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At CluneTech, we have an extensive Milestone Recognition Program that rewards employees that choose to build a long and successful career with us. As part of this programme, we love celebrating and sharing the stories of those reaching major milestones with the company.

This month we caught up with Fintua's Chief Financial Officer Edward Furlong who has been a part of the team for the last 15 years.

What is your favourite thing about working in CluneTech / Fintua?

The people. In Fintua, we have a core of really good people that have been here a long time.

What has been your biggest achievement or highlight since joining CluneTech / Fintua?

My appointment as Chief Financial Officer.

Who or what has inspired you the most during your time here?

The dedication of our staff, in particular the Bulgarian based employees. The level of effort and automation they have brought into work practices over the past number of years has been remarkable.

What is the biggest change that you have witnessed in your time here?

The automation across lots of processes during my time here at Fintua.

I have also witnessed the growth in many of our businesses from the foundations of being mainly an income tax refunds business  which was very manual to being a key player in the Fintech space.

What is the greatest challenge that you have faced in your time here and how did you overcome it?

Covid completely changed the focus of our business. The majority of what we did prior to that was based around travel. This presented huge challenges from a budgeting and cashflow perspective.

In the same period Comply was also being developed.

What has been your favourite project to work on?

The rebrand project led by the marketing team was interesting to be involved in.

There are lots of elements of automation that we are working through at the moment so hard to choose a favourite.

If you had to swap roles with someone in the company for a week, who would it be and why?

Anywhere within the Sales function. I get lots of Sales phone calls so would be nice to be on the other side of the fence, for just a week!

Do you have advice for someone who is just starting their career in CluneTech / Fintua?

Don’t be afraid of change and embrace new ways of doing things.

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On February 17th, CluneTech, a fintech group with over 1,200 employees worldwide, received the "Employer Supporting Parents with Children" award by the Bulgarian Parents' Academy.

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The Academy is one of the country’s largest communities, uniting specialists and organizations that support families. The inaugural edition of the awards seeks to highlight best practices in creating work environments that support parents with children.

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With over 300 parents among its employees in Bulgaria alone, CluneTech was recognized in two categories: "Employers Offering the Most Flexibility" and "Employers with Innovative Ideas for Future Parenting Policies."

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What sets CluneTech apart from other employers in the country is its high level of flexibility. In Bulgaria, 40% of employees work fully remotely, 45% follow a hybrid model, and only 15% work exclusively from the office.

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Some of the benefits CluneTech offers its employees to support work-life balance and childcare include extra annual leave days, flex hours, which allow employees to complete their weekly hours over 4.5 days, and Lifework Days —a half-day each quarter employees can use to take care of personal matters.

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“Besides the long list of traditional employee benefits such as additional health insurance, sports cards, and food vouchers, we are deeply committed to providing social and emotional support for our employees. Naturally, this support extends to parents as well. In addition to the fun celebrations and initiatives we organize for the children and families of our employees, we also support our colleagues during life's difficult moments. This includes miscarriage leave, extended leave for the loss of a loved one, and an Employee Assistance Program, providing free 24-hour psychological support for employees and their family members," shared Ekaterina Hristova, HR Manager at CluneTech in Bulgaria.

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This is CluneTech’s second accolade in Bulgaria in 2025, after climbing to number 14 in the prestigious Top 100 Best Employers Ranking by Career Show Index.

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CluneTech is proud to announce its 14th-place ranking in the "Top 100 Best Employers in Bulgaria" for 2025, as recognized by the annual Career Show Index in Bulgaria.

This achievement marks a significant advancement from our 46th position in 2023, reflecting our dedication to continuous improvement. Our success is attributed to several accolades received over the past few years, including Best Employer in Fintech, Work-Life Balance Strategy, and Employee Benefits Strategy.

The Career Show Index honours employers who demonstrate consistent efforts in providing excellent working conditions and enhancing the workplace atmosphere. CluneTech's recognition highlights our successful adaptation to the evolving expectations of the employees.

"We congratulate CluneTech on their success in the 2025 Top 100 Best Employers in Bulgaria ranking! It is an honour for us to highlight employers who have demonstrated successful practices and strategies for employee development and care. We are pleased that through the Bulgarian awards for best employer, we can present innovative, creative, and effective employee care and working conditions improvement projects that would otherwise be unseen by the public. Participation in awards and making it to prestigious rankings is an excellent opportunity to give voice to good examples in the work of a company," shared the organisers.

The "Top 100 Best Employers in Bulgaria" ranking is part of Career Show's annual initiative, which includes the largest career expo in the country and the Career Show Awards, the leading awards for best employer and employer brand. The ranking is based on the awards CluneTech received in this esteemed competition.

The full list of the top 100 employers can be found on the Career Show website.

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Monday, 19th February 2024. Kilkenny-headquartered software technology group, CluneTech, has been recognised at the 2024 b2b Media Employer Branding Awards at a Gala Awards ceremony held in the Astoria Garden Hotel, Sofia last Friday.

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Now in its seventh year, the b2b Media Employer Branding Awards celebrate the achievements of the HR and Communications departments of companies that are focusing on creating a positive employee experience and driving talent development. The awards are vital for promoting best practice in HR and employer branding, as they enable Bulgaria’s leading employers to showcase the unique and innovative ways in which they are creating industry leading cultures for their people.

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This is CluneTech’s sixth year participating in these awards. At a captivating ceremony in Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, Kristina Ilieva and Niya Boncheva from CluneTech’s Marketing & Communications Team accepted two awards on behalf of the company.

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CluneTech were thrilled to be recognised in two categories:

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Our Management of New Employees award goes for the company’s enhanced onboarding process, which features a Workvivo New Hires Space, a series of step-by-step guidance emails for candidates and new starters, and the implementation of a brand-new e-signature solution for all employee-related documents which has reduced the paper usage by 30,000 sheets annually in Bulgaria alone.

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CluneTech were also awarded in the category Employer Branding Idea for their CSR Spotlight Charity of the Month initiative which resulted in a significant amount of donations for a wide range of charitable causes in the past year. CluneTech’s Spotlight Charity of the month is fully driven by their employees across the globe, who actively participated by sharing photos of their physical activities on their internal communications platform, Workvivo, over the past year.  For every employee who participated in the initiative, CluneTech donated between €5 and €50 to selected charities and causes each month. The initiative is part of the company’s global CSR Programme, CluneTech Cares, which sees the company support the charities and causes their employees hold dearest to their hearts.

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Following the recognition, Ekaterina Hristova, HR Manager for CluneTech in Bulgaria, said:

“We are truly over the moon to have won the Management of New Employees Award and we are proud that the progress we made in improving our onboarding process in the last year has not gone unnoticed. This recognition is a huge team effort by both our HR and Communications teams, and represents our commitment to creating a top-notch experience throughout the whole employee journey with CluneTech.”

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Kristina Ilieva, Marketing and Communications Specialist at CluneTech’s Team added:

“Our people are the driving force behind all the amazing changes in our workplace. It is their feedback and participation that continues to shape our CSR and Great Place to Work programmes, and our overall #OneTeam culture. There is no doubt that each one of us plays a fundamental role in making CluneTech a great place to work and recognitions like this prove we are on the right track.”

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Learn more about CluneTech’s career opportunities and our amazing #OneTeam culture here.

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6th October 2023, Bulgaria. This September, Kilkenny-based software technology group and Bulgaria’s largest Irish employer – CluneTech, was awarded “Fintech Employer of the Year” at the Career Show Awards – a leading career event that recognizes innovation in employee management and employer branding.

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The award ceremony took place in Arena Sofia on the 5th of October, as part of Bulgaria’s biggest career expo, where our HR Manager, Ekaterina Hristova, and our Marketing and Communications Specialist Kristina Ilieva, got on the stage to accept the accolade on behalf of CluneTech.

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In addition, CluneTech also received a Gold Medal in the Work-Life Balance Category in recognition of our re-imagined employee experience, greater workplace flexibility and the various types of leave we provide, and a Bronze Medal in the Employee Recognition Strategy Category for our revamped Milestone Recognition Program, our #OneTeam Awards and a host of other initiatives that aim to create a culture of recognition and employee satisfaction.

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Founder Simona Harizanova shared:

“We would like to congratulate CluneTech for its achievement at the Career Show Awards to date. This is an incredibly valuable recognition that celebrates the great professionalism, hard work, and dedication of the best employers in the country. We are delighted to observe how employers and workforce management in Bulgaria develop

throughout the years and we can all see that the achievements, following the employers’ improved processes and initiatives, are astonishing.”

