kerry. No words can adequately describe the gratitude of the people of Kerry for what you have achieved.”

Councillor Michael Cahill had proposed the honour for Mr McCarthy “in recognition of his contribution both as an employer and for his wonderful work and generosity to charities and voluntary groups in Killorglin, in Kerry and throughout the country”.