Meet Our Team
We offer a wealth of experience and resources to support and grow your business.
The dynamic Innovation Factory team delivers so much more than just workspace management. Our experts can connect you with local business contacts, provide personalised 1-2-1 support, and offer guidance on local opportunities. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual assistance, we are here to help you succeed. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most – your business.
Cara Dallat
Centre Director
Meet Cara, the Centre Director at Innovation Factory.
Cara is an accomplished business and economic development leader with over 20 years’ experience in marketing, business development, national programme management and executive leadership. A graduate of Napier University, Edinburgh (BA Communication, 2003), she has recently taken up the role of Centre Director at the Innovation Factory in Belfast, where she is focused on driving growth and innovation.
From 2016 to 2025, Cara served as Chief Executive of CIDO Ltd., leading a team of 10 and delivering a wide range of business support programmes, including the national Go Succeed start-up initiative. She managed a 120,000 sq. ft. portfolio of industrial and office space across Craigavon, Portadown and Lurgan, supporting over 100 businesses and 500 employees. Previously, she was Programme Manager for Northern Ireland’s £1m ‘Go for It’ start-up scheme. A Chartered Marketer and active member of several professional bodies, Cara has twice been named ‘Social Leader of the Year’ at the Northern Ireland Women’s Awards (2019, 2023).
Claire Crerand
Centre Manager
Cara brings extensive senior management and sales experience to the Centre
Claire is working as Centre Manager covering a maternity post at Innovation Factory. With a degree in Spanish with Events Management Claire has spent most of her career in management/senior management within the tourism and hospitality sector. Bringing years of experience in sales, customer service, processes and financials this felt like a perfect fit for the start of a career change. Being a part of the innovation factory has been a great challenge for Claire and she has loved her time here so far.
Rebekah Griffith
Centre Manager
Rebekah is the powerhouse driving Innovation Factory’s sales…
operations, and finances. After stepping in as maternity cover in 2020, she returned to the team full-time in May 2022. With the help of our wonderful centre team, Rebekah ensures that every customer receives outstanding service while keeping the building running smoothly.
Chris Moffitt
Assistant
Centre Manager
Chris supports the day-to-day running of the Innovation Factory…
and is responsible for all operations, compliance, and health & safety within the Centre. Alongside Rebekah, he also handles the sales and finance side of the business.
Orla McKeating
Business Growth Manager
Orla McKeating and the Innovation Factory team provide…
…personalized one-on-one business coaching designed to transform your ideas into income. With expert guidance in strategic business planning, marketing, financial management, fundraising, and more, we empower you to elevate your business to new heights. Using our wider network to help you connect and collaborate, let us help you unlock your full potential and take your business to the next level.
Johnny
Facilities
Officer
Johnny ensures the safety and functionality of the Centre…
…through security and support services. He helps Rebekah with scheduled and emergency maintenance and is always available to assist customers and staff with security and access concerns. Additionally, he coordinates the scheduling of our meeting and conference rooms.
Orla McKeating
Business Growth Manager
Orla McKeating and the Innovation Factory team provide…
…personalized one-on-one business coaching designed to transform your ideas into income. With expert guidance in strategic business planning, marketing, financial management, fundraising, and more, we empower you to elevate your business to new heights. Using our wider network to help you connect and collaborate, let us help you unlock your full potential and take your business to the next level.
Johnny
Facilities
Officer
Johnny ensures the safety and functionality of the Centre…
…through security and support services. He helps Rebekah with scheduled and emergency maintenance and is always available to assist customers and staff with security and access concerns. Additionally, he coordinates the scheduling of our meeting and conference rooms.
Rebekah Griffith
Centre Manager
Rebekah is the powerhouse driving Innovation Factory’s sales…
operations, and finances. After stepping in as maternity cover in 2020, she returned to the team full-time in May 2022. With the help of our wonderful centre team, Rebekah ensures that every customer receives outstanding service while keeping the building running smoothly.
Connect and collaborate at our purpose-built workspace for the innovators of Belfast.