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Ekaterina Hristova, HR Manager in Bulgaria added:

“This year marks CluneTech's best achievement in the Career Show Awards to date. This is something we’re incredibly proud of, especially given that the competition has gotten tougher year on year! The recognition is a reflection not only of our improved benefits package and approach to flexibility, but also of our commitment to creating a working environment where people feel valued for their individual skills and contributions, and where they are supported to reach their full potential.”

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About Career Show Awards

Career Show Awards were established to celebrate the achievements of Bulgaria’s leading employers, recognizing those who have demonstrated exceptional innovation in employee management and employer branding in this constantly evolving and highly competitive sector. This year, over 100 local and international companies were evaluated by professionals from different fields, such as Manyu Moravenov Ph. D MRICS, CEO of the Bulgarian Stock Exchange, Former President of Bulgaria – Rossen Plevneliev, well-known psychologist Ani Vladimirova, and many more.

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About CluneTech

The Career Show accolade directly coincides with CluneTech’s twenty-second anniversary on the map of Bulgaria’s leading employers and is a culmination of more than two decades of continuous growth and innovation, turning CluneTech into one of the well-known employers on the local scene. In Bulgaria alone, CluneTech employs nearly 900 finance, tech, marketing, and customer service specialists, who support our global businesses.

Established in 1996 by entrepreneur Terry Clune, CluneTech is a suite of software technology companies, comprising of tech unicorn TransferMate, Taxback, Taxback International, Sprintax, Visa First and Benamic. Immedis, a leading global payroll platform, which was recently acquired by UKG in one of Ireland’s largest technology deals.

CluneTech is currently hiring across all functions, particularly Finance, Development, Compliance, Marketing and Operations.

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Welcome to our CluneTech Social Spotlight Series – a roundup of the best social media activity from across our group of global companies. Want to stay in the loop with everything happening in CluneTech? Here’s the place to do it! Click the title of each entry to view the original post.

Don’t forget to like and share the wonderful content being produced across the group!

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Marian Ryan breaks down Budget 2024 on Virgin Media’s Ireland AM - Taxback

Did you miss Taxback’s Director of Business Development, Marian Ryan on Virgin Media’s Ireland AM this October?

Well fear not, as you can catch the full interview right here in this edition of CluneTech’s Social Spotlight. Marian spoke about all things budget 2024, explaining how young families, single individuals and pensioners may be affected.

Still trying to get your head around this year's budget and wondering how it has affected your take home pay? 

Try Taxback's free Budget 2024 Calculator here today.

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TransferMate named ‘FinTech Company of the Year’ at the National FinTech Awards 2023 - TransferMate

Last September, TransferMate were delighted to announce their success at the National Fintech Awards, winning the FinTech Company of the Year award. 

The inaugural National Fintech Awards were established to celebrate the exceptional achievements of the entire Irish Fintech industry, recognising those who have demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, and growth in this dynamic and constantly evolving sector. 

Continuous growth and innovation over more than a decade culminated in TransferMate’s unicorn status in May 2022, following a further $70m investment. TransferMate’s $1bn valuation has put the company among an elite list of only seven Irish unicorns. In 2022, over €18 billion flowed through TransferMate’s products and solutions, up from €7.2billion in 2021, showing 86% year on year growth.  

That growth can be seen across the company’s areas of focus, from direct business to strategic partnerships. TransferMate’s award-winning Global Accounts solution allows businesses to hold, pay and receive multiple currencies on a single platform, allowing them to trade globally as if they had a local banking presence - In essence, enabling businesses to build and control their own international banking network.

TransferMate’s API integrations, as well as open finance solutions like TransferMate for Banks & FIs, allow partners to ‘upgrade their payment engine’ and offer their end-users the same benefits as TransferMate’s direct clients and are integrated into banks, FIs, fintech’s, ERPs, BSMs, Procurement, Accounting and E-Commerce platforms across the world. The business’ global impact is reflected in the strategic partnerships it has agreed with companies such as SAP Concur, Coupa Pay, Sage, Quickbooks, AccountsIQ, Wells Fargo, and Barclays. 

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Commenting on the award, TransferMate CEO, Sinead Fitzmaurice, said:   

“We are very proud to be a homegrown company that has become a leading player on the global stage. We continue to expand our suite of solutions for both direct businesses and partners, allowing them to grow alongside us. This success is all down to the work and dedication our people have shown since we were founded, and this award belongs to them.” 

TransferMate’s founder and chairman, Terry Clune, added:

“We are delighted to be the inaugural recipients of the Fintech Company of the Year award. With incredible progress and innovation happening across the industry it’s fantastic to see indigenous businesses, products and services being recognised in Ireland through this awards programme.”

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A massive well done to the whole TransferMate team involved for this outstanding achievement.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Visa First - Visa First

During the month of October, we were absolutely thrilled to mark a milestone that has been two decades in the making – CluneTech subsidiary, Visa First is officially 20 years old! 

The team were busy celebrating the incredible achievement at Dublin HQ with a special toast from their CEO Joanna Murphy, along with Founder and Chairman Terry Clune.

A special thanks to the Visa First team for being an essential part of the company's 20-year journey and for all of their continued hardwork and dedication.

Cheers to Visa First at 20!

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CluneTech awarded Overall Excellence in HR at the 2023 HR Leadership & Management Awards - CluneTech

This month, we were over the moon to learn that CluneTech had been recognised at the 2023 HR Leadership & Management Awards at a Gala Awards ceremony held in the Crowne Plaza, Dublin.

Now in its ninth year, the HR Leadership & Management Awards celebrate excellence in HR and recognise that it will be key to the future economic prosperity of the Irish economy. The Awards are vital to promote HR, as they allow innovation and achievement to shine, and the ceremony itself is attended by hundreds of leading industry figures.

This is CluneTech’s fourth year participating in these awards, having originally been recognised in 2019. CluneTech was awarded Overall Excellence in HR, which recognises exceptional achievement in HR and is the highest accolade of the night.

CluneTech’s success at the awards also marks the company’s third time winning Best Use of CSR in HR. This award recognises the role that our CSR programme, CluneTech Cares, plays in the company’s overall business strategy and #OneTeam culture.

CluneTech were also awarded Best Flexible Working Strategy, an award that recognises their innovative approach to flexibility. In the last year, CluneTech further strengthened its commitment to work-life balance by increasing annual leave allowance and introducing flexible benefits including Life Work Days, an additional half day's leave per quarter where employees can get their life jobs done, Summer Flex Hours, Meeting Free Days and more. 

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Welcoming the awards, Terry Clune, CluneTech CEO and founder said: 

“We are absolutely delighted to have won three awards at the HR Leadership and Management Awards. On behalf of myself and CluneTech’s leadership team, we’d like to express our gratitude to our HR Team who go above and beyond, consistently listening to our people in order to deliver the best possible employee experience. This recognition is testament to the incredible work that they do which wouldn’t be possible without the support and collaboration from our employees, all of whom play a fundamental role in making CluneTech a great place to work.”

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Rachael Quinlan, Head of Employee Experience, CluneTech said:

 “We are truly over the moon with our recognition at this year’s awards and are especially proud to have won Overall Excellence in HR. This recognition is a huge team effort and represents years of hard work to get us to where we are today. At CluneTech, our people are the driving force behind our #OneTeam culture and it’s their feedback and participation that has directly shaped both our Flexible Working Strategy and CSR Programme. We are incredibly grateful to them, and to our leadership team, both of whom consistently collaborate with us so that we can deliver a best-in-class EX, while simultaneously fuelling growth and innovation right across our suite of global businesses.”

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We couldn't be prouder and want to thank each and every one of our employees involved in this amazing achievement. 

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Benamic Recognised at the IPM Awards 2023 - Benamic

Benamic were delighted to be recognised in the "Best Promotional Marketing Management" category at The Institute of Promotional Marketing (IPM) Awards 2023 this October, taking home a bronze award.

The CluneTech Subsidiary were incredibly proud to be recognised among other industry leaders following the announcement on the night.

 A massive well done to all the Benamic team for this amazing achievement. We cant wait to see what's next on their journey.

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And that’s a wrap for this week’s Social Spotlight roundup. Head over to www.clunetech.com to learn more about CluneTech and our amazing group of global companies. Check back in soon for the next CluneTech Social Spotlight!

