Judging Panel

An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, drawn from academia, business and broader related sectors will determine the winners of the Irish Construction Industry 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 construction 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.

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

Daniel Clarke Hagan (Judging Coordinator)

Programme Chair / Lecturer, Atlantic Technical University

Experienced Practitioner, Lecturer and Researcher in Construction Project Management. Prior to entering academia, I spent many years in the Construction Industry. VIEW MORE

Barry McAuley (Judging Coordinator)

Head of Geospatial Surveying and Digital Construction, Technological University Dublin

Dr. Barry McAuley is a Chartered Construction Project Manager and Head of Digital Construction and Geospatial Surveying at the Technological University Dublin’s School of Surveying and Construction Innovation. VIEW MORE

Helen Duffy

Director, Sweco Ireland Limited

Helen Duffy FRIAI ARB is a registered Architect, Assigned Certifier and Director of Sweco Ireland Limited with responsibility for leading the management function and delivering on the strategic objectives of the business. VIEW MORE

Ruairi Hayden

Head of Construction Management, TU Dublin

Ruairi Hayden is the Head of Construction Management at TU Dublin, an experienced industry professional dedicated to shaping skilled graduates for the construction sector and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building. VIEW MORE

Derry Kearney

Partner, Cundall

Derry is a Partner at Cundall and Managing Director for Ireland where he is responsible for the successful leadership and management of the Irish business. He sits on the UK&I Regional Management Board for Cundall which has an oversight of nine offices and 500+ staff. VIEW MORE

Joseph Mady

CEO, DCT

Joseph Mady is the Chief Executive at DCT, responsible for the strategic leadership of the business across the UK, Ireland, South America, and Europe. Industry work aside he is also a part-time lecturer at Technological University Dublin. VIEW MORE

Aidan McGovern

Chartered Engineer, OPW

Aidan is currently serving as a senior Engineer and Project Manager on Capital Projects within OPW. He has extensive experience in all types of construction projects and construction procurement. VIEW MORE

Henry McKinney

Managing Director, Newtownstewart McKinney

Henry has over 30 years in the construction industry, including 22 years as a Director, with experience spanning the UK, Ireland, and Canada. A Member of the Chartered Institute of Builders and IOSH, he is committed to driving quality, safety, and sustainability in building and civil engineering. VIEW MORE

James McNamara

Lecturer, TUS Midlands/Mid-West.

James McNamara is a Chartered Quantity Surveyor who lectures in the Technological University of the Shannon (Athlone Campus). He is involved in planning, developing and delivering courses. He has represented the SCSI in accreditation of courses in other higher education facilities. VIEW MORE

Brian O' Neill

Company Director, MCORM Architects

Brian O’Neill is a Graduate of the Dublin School of Architecture, DIT Bolton Street, a Fellow of the RIAI and a Director of MCORM Architects. Brian has completed large residential and commercial projects in Dublin for International and Local Developers. VIEW MORE

John Spillane

Associate Professor, University of Limerick

Dr John P. Spillane is an Associate Professor in Construction Management within the School of Engineering, at University of Limerick. Dr Spillane has over 140 peer-reviewed publications and more than €5million in research funding, predominately focusing on industry engaged knowledge transfer. VIEW MORE