Judging Panel
An independent panel of recognised and expert leaders will determine the winners of the Association and Institutes Awards.
We understand the importance of a fair and objective judging process. That's why we assemble a prestigious panel of industry leaders, renowned for their extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise in the business industry.
Our selection process is meticulous. Judges are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and declare any potential conflicts of interest. Entries with conflicts are reassigned, ensuring complete impartiality.
A comprehensive judging process has been developed to decide the winners of the Association and Institutes Awards.
This unwavering commitment to integrity is the foundation of our awards programme. Become a part of recognising industry excellence. If you're interested in joining the judging panel, email your details to judges@businessriver.com
2024 Judging Panel
Michael Bulman (Judging Coordinator)
Alliances Director, Kyndryl Ireland
Accomplished senior executive with deep experience in business leadership roles in the IT Services industry. Non-profit board member and former President of the MBA Association of Ireland. VIEW MORE
Vanessa Brady
CEO & Founder, The Society of British and International Interior Design
Vanessa is an international award-winning interior designer and founder of the Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID) with over thirty years experience in the design industry, championing standards and representing the interests of the interior design profession in Government. VIEW MORE
Angela Connolly
Creative Director, Conbu Interior Design
Angela Connolly founded Conbu Interior Design in 2008 and leads the studio as Creative Director. She was President of the Interiors Association of Ireland (2014 to 2020), and is a member of the Institute of Designers in Ireland and the Irish Georgian Society. VIEW MORE
Willie Donnelly
Director of Research and Innovation, The Technical Higher Education Association THEA
President of Waterford Institute of Technology (2015-2022) and VP of Research and Innovation (2004-2015). Founder and Director of TSSG Research Centre (Walton Institute) 1996-2015. Created 5 spinout companies including FeedHenry which was acquired by RedHat 2014 VIEW MORE
Angela Guillemet
Founding Partner, Association Innovation
Angela is founder of Association Innovation a consultancy which advises associations and helps them thrive and stay relevant in a changing world. VIEW MORE
Mark Hughes
Director of Membership & Communications, Charities Institute Ireland
Mark is the Director of Communications & Membership Services at Charities Institute Ireland, the representative body for Ireland’s leading and high-impact fundraising charities. VIEW MORE
Steve Mungavin
Chairman, CIPFA Northern Ireland
Steve is a well-respected international expert in leadership and corporate governance with a stellar record providing policy guidance, lecturing and training, and consulting. He has worked at political, Board, and Chief Executive levels in Ireland, UK, Europe, Africa and with the UN in New York. VIEW MORE
Brian Rowntree CBE
Chief Executive, Business Improvement Services
Brian Rowntree CBE is an experienced Senior Executive having served in both private and public sector boardrooms over the past 35 years both as Executive Director and Chairperson. He has an executive background in financial management , strategic policy formulation and corporate governance. VIEW MORE
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