At CluneTech, we have an extensive Milestone Recognition Program that rewards employees that choose to build along and successful career with us. As part of this program, we love celebrating and sharing the stories of those reaching major milestones with the company.

This month we caught up with Taxback's Nikolay Pavlov, Operations Team Leader, who has been on our team for the last 20 years.

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What is your favourite thing about working in CluneTech / Taxback?

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After so many years here, there are lots of things I love about working at Taxback. If I would have to pick one, it would be the people I work and have worked with over the years.

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What has been your biggest achievement or highlight since joining CluneTech/ Taxback?

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I would say observing how the company changed and developed over the years and how I have developed with it. From the morning shifts with 'US Others B team',  to my current position as Operations Team Leader.

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What is the biggest change that you have witnessed in your time here?

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20 years is quite a long time. The company has changed in almost every way during this period. From the countless paper files and walls filled with cabinets and folders – to desks being completely file free now – The technology changed and the company followed.

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What is the greatest challenge that you have faced in your time here and how did you overcome it?

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During the years we had plenty of challenges. I am glad to say that I think we’ve overcome every obstacle. From different legislative changes, to taking part in plenty of audits from different tax countries we deal with.

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What has been your favourite task or project to work on?

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I did plenty of different projects and tasks over the years. My favorite one would be the daily tasks. Working with the people I manage – everyday is a new beginning and we have to do our best. If you don’t do your best everyday – it's better to not do anything at all.

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Do you have advice for someone who is just starting their career in CluneTech / Taxback?

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Learn from each opportunity you have.  And of course -  when you have a job to do you’ve got to do it well.

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Alexandra Hristova works at CluneTech company TransferMate, a global B2B payments technology firm that enables companies to send and receive cross-border payments faster and easier than ever before.

Alexandra is a young mother from Macedonia who works in our office in Varna, Bulgaria. She successfully juggles both her work and personal life. What she appreciates most about her experience with TransferMate is that, despite being a foreigner in the country, she was given the chance to start in the Quality Control Specialist position without prior similar experience. She feels that she has finally found her place here, as she is surrounded by a great team and employer that encourages her flexibility and maintains a healthy work-life balance, allowing her to spend enough time with her family.

To learn more about Alexandra's journey within CluneTech, her favorite company benefit and her advice to candidates, check out our career blitz video:

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If you are looking to develop your skills, contribute to others, and make an impact, we would love to have you on our team. See our career opportunities at clunetech.com/careers.

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At CluneTech, we have an extensive Milestone Recognition Program that rewards employees that choose to build along and successful career with us. As part of this programme, we love celebrating and sharing the stories of those reaching major milestones with the company.

This month we caught up with Taxback's Antonia Nankova, Operations Team Leader, who has been on our team for the last 15 years.

What is your favourite thing about working in CluneTech / Taxback?

I like the dynamics in our work - different clients, a variety of cases, the challenging busy season every year and then a calmer summer. Sometimes it seems that we are doing similar tasks, but no day is the same.

My favorite thing is my colleagues and the team we’ve formed - they are a group of good people with good hearts. Each one with their own personality, along with being positive, funny, intelligent and dedicated to their work. I truly respect all of them.

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What has been your biggest achievement or highlight since joining CluneTech/ Taxback?

My biggest achievement has been becoming a Team leader. I started working for CluneTech as a student with measured expectations. But no one knows what the future holds. I feel grateful for this opportunity, besides the knowledge I’ve gained, I’ve learnt a lot from my colleagues. Everyday brings something new. The best is yet to come.

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What is the biggest change that you have witnessed in your time here?

The biggest change I’ve witnessed was definitely the remote working during Covid 19 - something that we could hardly imagine before that. I remember wondering what we were going to do and how we things would turn out. But we proved that there is nothing we could not overcome.

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What is the greatest challenge that you have faced in your time here and how did you overcome it?

The greatest challenge from a work perspective is the months at the beginning of each year when we are in peak season - volumes are huge and we are extremely busy. But, that being said, I’m very lucky to work with great people, all hardworking, flexible and dedicated and motivated to get the work done. With this team, I know we are going to make it and succeed.

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What has been your favourite task or project to work on?

I don’t have a favourite task in particular, I like my work and I always give my best to get the job done, no matter what challenges come my way from time to time.

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Do you have advice for someone who is just starting their career in CluneTech / Taxback?

Be hardworking, be diligent, be honest and loyal. Stay focused and keep moving forward, your work will be rewarded. You never know what opportunity could be around the corner.

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Plamenna Zlatanova works at CluneTech's global leader in VAT compliance, reclaim and consultancy, Taxback International.

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Plamenna began her journey with CluneTech in October 2002. Over the years, she has held various roles within Taxback and Taxback International, including pivotal roles such as Global Solutions Manager, EU Sales TL and ISO Quality Auditor. After eighteen years in the group, Plamenna left the company to pursue a different path, but it didn’t take long until she realized she wanted to go back to Quality – this time as Quality Analyst, which she says is to an extent similar to her previous role. As soon as Plamenna got her certifications for Quality Assurance, she rejoined our team as a Quality Analyst at Taxback International.

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In her current role, Plamenna focuses on designing test cases, tracking issues, and collaborating with different tech teams to ensure all projects at Taxback International progress smoothly, delivering the best possible service to our clients.

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To delve deeper into Plamenna's career journey within the group, learn about her typical workday, and discover her favorite employee benefits, check out our career blitz video. If you are looking to develop your skills, contribute to others, and make an impact, we would love to have you on our team. See our career opportunities at clunetech.com/careers.

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Kristiyan Popov works at CluneTech’s company TransferMate - a global B2B payments technology firm that enables companies to send and receive cross-border payments faster and easier than ever before.

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Kristiyan started his career journey in the VAT Auditing team of another company in the group, Taxback International. He soon came to realize his passion for tech and after a short break and a few qualification courses, he rejoined our team as a Business Analyst at TransferMate Education.

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In his new role, Kristiyan is responsible for gathering and analyzing business requirements, driving process improvements, and leading cross-functional teams to deliver successful IT projects.

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To learn more about Kristiyan's career journey within the group, his typical workday, as well as his advice to candidates, check out our career blitz video.

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If you are looking to develop your skills, contribute to others, and make an impact, we would love to have you on our team. See our career opportunities at clunetech.com/careers.

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Stanko Kolev works as a Product Owner at CluneTech’s global B2B payments technology leader, and one of Ireland’s most recent fintech unicorns, TransferMate.

Stanko joined our team two and a half years ago, deep-diving into the full development cycle of Global Accounts – one of TransferMate’s most successful products, where he works closely with developers, quality assurance specialists, various operations departments, as well as the stakeholders and the customers of the company.

To learn more about Stanko's career journey within the group, his typical workday, as well as his advice on how to become a Product Owner, check out our career blitz video.

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If you are looking to develop your skills, contribute to others, and make an impact, we would love to have you on our team. See our career opportunities at clunetech.com/careers

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Friday, February 6th 2026. CluneTech was proud to celebrate the achievements of Kilkenny’s emerging young talent as it hosted the Kilkenny GAA and Camogie Academy Awards at its Kilkenny HQ on January 27th and 28^th. Held over two evenings, the awards recognised the dedication and commitment of theU16 Kilkenny GAA hurling and football squads, alongside the U15 Kilkenny Camogie Academy and Development squads.
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Over both evenings, a small number of players from hurling, football and camogie were also selected for the Driver of Excellence Awards, recognising individuals who demonstrated outstanding commitment, leadership and determination throughout the season, both on and off the pitch. Players were joined by their families, coaches and mentors to mark an important milestone in their development journey.
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Special guest speakers across the two nights included CluneTech’s Derek Lyng for hurling, Christy Walsh for football and Aoife Prendergast for camogie. Each shared valuable insights and encouragement with the young athletes as they continue their progression within the academy pathways.

