Helping YOUR business stand tall
What does a giraffe have to do with purpose and sustainability?
For a start, giraffes stand tall. They see further, spot what’s coming, and plan ahead – exactly what businesses need to do to survive and thrive in a fast‑changing world.
No two giraffes have the same markings, and no two businesses are the same either. We treat yours as unique, offering support shaped around your specific needs.
And finally, with some giraffe species now critically endangered, conservation really matters. That’s where we come in – helping your business be sustainable, resilient, and valuable to the society it serves. Just like the giraffe.
I’m Gillian McKee, founder and Managing Director
I’ve devoted my career to helping businesses thrive responsibly and sustainably.
With over 20 years at Business in the Community NI – latterly as Deputy MD – I’ve supported countless companies to find their purpose and build a legacy that lasts.
I set up GIRAFFE Associates in 2020 to use that experience to help companies make sense of sustainability, embrace it with confidence, and enjoy the rewards.
Sally joining the team in 2025 has plugged gaps in my expertise to build a small team that can support companies to tackle a wide range of challenges, from environmental compliance to resource efficiency, to strategy and reporting.
Plus, we’re lucky to have a brilliant network of associates – so if there’s a gap in our expertise, you can trust us to bring in exactly the right person to deliver for you.
Fun Fact: Although I called the company GIRAFFE Associates, for all the reasons mentioned above, my favourite animal is actually the otter!
I’m Sally O’Kane, Senior Consultant
I have spent over 25 years helping organisations navigate the complexities of environmental, health, and safety management. My career began in the RAF as an Environmental and Occupational Health specialist, where I developed a foundation for problem-solving in high-pressure roles across the UK and the Middle East.
For the past 15 years, I’ve supported many companies, particularly in food manufacturing and renewable fuels, to embrace resource efficiency. I’m passionate about the circular economy and helping businesses move away from traditional linear models to find innovative ways to reuse resources and minimise their environmental footprint.
Joining GIRAFFE Associates in 2025 has allowed me to combine my technical background in compliance with Gillian’s strategic vision. From supporting with environmental and H&S audits to scope 3 measurement and supply chain support, I provide practical, resource-efficient solutions that businesses need to reduce their impact and be sustainable.
Fun Fact: I have an absolute love for the outdoors and nature. In my spare time you will often find me out in the hills, foraging in the woods or cold-water dipping!
Become a sustainable business
We want to help your business be sustainable and add value to the world
