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
2026 Judging Panel
Brian Coll (Judging Coordinator)
Lecturer, Lean & Operational Excellence, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo
Brian is a lecturer and course co-ordinator for the Lean & OpEx programmes at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) - the largest provider of accredited Yellow, Green and Black Belt programmes in Ireland. VIEW MORE
Robert Burdock
Site Operational Excellence Lead - Ireland, IMIL - Ipsen Manufacturing Ireland Limited
Rob Burdock is the Site OpEx Lead who manages the implementation of the overall Enterprise Excellence strategy for the Ipsen Dublin site, in partnership with site management team. He is the lead in our preparation for the Shingo Assessment and ensures our culture is sustained. 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
Ian Gourlay
Founder of BP Solutions and Lecturer for SETU, Business Process Solutions
Ian worked for 10 years with Toyota Motor Corporation and holds a Master of Business in Lean Practice. He is an Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland Lean Service Provider, is on the steering committee of the Operational Excellence Association of Ireland and lectures in Operational Excellence for SETU. VIEW MORE
Alessandro Laureani
Lecturer, University of Buckingham
Operational Excellence and Business Transformation leader, researcher, lecturer, and published author in the fields of Leadership, Operational Excellence, Quality Management and Continuous improvement. VIEW MORE
Gary Mander
Procurement Transformation - Senior Manager, EY
Gary is a Senior Manager with EY and advises clients on complex procurement and transformation projects, helping organisations optimise processes, deliver value, and align procurement strategies with broader business objectives. VIEW MORE
Olivia McDermott
Associate Professor, University of Galway
Dr Olivia McDermott is an Associate Professor in Operational Excellence & Regulatory Affairs at the University of Galway. VIEW MORE
Michael O'Callaghan
Director, IPICS The Supply Chain Management Institute
Michael is a Supply Chain Training Consultant and Instructor, and also works as a contract SAP Applications Consultant and SAP Trainer. Michael is a Director of IPICS The Supply Chain Management Institute and is a member of the Logistics and Supply Chain Skills Group chaired by the Irish Department of Transport. Michael is a Judge on the Irish Logistics & Transport Awards, and the National Procurement Awards. 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
Darren Woods
CEO, WD Excellence
Darren is the CEO of WD Excellence, a consulting business specialising in helping businesses embed a culture of Lean and Operational Excellence. VIEW MORE
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