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CluneTech has been the main sponsor of both the Kilkenny GAA Academy (Na Cait Óga) and the Kilkenny Camogie Academy since 2024, under a three-year partnership supporting more than 500 players across both pathways. The sponsorship helps fund essential operational and player-welfare costs, including transport, equipment, nutrition and medical supports, ensuring a high-performance environment can be sustained for young athletes across the county.
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Terry Clune, Founder and CEO of CluneTech, said:

“We were delighted to host the Kilkenny GAA and Camogie Academy Awards at our Kilkenny HQ and to celebrate the hard work and commitment shown by these young players throughout their academy journey. CluneTech is proud to support both academies and to play a role in developing the next generation of Kilkenny athletes. We would like to thank the coaches, mentors, parents and all involved for the dedication they continue to show year after year.”
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This sponsorship forms part of CluneTech’s award-winning CSR programme, CluneTech Cares. Established in 2007 and created by its people, for its people, the programme supports charities and causes worldwide while having a strong local impact in Kilkenny and in the communities where CluneTech operates.
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Speaking at the event, Sean Kelly, Kilkenny GAA Performance Lead, said:

“The Academy Awards are an important point in the development pathway, giving us an opportunity to recognise the work and commitment shown by our players throughout the year. For our U16 hurlers and footballers, this marks a key stage as they continue to progress within the Kilkenny system, building strong habits around preparation, discipline and performance.

Nights like this reflect the high standards being set across the academy and the collective effort of players, coaches and families in supporting long-term development both on and off the pitch.”
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Tommy Farrell, Kilkenny Camogie Development Officer, added:

“This was a really special evening for Kilkenny Camogie, bringing players, families and coaches together to celebrate the progress made by our U15 academy and development squads. It’s important to take time to acknowledge the enjoyment, confidence and personal growth that comes from being part of the academy journey.

The awards night captured the positive atmosphere around the programme and highlighted the strong sense of community that supports our young players as they continue to develop and enjoy the game.”
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PJ Kenny, Chairman of Kilkenny GAA, said:

“The Academy Awards are an important occasion in the underage calendar, giving young players the opportunity to be recognised for their commitment and effort throughout the year. It is a proud moment for players, families and coaches, and a reminder of the standards being developed within the Kilkenny academy pathway.”
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Theresa Aylward, Kilkenny Camogie Chairperson, added:

“Kilkenny Camogie is delighted with our partnership with CluneTech, as we share many common values, standards and a strong sense of identity. Their support allows us to continue developing and supporting our young camogie players, and occasions like the Academy Awards are an important opportunity to recognise their progress and encourage them as they work to reach their potential within Kilkenny’s high-performance environment.”

The two awards evenings reflected the strength of the partnership between CluneTech, Kilkenny GAA and Kilkenny Camogie, and a shared commitment to providing young players with a supportive and high-quality development environment. As the academy programmes continue to grow, the focus remains on nurturing talent, building character and ensuring that young athletes across the county are given every opportunity to reach their potential both on and off the pitch.
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For more information, please contact:

Lauren Cleere, CluneTech, lauren.cleere@clunetech.com  

Mary Morgan, Kilkenny GAA PRO, pro.kilkenny@gaa.ie

Aoife Lanigan, Kilkenny Camogie PRO, pro.kilkenny@camogie.ie

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Thursday, 29th of January 2026. Today, CluneTech and Cois Nore announced a sponsorship supporting the development of a dedicated therapy wing at Cois Nore’s new Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny, marking a significant milestone and an important investment in the future of cancer support services for the people of Kilkenny

CluneTech’s sponsorship will fund the refurbishment and fit-out of the therapy wing within the new Cois Nore House.

Every day in County Kilkenny, two families receive a cancer diagnosis, beginning a journey that affects not only the individual but also their families, friends, and communities. Since 2013, Cois Nore has been a safe haven for those living with cancer, providing free, professional, community-based support.

As demand has outgrown its Walkin Street premises, work is now underway on a new purpose-built centre on the Waterford Road. The new Cancer Support Centre is expected to open in March 2026 and will meet the growing needs of people affected by cancer across Kilkenny.

CluneTech’s sponsorship provides vital funding for a modern, purpose-designed therapy space that will support individuals and families throughout their cancer journey. Alongside community generosity, government support, and contributions from other supporters, this investment is helping to bring the new centre closer to completion and enables Cois Nore to continue delivering free, confidential support and professional and voluntary services to people of all ages.

The new Cois Nore House will include dedicated therapy rooms, safe spaces for children and teenagers, group support facilities, and activity areas designed to nurture recovery and dignity. It will provide a welcoming environment where individuals and families can access guidance, compassion, and community at a time when they need it most.

Terry Clune, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of CluneTech, said:

“Kilkenny is home for many of us at CluneTech, and we recognise the importance of standing with our community during difficult times. Cancer touches so many families, and Cois Nore has been a steadfast and compassionate support to the people of Kilkenny for over a decade. We are proud to support the development of the new Cois Nore therapy wing and the vital work that will continue there. We are in it together with Cois Nore and with the people of Kilkenny.”

Bill Cuddihy, Chairperson of Cois Nore, said:

“Cois Nore is very grateful for the support we have received from all sections of the community in Kilkenny. CluneTech’s sponsorship is a powerful statement of solidarity and shows a deep investment in the wellbeing of the community. Together, we are building a centre that protects dignity, nurtures recovery, and empowers hope.”

Mary Dolan, Manager of Cois Nore, said:

“The people of Kilkenny deserve a Cancer Support Centre with the space and resources to deliver a high-quality service. This partnership with CluneTech helps us take an important step towards that vision. Cois Nore has become like a second family for so many, and this new centre will allow us to welcome more people into a space that truly meets their needs.”

This sponsorship forms part of CluneTech Cares, CluneTech’s award-winning corporate social responsibility programme. Founded in 2007, the programme supports charities and causes worldwide and is driven by employee involvement. With a strong local impact in Kilkenny and the communities where CluneTech operates, this sponsorship brings the new centre and expanded cancer support services one step closer to reality.
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About Cois Nore

Founded in 2013, Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre provides free, professional, community-based services to patients, families, and carers in Kilkenny. Affiliated with the National Cancer Control Programme, Cois Nore offers counselling, touch therapies, children’s services, support groups, and wellness activities — all delivered locally with empathy and understanding.

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About CluneTech

CluneTech isa suite of software technology companies providing solutions that simplifyglobal business. Established in 1996, CluneTech is headquartered in Ireland,with more than 1,200 employees globally and operations in over 100 countries.CluneTech has been recognised as one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces for tenconsecutive years by Great Place to Work.

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For more information:

CluneTech
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Lauren Cleere, Marketing and Communications Manager
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lauren.cleere@clunetech.com

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Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre

Email: info@coisnore.ie

Phone: 056 775 2222
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‍Website:www.coisnore.ie

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Thursday, 5 June 2025 – Varna, Bulgaria

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CluneTech is proud to announce the continued success and growth of the award-winning educational initiative FAST Heroes 112, which has now expanded city-wide in Varna, Bulgaria. Endorsed by the World Stroke Organization and supported by CluneTech since 2022, the program currently reaches 26 kindergartens and more than 2,100 children, delivering life-saving health education to families across the region.

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What began as a pilot in just one school has grown into a vital community initiative, turning health education into a celebration and raising essential stroke awareness among nearly 13,000 people in the Varna municipality.

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In partnership with the Varna Municipality and the Heart to Heart Foundation Bulgaria, we remain committed to expanding the program’s impact even further.

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About FAST Heroes 112

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FAST Heroes 112 is an award-winning educational program, endorsed by the World Stroke Organization. It aims to raise awareness of stroke symptoms and emphasizes the importance of immediate action when these signs appear. The program harnesses children’s natural enthusiasm for learning and sharing to spread life-saving knowledge not only in kindergartens and primary schools but also within families at home.

Children aged 6 to 11 learn how to identify stroke symptoms through engaging, adventure-based lessons, and then share that knowledge with their families. On average, each child passes this information on to six adults, amplifying the program’s impact beyond the classroom walls.

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Why stroke prevention matters

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Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in Bulgaria and worldwide, and tragically, one of the main reasons children lose their grandparents. Many stroke patients miss out on life-saving treatment because they don’t recognize symptoms early enough and arrive at the hospital too late. However, if stroke victims receive swift and effective acute care, survival rates improve dramatically.

This is why increasing awareness of stroke symptoms and empowering people to seek emergency care immediately is crucial. FAST Heroes 112 contributes to building this awareness, helping families respond quickly when it matters most.

Varna, home to our largest Bulgarian office, is also one of the cities with the highest stroke rates in the country — making this partnership especially meaningful.

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Looking ahead to expand our reach

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This fall, FAST Heroes 112 will continue its vital work by reaching children and families in all primary and elementary schools across Varna. Stay tuned for updates on our ongoing journey to make Varna safer — one child, one family, and one community at a time.

