Judges

The selection process for the awards involves an impartial panel of industry experts who generously volunteer their time to evaluate submissions. These individuals are chosen for their expertise and experience. Judges eview entries, ensuring a fair and unbiased evaluation. In cases where judges have conflicts of interest within specific categories, they abstain from participating in the assessment of those particular entries. Upon the submission deadline, judges receive all entries in a uniform format, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. Each entry is then scored by the judges based on the defined criteria for each category. Judges meet to discuss their assessments and collectively reach a final decision on a single day, solely based on the content provided in the written entries. It is crucial to note that the entire judging process is conducted confidentially, and all decisions reached during this process are considered final.

The 2024 Judges will be announced shortly.......

Julie McKeown

Group HR Director - Henry Brothers Ltd

Employed by the family business Henry Brothers Ltd since leaving formal education, Julie has dedicated her working life to the construction industry. With over 30 years’ experience, Julie sits on the Henry Group Board, holding the role of Group HR Director and oversees the Group IT and Training and Development departments. Julie plays a key role in the company’s overall strategic direction and strategy, whilst providing direct leadership in ensuring the health, wellbeing, and continued development of all staff. She plays a key role in driving the company’s Corporate Responsibility and Social Value strategies, ensuring that the company’s
activities have a positive impact on the environment, places and societies where they work. A member of the IoD, Julie has maintained her own training and development over the years through various management and
Leadership courses and has undergone the Timoney Advanced Leadership course. Julie is also an independent member of the Mid Ulster PCSP, vice-chair of the Mid Ulster Labour Market Partnership and also sits on the Board of the Construction Industry Training Board.

Darragh Cullen

Managing Director & Co-owner - EDGE Innovate

Darragh Cullen is the dynamic Managing Director and Co-owner of EDGE Innovate, a global leader in designing and manufacturing equipment utilised in the recycling, materials handling, and quarrying industries. Under the leadership of the current owners, EDGE Innovate has established itself as a leading brand in these industries. Ranked among the Top 100 companies in Northern Ireland, EDGE Innovate now exports to over 70 countries and has experienced year-on-year growth since its establishment. The company has earned multiple accolades, including the prestigious Queen's Award for International Trade and a Platinum Level Best Managed Company accreditation from Deloitte Ireland. Beyond his role at EDGE Innovate, Darragh is the Chairman of MEGA (Manufacturing and Engineering Growth Advancement), where he champions skills development in Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector. He also serves as the Chairman of St. Malachy’s GAC Edendork, fostering community spirit and athletic participation.

Catherine Martin

Partner - Cavanagh Kelly

During her time with CavanaghKelly, Catherine has taken a strong lead in developing our Accounts and Audit as well as our Advisory and Tax functions. Catherine has a key role in leading teams on the provision of audit and accounting services to clients ranging from SME’s to large corporations, charities, not-for-profit, professional services firms and high net worth individuals. Catherine has a strong interest in education and professional development. Catherine lectured the ATI Taxation and Advanced Taxation in South West College over a 8 year period. In 2015, Catherine changed from her role as a lecturer to one as an External Examiner. Catherine is also author of the ATI Taxation and Advanced Taxation manuals which are the recommended reading resource for the course in NI.

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