CEO of the Year – Large Business

This award recognises an exceptional chief executive leading a large organisation who has demonstrated outstanding strategic leadership, organisational stewardship, and measurable enterprise impact.  

 Judges will look for CEOs who have delivered strong commercial performance while navigating complex market environments and building resilient, high-performing organisations. The award recognises leaders whose decisions have strengthened their company’s long-term competitiveness and whose influence extends beyond their own organisation to the wider business ecosystem. 

Criteria:

Question 1 – Executive Track Record & Enterprise Impact 

(350 words – 25 points) 

Provide a concise executive overview outlining the nominee’s career at senior leadership level. 

Include: 

  • Senior leadership roles held
    • Scope of responsibility (employees, revenue, markets where appropriate)
    • Strategic mandates or enterprise leadership responsibilities
    • Key organisational outcomes delivered during their leadership career 

Judges will evaluate the nominee’s leadership scale, strategic accountability, and enterprise impact. 

Question 2 – Leadership Judgement, Governance & People Impact 

(250 words – 25 points) 

Provide evidence of the nominee’s leadership philosophy and approach. 

Examples may include: 

  • Leading through economic or organisational complexity
    • Governance, ethics, and responsible leadership
    • Development of executive teams and leadership culture
    • Talent development or succession planning 

Judges will assess how leadership decisions influenced people, performance, and organisational culture. 

 Question 3 – Strategic Execution & Enterprise Performance 

(250 words – 25 points) 

Detail the nominee’s key achievements over the past 12–18 months. 

Examples may include: 

  • Major strategic initiatives implemented
    • Organisational transformation or restructuring
    • Market expansion or competitive positioning
    • Measurable financial or operational outcomes 

Judges will assess the nominee’s role in delivering enterprise performance and long-term organisational value. 

Question 4 – Distinction & Broader Leadership Contribution 

(250 words – 25 points) 

Outline why the nominee represents exceptional leadership relative to peers 

Examples may include: 

  • Industry leadership or thought leadership
    • Contribution to Ireland’s economic or innovation ecosystem
    • Mentoring or advisory roles
    • Influence beyond their organisation 

Judges are seeking leaders whose impact extends beyond individual organisational success. 

 Evidence Requirement 

Submissions should include at least three pieces of supporting evidence where possible, such as: 

  • Financial performance indicators
    • Market growth or expansion metrics
    • Operational improvements
    • Policy or societal outcomes
    • Independent recognition or awards 

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