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Our CSR Programme - CluneTech Cares, is a fantastic representation of what we are - a team of truly caring individuals giving our best to support and add value, not only to our customers, but also to the communities in which we operate. CluneTech Cares is employee-led and has three key pillars: Wellness, Culture & Community, and Sustainability. It has been a busy quarter so make sure to check out some of our latest activities below.

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October’s CSR Spotlight: Breast Cancer Awareness

For the month of October, we are traditionally raising funds for Race for the Cure which plays a crucial role in supporting breast cancer organizations and hospitals across Europe.

With a staggering 500,000 new diagnoses and 125,000 lives lost to breast cancer in Europe every year, the funds raised through events like this are of vital importance. They enable these organizations to continue their life-saving work, providing support, research, and awareness to combat this disease.

This October, more than 150 CluneTech colleagues took part in our fundraising events for breast cancer awareness and Race for the Cure across the globe. These events included group walks in Bulgaria and Ireland and a Breast Cancer Awareness talk at our Kilkenny HQ.

In addition, Presiyana Vitanova, Desislava Georgieva, Desislava Chervenkova and Ralitsa Hristova used their Volunteer Day to distribute flyers at the St. Marina Medical Center in Varna, Bulgaria, raising awareness about the importance of breast cancer screenings.

Thanks to our team's efforts, we donated €1,590 to this incredible cause.

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November’s CSR Spotlight: Movember

This November, we focused our CSR Spotlight on men’s health and the globally recognized Movember movement.

Since its inception in 2003, Movember has grown into a global movement, bringing together passionate Mo Bros and Mo Sisters – individuals dedicated to making a difference in mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. So far, the campaign has raised USD 1.4 billion, funding life-saving research and initiatives for men’s health.

Throughout November, CluneTech employees embraced the cause by growing their own moustaches and staying active for men’s mental health. For each moustache photo posted with the hashtag #Movember, CluneTech Cares generously donated €20. We also stuck to our monthly 5k challenge by donating €5 for every employee who posted a picture of their 5k into our internal communications platform.

At the close of Movember, CluneTech made a significant monetary contribution to Movember, supporting various men's health charities and organizations. A big thank you to all of our amazing colleagues for their dedication and participation.

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2024 Kilkenny GAA and Camogie Academy Awards, proudly supported by CluneTech

This quarter, CluneTech had the privilege of hosting the 2024 Kilkenny GAA and Camogie Academy Awards at our Kilkenny HQ. Over two unforgettable evenings, we celebrated the outstanding achievements of the U16 Kilkenny GAA Football and Hurling Teams, as well as the U15 Kilkenny Camogie Academy and Development Squads.

The event brought together players, families, coaches, and mentors, highlighting the dedication and passion that drive Kilkenny’s young athletes. We were honored to welcome special guest speakers Henry Shefflin, Miriam Walsh, and Richie Donnelly, who inspired attendees with their words of wisdom and shared their own journeys in sport.

CluneTech is proud to support Kilkenny GAA and Kilkenny Camogie, empowering the next generation of athletes and fostering a sense of teamwork and community. These awards nights were a true reflection of the hard work and commitment of everyone involved, and we’re delighted to have played a role in celebrating their success.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the coaches, mentors, and leaders, including Michael Fennelly, Performance Lead at Kilkenny GAA, and Tommy Farrell, Kilkenny Camogie Development Officer, for their vital contributions.

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December’s CSR Spotlight: Preventing Homelessness & Poverty

This December, our CSR Spotlight of the month shines on St. Vincent de Paul, a remarkable organization providing vital support to those experiencing poverty and homelessness—especially during the holidays.

SVP provides vital services such as housing assistance, food support, and education resources, making a meaningful difference in communities across Ireland—especially during the holiday season.

To help make a difference, we’re hosting a Christmas Jumper Day at our Kilkenny HQ on Wednesday, December 18th. For every festive jumper worn to the office, CluneTech will donate €5 to St. Vincent de Paul.

The jumper doesn’t need to be flashy—what truly matters is the kindness and generosity behind this initiative. Together, let’s help bring a little more joy and warmth to those in need this holiday season.

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Christmas Gifts for 176 children from the Center for Special Educational Support in Varna

This December, in response to a request from a teacher, CluneTech made a generous financial donation to the Center for Special Educational Support in Varna. The donation will be used to purchase Christmas gifts for nearly 200 students who rely on the center’s services to navigate their educational journey, as they were born with special needs.

Since its transformation in August 2017, the former Special Education School "Brothers Miladinovi" in Varna has become a Center for Special Educational Support, meeting modern standards for educating children with developmental disabilities. The center currently employs over 30 teachers and 10 therapists, who provide education and care to 176 children aged 6 to 18.

The center is equipped with nine classrooms and a dedicated ergonomic therapy space. The classrooms are designed to cater to the sensory integration needs of the children, with environments tailored to each age group. In preschool and primary school classrooms, a multisensory approach alternates between learning and physical activities, all designed to engage students through practical experience. For non-verbal children on the autism spectrum and those with limited mobility due to cerebral palsy, the center uses advanced tools like the Communicator5 eye-control device for communication and Tobii games for eye training and fun.

In addition to education, the center provides consulting, diagnostic, corrective-educational, and therapeutic services aimed at addressing and compensating for the students’ individual needs.

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Giving Back to Our Communities: From New York and Beyond

At CluneTech, our commitment to giving back is at the heart of everything we do. At the end of 2024, our US teams were honored to make annual donations to three exceptional organizations that tirelessly serve our communities: One to World, Coalition for the Homeless, and the Aisling Irish Community and Cultural Center.

One to World

One to World enriches the global community by fostering intercultural understanding and cooperation. Through education programs and cultural exchange initiatives, they connect international students and scholars with local communities, building bridges of understanding and collaboration. We are proud to support their mission to make the world a more inclusive and connected place.

One To World provides face-to-face experiences among local communities, international students, and Fulbright scholars. Our programs foster curiosity, respect, inclusion, and community for a better world. None of this work would be possible without donors like you. We couldn’t be more grateful for your generosity and your commitment to our mission.

Deepesh Dhingra, Executive Director of One to World.

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Coalition for the Homeless

The Coalition for the Homeless has been a beacon of hope for those experiencing homelessness in New York City. Offering food, shelter, and support services, they work tirelessly to help individuals and families regain stability and rebuild their lives. We are deeply inspired by their dedication and honored to contribute to their life-changing efforts.

Because of your invaluable support, the Coalition has been able to expand our services and advocacy to meet the growing need. We are committed to seeing no one go hungry, homeless, or without shelter in our city. I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and compassion – you are truly making a difference.

Dave Giffen, Executive Director of Coalition for the Homeless.

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The Aisling Irish Community and Cultural Center

Located in New York, the Aisling Irish Community and Cultural Centre is a lifeline for Irish immigrants and the broader community, offering mental health support, senior care, and cultural programs. Our donation to the Aisling Irish Community Centre will specifically support their mental health programs, which provide critical resources and support to those in need. Their commitment to fostering connection and well-being for all who walk through their doors is truly inspiring, and we are grateful to support their vital mission.

We provide support, programs and services to approximately 15,000 people during the year. We promote wellness, infuse culture, and offer empathy with every interaction as our mission is to care for the “whole person”. With 352 private social service sessions delivered so far this year we have worked with youth, families, and seniors to provide a range of supports, meeting their individual needs. We support the Irish because we have made a commitment to our funders to do so.  We do everything else, because we are Irish. Thank you for putting a spotlight on the need for food security, and the growing need for mental health support – and for helping us to do our part in providing that support. 

Sandra Feeney-Charles, Executive Director of the Aisling Irish Community and Cultural Center.

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We extend our sincerest thanks to these organizations for their tireless work to uplift and support those in need. Your efforts make a profound difference in the lives of so many, and we are proud to stand with you. Together, we can continue to build stronger, more inclusive communities and create a brighter future for all.

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The Taxback International Team Takes on the '12 Dips of December' Challenge

Our Taxback International team showed true courage by diving into the cold River Barrow—not once, but 12 times each — as part of the '12 Dips in December' challenge.

A huge thank you to our daring participants: Cora Phelan, Therese Hegarty, Éanna Brady, Nigel O'Donovan, Nicola Delaney, Joe Forristal, Eoin Dunphy, Brian Cooney, and Clare Farrell. All of which took the plunge to support three incredible causes, the Irish Heart Foundation, Pieta and Breast Cancer Ireland

We are so grateful for the generous donations and words of encouragement from everyone who supported our team. Your contributions will go a long way in helping these essential organizations continue their lifechanging work.

