Judging Panel

An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, representing the operational discipline, will determine the winners of the Operational Excellence 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 business operations.

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.

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

2025 Judging Panel

Eric Clinton

Director DCU National Centre for Family Business, DCU

Eric Clinton is an Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship at DCU Business School. Dr Clinton is the Director of the DCU National Centre for Family Business, a leading European family business research centre. Eric works with some of Europe’s leading family firms to navigate the succession process. VIEW MORE

paul davis

Associate Professor, Dublin City University

Dr Davis is an Associate Professor in Strategic Procurement and Supply Management at Dublin City University. Dr. Davis left industry after 15 years in senior supply management roles to pursue a PhD and a research career in procurement and supply management. VIEW MORE

steve giles

Head of Operations, Aurivo consumer foods

Steve is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in leading operations within the FMCG sector, with a particular focus on the dairy industry. With a career spanning over 35 years, has consistently demonstrated a passion for optimizing processes and continuous improvement. VIEW MORE

Miriam Keogh

Head of Supply Chain, Lean and Human Resources, Dawn Farm Foods Ltd

Miriam sits on the Leadership team in Dawn Farm Foods and is Head of Supply Chain, HR and Lean Continuous Improvement. She has an MSC in Supply Chain and a Lean Black Belt and believes passionately in the power of great team work and sustainable long term solutions. VIEW MORE

Seamus O'Reilly

Senior Lecturer, UCC

Dr Seamus O’Reilly is Academic Director of Supply Chain Management (SCM) programmes in Cork University Business School, UCC. His research interests include supply chain networks, supply chain sustainability and business process management. VIEW MORE

Patrick Quinn

Head of Operations, Cheshire Ireland

The focus of Patrick’s work is the support Cheshire Ireland in their vision “to support people to live their best possible life”. As the Head of Operations, he aims to support their staff to work in line with the values of the organisation. VIEW MORE