CEO of the Year – Small Business & Startups

This award recognises an exceptional founder or chief executive who has demonstrated entrepreneurial leadership in building and scaling a high-potential business.  

Judges will look for leaders who combine strategic vision with resilience, innovation, and strong organisational leadership. The award recognises entrepreneurs whose leadership has driven meaningful business momentum and positioned their organisations for future growth and impact. 

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 & Organisational Growth 

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

Examples may include: 

  • Product innovation or market disruption
    • Customer growth or user adoption
    • Investment secured or funding milestones
    • Expansion into new markets 

Judges will assess leadership in building a high-potential business. 

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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