We’re beyond proud of our team for their dedication. By the end of their 12 Dips of December Challenge, our team raised over 3,000 euros in total. A massive well done to all involved.

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Volunteering at CluneTech

Introduced in 2021, our CSR Volunteer Day empowers each employee to give back to the charities and causes closest to them. Since the inception of Volunteer Day, 210+ CluneTech employees have contributed to causes which they find meaningful, and this number keeps growing. See what they had to share with us about their experience this quarter:

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Anita Ilieva and Denis Ibrqmov: A day of giving back in their local dog shelter

This November, Denis Ibrqmov and Anita Ilieva from the TransferMate Treasury Team spent a meaningful day at a local dog shelter in their hometown Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. Here's what they had to share about their experience:

“As animal lovers, this cause is something we truly hold close to our hearts, and we felt incredibly fortunate to be able to give back in a small but impactful way.

Our visit was filled with laughter, love, and a lot of wagging tails! We spent time playing with the adorable puppies, whose energy and joy were absolutely contagious. It was a heartwarming experience, and we couldn’t help but feel a deep connection with these wonderful animals who are waiting for their forever homes.

In addition to spending time with the dogs, we also rolled up our sleeves to help clean the cages, making sure the puppies and older dogs had a clean, safe space to rest. We also donated much-needed food to the shelter, knowing how essential it is to provide them with the best care possible.

This experience reminded us just how important it is to support causes that help those who can’t speak for themselves. It’s not just about giving material things, but also about showing kindness, compassion, and love to creatures who give us so much joy in return.

We encourage everyone to get involved in their communities and support causes that matter. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, every little bit helps."

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Linda Mooney Supporting Young Athletes: A Day at the Primary School Cross Country

As part of our commitment to volunteering, Linda Mooney took a break from her customer service role to spend a day with primary school students participating in a cross-country event. This voluntary day provided her the opportunity to support young athletes and encourage their involvement in competitive running.

“I had the chance to take some time out from dealing with clients in Customer Service to spend the day with students aged 8/9 to 12 years thanks to CluneTech cares and our voluntary day. A lovely fresh Irish morning (ideal running conditions) had me walking 35 students from the school to the back field of beautiful Kilkenny Castle. We arrange them by age to get to the start line as they run them by age/class and whether boys or girls (over 800 participants so it crazy trying to not miss their start time). All the kids had great fun and we had 2nd place for 5th class girls and they got bronze for team event, 6th class boys missed out on bronze for the team but had 5th place individual. After it’s all over and few tired kids, we walk them back to the school. It’s great chance for students that are not part of Athletic club to have a chance to run and get a feel for competitive running and cross country. I had 2 of my own running in the 4th class girls and 6th class boys so was lovely to be their to cheer them on.”

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Our CSR Programme - CluneTech Cares, is a fantastic representation of what we are - a team of truly caring individuals giving our best to support and add value, not only to our customers, but also to the communities in which we operate. CluneTech Cares is employee-led and has three key pillars: Wellness, Culture & Community, and Sustainability. It has been a busy quarter so make sure to check out some of our latest activities below.

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July’s CSR Spotlight: The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation and Karin Dom

Our CSR Spotlight of the Month initiative shines a light on a specific charity or cause for our teams to support. During this time, employees from around the world can join in a remote or in-person 5k walk, run, swim, or cycle.
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This July, we focused our efforts on supporting The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation and Karin Dom, two organizations dedicated to improving children's health and well-being.
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The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation provides vital in-home nursing and end-of-life care for children with severe and life-limiting conditions throughout Ireland. The foundation offers families much-needed respite and support, ensuring that children receive compassionate care in the comfort of their homes.
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Karin Dom is a Bulgarian non-profit organization founded in 1996 by Ivan Stancioff. It serves as a therapeutic center for children with special needs, employing a team of skilled professionals, including physiotherapists, speech therapists, and social workers. Despite their impactful work, Karin Dom faces ongoing challenges due to increasing costs.
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Thanks to our team’s involvement throughout July, CluneTech donated over €350 on behalf of our staff to these dedicated charities, supporting their essential services for children and families in Ireland and Bulgaria.

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August CSR Spotlight: Supporting Animal Welfare

In celebration of International Dog Day, our August CSR Spotlight focused on supporting animal welfare organizations. Donations raised went towards the life-saving efforts of charities and groups working to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need.
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Our primary beneficiary during August was PAWS, an organization dedicated to rescuing abandoned and homeless animals, mainly dogs from high-kill shelters and owners who can no longer care for them. PAWS collaborates with volunteers, local vets, and adoption groups to rescue hundreds of animals each year, provide them with temporary care, and find them loving forever homes.
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A highlight of the month was the Lucky Hunt Project Charity Bazaar, which was organized in support of Lucky Hunt. Founded 13 years ago by Svetlana Hunt, Lucky Hunt operates two facilities: a rehabilitation farm for rescued animals and an open-concept shelter for stray dogs, where the animals are not kept in cages. Over the years, the Lucky Hunt Project has rescued and rehabilitated thousands of homeless animals, providing them with a safe environment and a chance at finding forever homes.
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The charity bazaar was a tremendous success, with contributions making a significant impact on the shelter’s ability to provide vital resources to animals in need. Employees had the opportunity to learn more about Lucky Hunt’s mission, support the cause, and contribute directly to helping these animals.
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Thanks to our team’s active participation, CluneTech made a monetary donation to support animal welfare initiatives, making a meaningful difference for organizations like Lucky Hunt and other beneficiaries. Thank you to everyone who took part and showed their support!
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September’s CSR Spotlight: World Suicide Awareness

In September, CluneTech Cares honored World Suicide Awareness Month by dedicating our CSR Spotlight to Waterford Marine Search and Rescue, an organization committed to preventing suicide and saving lives in the community.

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This year, we organized a 5K CSR Walk at our Kilkenny HQ to bring employees together and raise funds and awareness for the cause. The walk provided a great opportunity for our team to connect, support each other, and contribute to a meaningful initiative. Throughout the month, we also took the opportunity to highlight CluneTech’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), ensuring that employees across the globe are aware of the mental health resources available to them.

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At the end of September, CluneTech made a monetary donation to Waterford Marine Search and Rescue, supporting their essential efforts in mental health and suicide prevention. A big thank you to all of our colleagues for their participation and dedication during this important month!

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‘Let's Clean Bulgaria Together’ Initiative 

In just under an hour, our Bulgarian colleagues proudly collected a total of fifteen bags of trash as part of the ‘Let’s Clean Bulgaria Together’ initiative, which they have now participated in for the second consecutive year.

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We extend our heartfelt thanks to our young volunteers—Maya, Tervel, Boris, Gabi, and Miroslav—who, along with their parents and our dedicated colleagues Emiliya Dimitrova, Vesselin Markov, Miglena Kostova, Elka Krashevska, Aleksandrina Konstantinova, Ina Eneva, and Daniela Roussev, and their friends, spent their Saturday morning cleaning the area around our Bacho Kiro office in Varna, Bulgaria.

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The 12th edition of ‘Let’s Clean Bulgaria Together’ took place on September 14th throughout Bulgaria, in support of World Cleanup Day 2024, which will be observed on September 20th. As Bulgaria’s largest volunteer initiative, it aims to shift attitudes toward pollution, foster a sense of personal responsibility, and contribute to environmental conservation while making a visible difference.

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On September 14th, thousands of volunteers, including students from hundreds of schools and kindergartens as well as NGOs, equipped with bags, gloves, and rubber boots, came together to clean polluted areas and water bodies across the country.

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Since the launch of ‘Let’s Clean Bulgaria Together’, nearly 3,102,000 volunteers have collected approximately 100,000 tons of waste, clearing 28,800 illegal dumpsites and polluted areas. According to the global organization Let’s Do It World, every 10 tons of waste cleaned by volunteers saves €22 million and three years of institutional labour. World Cleanup Day is recognized by the European Parliament and is included in the UN calendar.

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Laptop Donation to St. Aidan’s National School, Kilkenny

As part of CluneTech Cares, we were delighted to donate laptops to St. Aidan's National School in Kilkenny! These laptops will help students and staff integrate ICT into the curriculum, enhancing digital learning while also reducing e-waste by giving older electronics a second life.

