Celebrating Kerry’s Business Leaders at the Annual Gala in Tralee
The Rose Hotel, Tralee set the stage on Thursday, 11th September, as over 180 members of Kerry’s business community gathered for the annual Business Leaders Gala Dinner. Hosted by the Kerry Innovation Centre (KIC), in partnership with Kerry County Council and EY, the event has become a highlight of the county’s business calendar – a night to recognise leadership, vision, and innovation across Kerry’s business landscape.
Honouring Outstanding Leaders
This prestigious evening once again brought together many of the county’s most accomplished business leaders to honour their success and contribution to regional development.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Business Leader of the Year Award, which recognises an individual who has built a globally successful business from Kerry while fostering sustainable economic growth through job creation and revenue generation.
- Business Leader of the Year went to Patrick O’Donoghue of the Gleneagle Group, recognising his success in building a globally respected business from Kerry while creating jobs and driving sustainable growth.
- Emerging Business Leader of the Year was awarded to Emily Brick, founder of Athena Analytics. In just a few years, Emily has transformed her company into one of Ireland’s leading education technology enterprises, supporting more than 400 secondary schools nationwide with innovative tools that help students thrive.
- Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr Oliver Murphy, retired President of IT Tralee. His decades of leadership in higher education were pivotal in shaping the region’s academic landscape and paving the way for the creation of Munster Technological University.
Business Leader Award Winners 2025
Photo: Pauline Dennigan
Business Leader of the Year - Patrick O'Donoghue
Photo: Pauline Dennigan
Emerging Business Leader Award - Emily Brick
Photo: Pauline Dennigan
An Evening of Inspiration
Guests enjoyed an after-dinner address from renowned broadcaster Michael Lyster, who captivated the room with his trademark storytelling, reflections on leadership, and the importance of resilience.
Speaking on the night, Bríd McElligott, Chair of the Kerry Innovation Centre, paid tribute to each of the award winners, their families, colleagues and supporters.
“We proudly recognise each of tonight’s award recipients, whose dedication, innovation, and leadership have not only advanced their industries but also made a lasting impact on our county. Their contributions are a testament to the power of hard work, vision, and community spirit.”
Reflecting on the awards, EY Cork Office Managing Partner and Kerry native Ronan Murray, commented,
"The Business Leader of the Year Awards are a great opportunity to take a moment to recognise and celebrate the many fantastic business leaders right across Kerry. Supporting local entrepreneurs and innovators is key to the sustainable growth for our community and our economy and these awards highlight the vibrancy of Kerry's enterprise ecosystem.”
Fearghal Reidy, Chief Executive of Kerry County Council, said,
“Congratulations to all the business leaders honoured this evening. The businesses represented showcase the collective strength and cross-sector success of enterprises across the county of Kerry. I wish to thank everyone involved in the organisation of this event.”
Looking Ahead
The Business Leaders Gala Dinner is more than just an awards night – it’s a celebration of the vision, resilience, and community spirit that keep Kerry’s economy strong. The 2025 event shone a spotlight on the people whose ideas and leadership continue to put Kerry on the map, both nationally and internationally.
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