Question 1: To start, could you give us a brief overview of your business and the role it plays within your industry? 

Codex is a second-generation family business, founded by my father, Brendan Murphy, in 1979. I've since taken ownership and have led the company as CEO since 2019. From our beginnings in the Dublin Industrial Estate in Glasnevin, we’ve grown to become Ireland’s leading provider of office supplies and services. Today, with a team of over 90 people and 18 vans on the road, we support organisations across the country in both the public and private sectors.

Despite our growth, our values remain the same as in the early days – a commitment to service, value, and integrity. We’ve built a complete range of solutions to help businesses run more efficiently, while keeping sustainability and innovation at the heart of everything we do. From reducing packaging and improving delivery efficiencies to curating modern, high-quality furniture ranges, we always look for better ways to support our customers.

With over 45 years of experience behind us, we aim to help Irish businesses create efficient, inclusive, and sustainable workplaces for the future.

Question 2: How would you characterise the business landscape in Dublin - and how is it evolving? 

Dublin’s business landscape is evolving rapidly, shaped by new ways of working and rising expectations of the modern workplace. Hybrid and flexible models are now the norm, driving organisations to rethink their spaces, embrace digital tools, and create environments that balance collaboration with individual focus. As Ireland’s economic hub, the city has shown remarkable resilience, with businesses quickly adapting, innovating, and reimagining how work gets done.

We see these shifts reflected in our customers’ needs: greater productivity, flexibility, and sustainability, alongside solutions that support a more diverse workforce. That’s why we’re launching our neuroinclusion office range with AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity, at this year’s Autism Europe Congress. Designed to create accessible, functional, and inclusive spaces, it helps organisations better support neurodiverse employees and foster true inclusion.

In many ways, Dublin’s evolving business environment mirrors our own journey – demanding adaptability, forward thinking, and a commitment to building strong, sustainable foundations for long-term growth.

Question 3: What strategies have you put in place to drive innovation in your business? 

Since becoming CEO six years ago, my focus has been on keeping Codex relevant and resilient in a rapidly changing industry by investing in two key areas: people and technology.

On the people side, we’ve built a collaborative, supportive culture that values development, wellbeing, and inclusion. We’ve strengthened our leadership team with specialists across supply chain, customer experience, and new business. We've also introduced flexible working, wellness programmes, and company days to connect and align our teams. Partnering with AsIAm on neurodiversity training has further helped us create an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.

On the technology side, we’ve modernised our systems to make procurement easier and more efficient. We use data to understand customer needs, streamline supply chains, and reduce waste.

These strategies mean Codex isn’t just keeping pace with change – we’re helping to shape how Irish businesses source, equip, and manage their workplaces for the future.

Question 4: When it comes to attracting and retaining top talent, how competitive is the landscape and how are you navigating it?  

Attracting and retaining top talent in today’s market is highly competitive. From our experience, salary and incentives matter, but what really makes the difference is creating a workplace where people can do their best work. That’s why we focus so much on building the right team – because our people are at the heart of Codex’s success.

We’ve invested heavily in our recruitment strategy, employer branding, and internal policies to achieve this. Our benefits and hybrid working model are among the best in our sector, which helps us attract strong candidates. Just as importantly, we offer professional development, wellbeing programmes, and inclusive workplace practices so that people feel supported and valued – recognition of which has seen Codex certified as a Great Place to Work® since 2017 and named one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies in 2023 and 2024.

Question 5: Looking ahead, what do you see as the most pressing challenge facing Dublin-based businesses in 2025? 

Two challenges stand out for Dublin-based businesses: shaping the future workplace and realising the true value of people while balancing technology and efficiency.

Hybrid and flexible models are here to stay, pushing organisations to rethink their spaces, embrace digital tools, and create environments that foster collaboration, focus, and wellbeing. At the same time, they’re under pressure to deliver greater productivity, sustainability, and support for an increasingly diverse workforce.

The rise of AI and other digital tools offers opportunities to reduce costs and streamline operations, but success depends on balance. Human insight, creativity, and adaptability remain irreplaceable, and the organisations that thrive will use technology to enhance efficiency without losing sight of people as their greatest asset.

Question 6: How has your engagement with Dublin Chamber supported your business goals or strategic direction? 

Being part of Dublin Chamber has been a great way for Codex to build connections, share ideas, and keep workplace innovation at the forefront. The Chamber played a key role in our first Neuroinclusion in the Workplace event, allowing us to showcase our partnership with AsIAm and highlight how businesses can create more inclusive and supportive work environments. The event also opened the door to new conversations with other organisations and a valuable exchange of ideas around neurodiversity.

We also welcome the many networking opportunities, access to insights, and forums that cover the issues shaping Irish business. It helps us stay informed, benchmark our work, and connect with others focused on sustainable growth and innovation.