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Principal Robbie Byrne shared:

"St. Aidan's NS is delighted to accept the very kind donation of laptops from CluneTech / TransferMate. The laptops will be very useful in our classrooms and support rooms as we integrate ICT across the curriculum. It's also great to see laptops recycled in this way which will benefit many of our students."

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At CluneTech Cares, we’re proud to support our local community while fostering a more sustainable future! Many thanks to James Murphy for driving this initiative forward.

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CluneTech continues its support for the I Want a Baby Foundation

We are honored that for a second year in a row, CluneTech is donating to the I Want a Baby Foundation in Bulgaria, supporting the facilitation of psychological support groups for women and couples with infertility. Over the past year, our initial donation helped nine women experiencing infertility receive much-needed support, and three of them have since become mothers.

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CluneTech Cares: Celebrating the Kilkenny Stars BIDL Women’s Team

CluneTech Cares is proud to sponsor the Kilkenny Stars BIDL Women’s Team, who had an impressive season debut on Saturday evening. The team kicked off their journey in senior basketball with enthusiasm and determination, backed by a lively crowd that brought vibrant energy to the game.

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Despite facing challenges in the first half, the team demonstrated resilience and teamwork, pushing through to secure a decisive victory against their neighbours, the Tipperary Knights. This promising start has set the stage for an exciting season ahead, and we look forward to supporting the Kilkenny Stars as they continue to shine on and off the court!

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Gavroche Association: Empowering Youth Through Legal Education

As part of a CluneTech Cares initiative, young residents from the Gavroche Association’s supervised residence and the Caritas sheltered housing recently visited the Varna District Court. The visit was organized with support from our dedicated colleagues Daniela Tsoneva and Emiliya Dimitrova, who aim to help social service users and employees in the region gain valuable experience and learn best practices in human rights and support for vulnerable individuals.

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During the visit, the group had the opportunity to engage with Deputy Chairperson and Judge Ralitsa Raykova, Veselina Todorova, Coordinator of the Mediation Center, and Stella Yankova, Head of the Court’s Press Center. The court representatives shared insights on civil and criminal cases and offered real-life examples from their experiences working with citizens.

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The youths also explored topics like judicial mediation as an alternative way to resolve disputes, the role of the National Legal Aid Bureau, and the responsibilities of the duty judge—a key figure in granting permissions related to finances and real estate for individuals under guardianship.

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This initiative is part of CluneTech’s ongoing commitment to fostering community engagement and supporting educational opportunities that empower young people in the region.

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CluneTech Cares: Supporting Young Racer Adam Butler

CluneTech is absolutely delighted to sponsor local young racer Adam Butler. We recently welcomed Adam to our Kilkenny HQ following his participation in the #T4NationsCup2024. Thanks to Adam and his team, we had the opportunity to see one of his racing karts in person, further highlighting our commitment to supporting young talent in the community. We look forward to following Adam's journey on the racetrack!

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Volunteering at CluneTech

Introduced in 2021, our CSR Volunteer Day empowers each employee to give back to the charities and causes closest to them. Since the inception of Volunteer Day, 160+ CluneTech employees have contributed to causes which they find meaningful, and this number keeps growing. See what they had to share with us about their experience this quarter:

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Our amazing colleagues Antonia Petrova and Silviya Krasteva volunteered at the latest edition of the ‘I believe and help’ campaign.

Antonia and Silvia brought 18 kg of plastic caps that the employees in our Varna office collected and spent the day supporting the cause at the Cathedral in the heart of the city.

‘I believe and help’ is a well-known Bulgarian initiative which is run biannually - once in the spring, and once in the autumn. It promotes plastic caps collection and recycling as a way to gather funds for buying vital medical equipment for children’s hospitals while also supporting the planet and recycling tons of plastic each year. Well done to Antonia and Silviya for their amazing work!

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Team Victory for CluneTech at the Mount Juliet Corporate Invitational

Last Thursday, CluneTech was proud to be represented at the annual Mount Juliet Corporate Invitational, where our team not only enjoyed spectacular weather but also played an exceptional round of golf.

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Competing with determination and skill, the team of Padraig Lahart, Jack O'Keeffe, Patrick Dalton, and David Dooley showcased their talent on the course, ultimately taking home the first-place prize!

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Thank you to Padraig, Jack, Patrick and David for supporting this event through CluneTech Cares.

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June 11th 2024, Varna, Bulgaria. CluneTech’s annual donation to Karin Dom will support their social enterprise, providing jobs for two mothers of children on the autism spectrum who use Karin Dom’s services in Varna, Bulgaria. Our donation ensures that the salaries and social contributions of these mothers are covered for six months, allowing them to continue working at Karin Dom while being close to their children and addressing the challenges of raising children with special needs.

Petya and Zhivka work in Karin Dom’s social enterprise while their sons attend Montessori groups and therapeutic swimming lessons. Initially, both mothers started as volunteers, seeking distraction from the challenges they faced while raising their children. As Karin Dom’s social enterprise formalized, they were invited to become employed.

Petya shares her experience:

"Eight years ago, I first stepped into Karin Dom for my son's initial assessment. I was anxious, scared, and didn't know what to expect. My son began attending therapies, and I joined the Parent Group. I was in denial about his Autism, but the group helped me recover and smile again. Volunteering kept me from constantly thinking about the difficulties, giving me satisfaction. I love helping, feeling good, and being useful. When the social enterprise was established, we started working there, and now I feel even more fulfilled. Karin Dom is where I found support, understanding, empathy, and guidance on how to cope with Mitaka's condition. Having a vocation is very valuable, and I am glad to be part of the Karin Dom team!"

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"Today, Petya and Zhivka craft toys for Karin Dom’s Christmas and Martenitsi campaigns, which are sold to support therapeutic programs for children with special needs.  “Handmade products require a lot of attention, skill, and time to prepare but Petya and Zhivka are continuously developing and are no longer afraid to tackle the sewing machine.”, our partners from Karin Dom shared.

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About CluneTech Cares. CluneTech’s CSR programme was established in September 2007 in response to a tragic flooding disaster in Tsar Kaloyan, Bulgaria. Deeply saddened by the news, our Bulgarian employees decided to help and within 48 hours, they had rallied together and organised 3.5 tonnes of food and 12,000 liters of water for the village. After this event, we formalised our CSR activity to give it a global reach, ensuring to support each of the communities in which we operate. Today we’re proud to have a CSR Programme that is created by our people, for our people.

Karin Dom is a Bulgarian non-profit organization founded in 1996 by hereditary diplomat and philanthropist Ivan Stancioff. 28 years on, Karin Dom is an organization with a leading role in providing professional services for children with special needs and their families. Set in the beautiful city of Varna, Bulgaria, Karin Dom's new building which opened in September 2022, gives children with special needs from the Northeast of Bulgaria access to vital therapy that helps them to grow in strength and confidence.

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At CluneTech, collaboration and recognition aren’t just buzzwords, they are the foundation of our culture. Nowhere is this more evident than in our OneTeam Awards, a signature recognition program that honours the spirit of unity, innovation, and excellence that drives our success.

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A Legacy of Recognition: From Employee of the Quarter to OneTeam Awards

Over 12 years ago, CluneTech launched an initiative to spotlight outstanding individual contributions through what was then known as Employee of the Quarter. As our company evolved, so too did our approach to recognition. In 2019, inspired by employee feedback, the program was reimagined and relaunched as the OneTeam Awards.

This transformation reflected more than just a name change — it marked a deeper commitment to recognising the collective effort that fuels our business.

Today, the OneTeam Awards take place twice a year, giving employees across the globe the opportunity to nominate a colleague whose contributions reflect one of our core values: Innovation, OneTeam, Passion, and Respect. These nominations reinforce our ongoing commitment to living these values in our everyday work.

The OneTeam Awards celebrate not only individual achievements but also the teamwork, creativity, camaraderie, and mutual respect that are essential to our culture and continued growth.

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Creating Moments That Matter

From lively in-office celebrations to heartfelt doorstep award deliveries during remote work, the OneTeam Awards have become a meaningful tradition filled with unforgettable moments. These celebrations strengthen the bonds between colleagues, highlighting the impact of each individual’s work, and reinforcing the values that make CluneTech a unique and inspiring place to be.

As our HR Manager in Bulgaria, Ekaterina Hristova, puts it:

“The OneTeam Awards represent more than just recognition, they show our people that what they do truly matters. These awards are a part of our company’s DNA. They celebrate our shared success and remind us that together, we are stronger.”

