Taking tree work across the water

Discover how Kingfisher Tree Services expanded from the UK into Ireland’s Utility Arb sector,  growing their team, skills, and success on ESB contracts.

From UK roots to Irish branches

When you think of Ireland, you might picture rolling green hills, quiet country lanes, and friendly faces. For Kingfisher Tree Services, it’s also become a land of opportunity,  where a UK-based team found growth, stability, and new skills in Utility Arboriculture.

We spoke with Tom, Director of Kingfisher Tree Services, and Adam, one of his team leaders, about their experience working on ESB contracts with Ground Control, and how Ireland has opened doors for both business and personal development.

Finding opportunity in utility arb

“A couple of years back, we noticed a decline in domestic work,” explains Tom. “So we went looking for new avenues — and Utility Arb stood out.”

After contracting with a few companies, Kingfisher joined forces with Ground Control, which supports vegetation management and tree surgery across Ireland. That partnership proved transformative.

“They’ve enabled us to pretty much double in size over the last year or two,” says Tom.

Today, Kingfisher Tree Services is a medium-sized UK firm with around a dozen team members, balancing domestic work at home with powerline clearance and utility vegetation management in Ireland.

Training, safety, and support

Starting work in Ireland came with a strong focus on training and safety.

“When we first came over, they got us all qualified,” says Tom. “There are quite a few certifications you need to work on the lines, and they pushed us to get up to standard quickly.”

From electrical safety to advanced climbing and felling near live lines, the team has invested heavily in professional development.

“The more you learn, the better you get at your job,” adds Tom. “

This commitment to safety and continual improvement is what defines Utility Arboriculture and sets it apart as a rewarding long-term career path for skilled arborists.

Work hard, rest well: The 10-day rotation

The Kingfisher team operates on a ten-day rotation, followed by a four-day weekend back home.

“We come out and work ten days straight, usually from 8 a.m. to about 5:30 p.m.,” says Adam. “It’s full-on, but we try to make the most of our time out here.”

That structure allows the team to stay focused, productive, and efficient — while still maintaining a healthy balance between work and home life.

Team spirit, motivation, and Irish weather

Even with the unpredictable Irish weather, the team atmosphere stays positive. Kingfisher operates a bonus scheme, ensuring everyone shares in the rewards of a good week’s work.

“Everyone tends to have a smile on their face,” says Tom. “You can’t really complain.”

Keeping communities safe and connected

Working in Utility Arboriculture isn’t just about clearing trees; it’s about keeping people connected. By managing vegetation safely around powerlines, the team helps protect rural communities from power outages and ensures a reliable supply across Ireland.

“We get to meet a lot of nice, friendly landowners,” 

“Ireland’s a great place to work, rural, no traffic, and people are genuinely welcoming.”

Join Ground Control Ireland

 Whether you’re an existing UK/ROI-based team or an individual looking to form a team, we want to hear from you!

📩 Contact Jon Addis today 
| M: 07803 016186 | E: jon.addis@ground-control.co.uk or complete our short form below