All award submissions are reviewed by our highly experienced independent judging panel.
The judging panel is comprised of industry experts in the field of Analytics and AI who will evaluate each entry based on agreed criteria for each category.
These criteria take into account factors such as originality, impact, and technical excellence thus ensuring that the awards reflect the best and most innovative work in the industry.
Dr Angela McCourt
Dr Angela McCourt is a highly accomplished data professional with a Ph.D. in Statistics from Trinity College Dublin. She currently serves as the Director of Data & Technology at Coimisiún na Meán, leading a team of data professionals and overseeing all aspects of the data lifecycle.
Throughout her career, Angela has held significant positions in various public sector organisations, including Dublin City Council, the Health Service Executive (HSE), and the Central Statistics Office. She has demonstrated expertise in data governance, analytics, and privacy.
At the HSE, Angela played a crucial role in COVID-19 data analysis, leading a team responsible for geo-referencing confirmed cases and providing geo-spatial analysis. Her work during the pandemic earned her several awards, including the Zachary Johnson Award in 2022.
Angela's academic background includes a Ph.D. in Statistics, an MSc in Cybersecurity Management, and multiple related qualifications. She is a Fellow of Information Privacy (FIP) and holds certifications as a Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) and Certified Information Privacy Professional/Europe (CIPP/E).
In her current role, Angela is instrumental in developing data infrastructure, data management policies, implementing best practices in data governance, and promoting data literacy. Her expertise is crucial in implementing regulatory frameworks that ensure a safe and diverse media environment.
Angela's career is distinguished by her dedication to fostering data-driven decision-making in organisations and her commitment to advancing data analytics in public sector bodies in Ireland. She actively engages with stakeholders to identify best practices and has successfully organised data-focused conferences to share knowledge and insights.
Brian Mullen
Brian is a Principal Data Science Leader overseeing a global team of Data Scientists for Microsoft Copilot and M365 within the Experience & Devices Organization. He also heads the Terrain AI sustainability research initiative with Research Ireland, Maynooth University, and Microsoft. Terrain AI aims to enhance our understanding of GHG exchanges in various landscapes through innovative AI methodologies.
Bryan Sweeney
With over 15 years of extensive experience in the Customer Success and Support domains, Bryan Sweeney has established a career building and leading a multifaceted team of analysts, data scientists, developers, and engineers at Autodesk. Bryan is renowned for his innovative mindset, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an ability to harness data to drive excellence in customer and employee experiences and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Recently, Bryan has been at the forefront of providing data and insights for the convergence of Generative AI and human support.
Jean de Villiers
Jean De Villiers is a seasoned expert in SAS and AI with over a decade of experience leading data science teams at Idiro Analytics and MultiChoice. As Head of Analytics at SAS, Jean specializes in the full analytics lifecycle, focusing on bridging the gap between technology and people. He collaborates with clients to maximize the value of SAS software, fostering trust in AI and driving transformative outcomes. Jean holds the title for most SAS® Certifications globally and is dedicated to innovation in AI, Big Data, Machine Learning, and Analytics.
Lyndsay Shields
Lyndsay leads the comprehensive data strategy for the organisation that encompasses data management, architecture, analytics, and AI. She leads a team of skilled data professionals responsible for initiatives that enhance both customer experience and business value. As a member of the Bank’s Technology Leadership Team she plays a key role in the Bank’s Digital Transformation delivered through the team of team of 140 engineers, developers and analysts based in Belfast.
Gurchand Singh
Gurchand Singh has held the position of Chief Information Officer for the Department of Justice and Equality since 2018.
He joined An Garda Síochána in 2007 as Head of the Analysis Service, with the key responsibilities of establishing and running the new service.
Prior to this, he was Programme Director for the Crime and Drugs Analysis and Research programme in the Home Office in London. He has held other research positions at the Home Office covering community relations and race relations.
He has also been a university lecturer specialising in social research methods, social theory, and social stratification. He holds a BA, MA and PhD in Sociology.
Tony Clarke
Strategic technology leader with 20+ years of experience driving digital and AI-led transformation across the Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Life Sciences sectors. As SVP of Digital Operations at ICON, Tony lead’s global technology functions that enables technology for 42,000+ employees across 100+ offices, bringing together enterprise systems, cloud strategy, cybersecurity, and enterprise AI.
Tony is passionate about the intersection of AI, data, and biotechnology.
Tony is certified in AI, cybersecurity, cloud, and data leadership, with credentials from DCU, UL, UCC, MIT, Harvard and Microsoft.
Tony Gill
Tony Gill is an experienced Chief Data Officer and Digital Transformation specialist. He has worked in various roles across multiple international organizations and sectors.
Tony's expertise in data-driven innovation and their ability to identify untapped value in complex data landscapes make him an asset in advising major organizations on data strategy and implementation.
Tony has also served on the board of RWE AG as an external board member for their Digital Transformation.
Tony Gill earned their MBA degree from the University of Bradford from 2000 to 2003.
Kate Sugrue
Kate Sugrue is a data and AI specialist with a strong foundation in mathematics, which underpins her analytical approach to solving complex problems. With a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions across finance, insurance, and healthcare, Kate has led impactful initiatives that combine statistical rigour with real-world business insight. Kate's deep experience bridges the gap between theory and application, driving innovation through machine learning, advanced analytics, and responsible AI practices. A passionate advocate for data ethics and intelligent system design, Kate brings both strategic and technical expertise to the forefront of digital transformation to solve real-world problems and drive innovation in complex industries.