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Recognition Beyond the OneTeam Awards

While the OneTeam Awards are a standout celebration of collaboration and excellence, they’re just one part of CluneTech’s broader commitment to recognising our people. We offer a wide range of recognition initiatives that celebrate contributions both big and small, across all levels of the organisation:

• Milestone Recognition Programme – Honouring the dedication of our long-serving team members.

• Global Employee of the Year Awards – Celebrating individuals whose impact and performance have stood out over the year.

• Workvivo Shout-Outs – Enabling real-time, peer-to-peer recognition for everyday efforts and achievements, both within and across teams.

• Celebrating Personal and Professional Highlights – From birthday cards and new baby gifts to congratulatory hampers for passing exams, we take pride in acknowledging life’s special moments and supporting our employees in all their successes.

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A Culture Built on Recognition and Unity

At CluneTech, recognition is more than a program — it’s a reflection of who we are. The OneTeam Awards, along with our wider recognition initiatives, demonstrate our commitment to valuing every individual and celebrating the spirit of teamwork that drives our success. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain dedicated to fostering a culture where people feel seen, appreciated, and inspired — because when we celebrate each other, we thrive together.

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The Kilkenny-headquartered company today announced improvements across a range of leaves to support their people

Wednesday, 22 November 2023. Kilkenny-based software technology group, CluneTech, has today announced improvements across a range of leave types to support their people during the more difficult times they may face in life.

The changes announced today cover three key areas: compassionate leave, miscarriage and pregnancy loss leave, and IVF and pregnancy support leave. The announcement marks another significant step in CluneTech’s commitment to caring for, and supporting their people, and the additional leaves are available to all of the company’s 1,200 employees globally.

Compassionate leave, which is available from day one of employment, has been significantly increased, with the company now offering 4 weeks paid leave for the loss of a spouse or child. Employees can also avail of 5 days and 3 days paid leave for the loss of an immediate or non-immediate family member respectively.

For the first time in the company’s history, they are also recognising the important role that pets play in their employees’ lives, particularly as many people avail of CluneTech’s flexible working offering and choose to work from home. With this in mind, a dedicated Pet Compassionate Leave has been introduced where employees can avail of up to 2days paid leave for the loss of a beloved pet.

The new policy also includes extended paid leave of five days for those impacted by pregnancy loss when this occurs prior to 24weeks, as after this the company’s paid maternity leave applies. In addition, where an employee’s partner has experienced pregnancy loss, they are now covered in the policy and can avail of the full five days paid leave.

Access to, and support during fertility treatment is a key focus of CluneTech, who earlier this year announced their support of The I Want a Baby Foundation in Bulgaria. Employees based in Ireland can already avail of best-in-class fertility care as part of the company’s health cover with Laya Healthcare. Previously, employees could avail of up to 3 days paid leave for IVF and pregnancy support. This has now been increased to 5 days paid leave and extended to the partner of a person undergoing IVF / pregnancy support.

The improvements announced today are part of an already extensive benefits package which includes Lifework Days ̶ an additional half day’s leave per quarter where employees can get their life jobs done without having to use their hard-earned annual leave, flexible working ̶ including remote and hybrid working, an award-winning Milestone Recognition Programme which rewards those who choose to grow their career with CluneTech, and much more. Last month, CluneTech were awarded Overall Excellence in HR at the 2023 HR Leadership &Management Awards for their innovative approach to flexibility.

Speaking about the leave enhancements, Terry Clune, CEO, CluneTech said: “CluneTech Cares about our people and their wellbeing and today’s announcement further strengthens our commitment to supporting them through the more difficult times they may face in life. Our people are at the heart of everything we do and as their employer, it’s our goal to ensure they feel supported and cared for, so that they can reach their full potential.”

Rachael Quinlan, Head of Employee Experience, CluneTech said: “We are really honoured to share these remarkable improvements with our global team. While these leave types tend to be the ones that we hope our people will never have to avail of, we hope that they take some comfort in knowing that our aim is to minimise their worries during challenging times. As always, these changes have been introduced as a direct result of employee feedback and we will continue to use their voice to drive change and to ensure that we truly are a great place to work.”

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At CluneTech we are extremely passionate about the development of our people and understand the significance of the role a manager has to play in an employee’s development. With that in mind, we wanted to put together a useful guide that would empower and help our managerial staff to be the best manager that they can be. And who better to help us put together such a guide than our employees?

We asked our staff to nominate their manager and state three qualities that make them an Amazing Manager. The response was fantastic with 20 different managerial qualities being suggested. We then took the 6 most suggested qualities and expanded on them to create the ‘CluneTech Guide to Being an Amazing Manager’ which you can read below:

6 of the Most Important Managerial Qualities

1) Supportive

The managerial quality that our people value most is being ‘Supportive’. A manager can be supportive in many ways, whether it is ensuring that their team are aware that they can come to them should they need help, or by displaying encouragement, helping them to realise their potential, and showing appreciation for a job well done. Emotional Intelligence is a vital characteristic of a supportive manager. Having the awareness to recognize when something is troubling a member of your team or if they are in danger of becoming burnt out or disengaged is vital. The likes of LinkedIn Learning and Udemy offer some great courses on Emotional Intelligence should you wish to learn more about this important soft skill.

2) Approachable

Our staff feel that being “Approachable” is the next most important characteristic for a manager. Approachability is imperative to forging a strong bond with your team. Having an approachable manager relaxes staff, allowing them to work to the best of their ability. Additionally, it increases their willingness to share new ideas as they know their manager is open to suggestions. Lacking in approachability will make it difficult to know what is going on with your team. Being approachable and building a good rapport with your team will encourage them to come to you with issues, updates, and information, more frequently, ensuring that you stay in the loop. This article by Forbes includes a great section on “How to Show Approachability”.

Our employees appreciate that open door policy!

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3) Leading by Example

As a manager, your team are looking to you for guidance. By leading by example you are able to create a picture of what’s possible. Here are some ways you can effectively lead by example;

Take Responsibility –Show that you are not above taking responsibility for when something doesn’t go to plan. Be proactive and get to work on correcting and bettering the situation.

Resolve Conflict Quickly – Conflict resolution is one of the most important skills a manager can have. Demonstrate that skill and put out any fires within your team quickly so that they don’t get out of control. By doing this you will set a good example and encourage your team to be proactive and quickly settle disputes between themselves.

Be Persistent – Another trait of strong leadership is the ability to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. Set an example for your team by dealing with issues in a proactive and constructive manner.

For more information on the benefit of Leading by Example and how to do it, check out this article by Indeed – 8 Ways to Lead by Example in the Workplace.

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4) Reliable

Our employees also identified being “Reliable” as an important characteristic for a manager to possess. A manager in charge of a team must be dependable. This involves being accessible to your staff, completing tasks as promised, and assisting your team as needed. Reliability is essential for building trust as it affords your team greater peace of mind, ultimately allowing for stronger relationships to be built and greater results to be delivered. Check out this blog post by Great Place to Work on “The Crucial Role of Reliable and Trustworthy Managers During a Crisis”.

5) Motivating

There are a multitude of reasons as to why being a good motivator is essential when managing a team of people. Some of the advantages of a motivated team include; Increased Efficiency, Better Communication, Reduced Absenteeism and Turnover, Development of Leaders, and much more.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to suddenly become a Ted Talk caliber motivational speaker... Here are “9 Super Effective Ways to Motivate your Team” by Inc. to get your started.

6) Clear Communication

The last valuable managerial characteristic, as identified by CluneTech employees, that we’ll discuss here in detail is “Clear Communication”. Building effective communication skills as a manager provides significant short and long-term benefits for your company and team. For example, a good communicator may inspire your team to accomplish more with better results and fewer misunderstandings. Take a look at this piece by Professional Development covering “Communication Skills for Managers”.

The importance of being a good listener also must not be understated when it comes to communication. By being a good listener a manager can not only secure new insights, ideas, and perspectives that will help their team to grow, but also maintain harmony and motivation among team members and ensure that they are a great people manager.

So there you have it, six of the most important managerial qualities as suggested by our employees. CluneTech is all about brilliant people and innovative technology, with the dynamic between our management and non-management staff being crucial to our success.

Do you have the qualities necessary to lead a team of CluneTech employees? Or do you want to work under an amazing management team that will help you to realise your potential. Whatever stage of your career you’re at, CluneTech may have the role for you. Visit www.clunetech.com/careers and explore our amazing opportunities today.

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