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Case Study – MidWest Fire and Security

Case Study

MidWest Fire and Security

Midwest Fire and Security, led by Peter Mernagh, is a fast-growing provider of fire safety and security systems serving clients across the Midwest region of Ireland. As the company experienced a period of sustained expansion (including the acquisition of other businesses with existing employees) it became clear that stronger HR foundations were needed to support continued growth. To support this evolution, Peter engaged with Ruairi and GHR Consulting to introduce HR systems and policies, assist with onboarding new teams, and guide the successful rollout of a 4-day working week.

Task

With growth accelerating and staff numbers increasing, Midwest Fire and Security required support in several key HR areas:

  • Bringing contracts and policies up to date with employment legislation.

  • Creating a scalable HR infrastructure to support a growing, multi-location team.

  • Introducing a flexible 4-day working week.

  • Assisting with recruitment and onboarding during a key period of expansion.

Approach

We took a structured, phased approach to HR development at Midwest Fire and Security.
1. HR Foundations
We began by reviewing all existing employment contracts and documentation, identifying areas needing updates to ensure full compliance with Irish employment law. A full suite of HR policies was introduced alongside a customised employee handbook, tailored to the evolving needs of the business.
2. Implementation of a 4-Day Week
One of the most progressive moves by Midwest Fire and Security was the introduction of a 4-day working week for staff. GHR Consulting supported this transition by:

  • Advising on operational feasibility and legal considerations.

  • Preparing a clear communication strategy for staff.

  • Delivering an employee-facing presentation to explain the reasons behind the change and the mutual benefits.

  • Ensuring revised contracts and policies reflected the new arrangement.

3. Supporting Growth Through Recruitment
As the business grew, organically and through acquisitions, GHR Consulting assisted in sourcing and onboarding new talent. Our recruitment support ensured that the right candidates were brought in efficiently, aligning with the company’s values and operational needs. We also helped integrate staff from acquired businesses, ensuring a consistent employee experience and cultural alignment.

Results & Impact

  • Contracts & Compliance: All employees now have up-to-date employment contracts in place and access to a robust HR framework.

  • Flexible Working Success: The shift to a 4-day working week was well received by the team and became a key differentiator in attracting talent.

  • Recruitment Impact: The new work structure and clear HR processes helped drive a strong recruitment response, positioning Midwest Fire and Security as a modern and progressive employer.