Judging Panel

An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, drawn from academia, business and broader related sectors will determine the winners of the Event Impact 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 events 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 Event Impact 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

2025 Judging Panel

June O'Byrne-Prior (Judging Coordinator)

Head of Department of Hospitality, Tourism & Wellness, Technological University of the Shannon

June is currently in the role of Head of Department of Hospitality, Tourism & Wellness at TUS Moylish Campus. VIEW MORE

Dr John Carty

Lecturer and Researcher in the Galway International Hotel School, Atlantic Technological University

John is a lecturer and researcher in the Galway International Hotel School, Atlantic Technological University (ATU). John teaches marketing, public relations and management modules on a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in ATU, is a Fellow of the Irish Hospitality Institute and VIEW MORE

Colm Croffy

Executive Director, Association of Irish Festival Events

With over 30 years experience of running community festivals and events nationwide, he now acts as a mentor and consultant to a host of festival clients and stakeholders . VIEW MORE

Lorraine Dunne

Lecturer & Programme Director, Dundalk Institute

Lorraine Dunne is a Lecturer and Programme Director for the BA in Event Management at Dundalk Institute. She has been teaching in the area of Event, Tourism and Hospitality Management for a number of years after initially working in industry upon graduation from her own studies. VIEW MORE

Becky Hargrove

Manager, Kerry Convention Bureau

With over 15 years global MICE experience, Becky is an award winning, innovative and creative business events and destination marketing strategist, specialising in business development, sustainable events management, communications, product and programme development. VIEW MORE

Kelly Maguire

Lecturer in Tourism and Events Management, Technological University of the Shannon: Athlone Campus

Dr Kelly Maguire is a Lecturer in Tourism and Events Management at the Technological University of the Shannon: Athlone Campus. VIEW MORE

Evelyn O'Sullivan

Manager, Cork Convention Bureau

Evelyn has played a lead role in establishing Cork as an international business tourism destination for the last 15 years in her role as manager of Cork Convention Bureau. VIEW MORE

Maria Roddy Freyne

Lecturer, Dundalk Institute of Technology

Maria is an experienced Hospitality Professional, Passionate Educator with 33 years’ industry and academic experience. Specializes in Revenue Management, Conference and Events, Strategic Management and Industry IT Systems. Academic achievements include MSc and MA. Current PhD researcher. VIEW MORE