2022 Sustainable Business Impact Awards Judges

Our Judges

NINA ARWITZ, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, VOLUNTEER IRELAND

Every year I am struck by the rising quality of entries to the Sustainable Business Impact Awards - in particular around the way impact is measured, understood and communicated. The potential for companies to make real positive changes in our communities is huge, and the winners of these Awards shine a light on what is possible.

JOHN CUNNINGHAM, RELATIONSHIP DIRECTOR, MORGAN MCKINLEY GROUP

We are delighted with the increase in applications from SMEs - there is so much good work being carried out. I encourage all SMEs to consider applying next year. What these organisations do makes a real difference and I’m delighted to see us using the Sustainable Development Goals as the benchmark - this country is providing a sophisticated approach to a global issue - Business in Ireland can stand tall and proud!

LORRAINE CORCORAN, DIRECTOR, AFANITE LIMITED

While ESG is increasingly topical there are many businesses for whom sustainability has been a central part of their existence since well before it was in the public eye. The 2022 Sustainable Business Impact Awards demonstrate this in abundance. They showcase the substance behind sustainability initiatives and how continuous progress is vital for all.

SABINA COTTER, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR DCU EDUCATIONAL TRUST

It was so interesting to review the SME applications from across Ireland, some of which have from start-up considered environmental, social and governance (ESG) as the foundation of how they operate in regard to the planet and its people. Once again there were very strong applications in the Community Programme categories showing multiple years of support and partnership. I look forward to seeing the growth in the number of applicants in the recently introduced Social Enterprise Category.

DEBORAH DIGNAM, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, RETAIL AND LOCALLY TRADED ENTERPRISE UNIT, DEPARTMENT OF ENTERPRISE, TRADE AND EMPLOYMENT

The Sustainable Business Impact Awards demonstrate the appetite that businesses all over Ireland have to effect real change. I want to congratulate all of the entrants for their efforts - by stepping up to the challenge you are already trying to make a difference and hopefully encouraging other businesses to do the same.

MARY FLEMING, NATIONAL EXECUTIVE, COMMUNITY RESOURCES NETWORK IRELAND

I daren’t use the dreaded word ‘unprecedented’, but we’re living in a time where there is no option but to change our ways and that’s why I was really heartened to see such valuable and genuine sustainability initiatives being carried by so many different types of businesses across Ireland. The fact that you’re taking action for a better, more stable future for all means you’re already a winner.

DEIRDRE GARVEY, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, THE WHEEL

The emerging focus of the awards on sustainability provides a badly needed opportunity as well as incentive to showcase the base of what community and business can do in partnership. The results showcased here will help create a pathway to inspire others.

MOIRA GRASSICK, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, PENINSULA BUSINESS SERVICES IRELAND

It’s incredibly encouraging to see the sustainability efforts of the businesses shortlisted for this year’s Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards. Climate action is an increasingly important issue and seeing the effort these businesses are making internally and throughout their communities signifies the importance of this issue.

ALASDAIR HENDERSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BAM IRELAND

I would like to congratulate all candidates. The high calibre of initiatives made judging a difficult but very gratifying process. The commitment shown by businesses large and small across the country to work collaboratively to find innovative and sustainable ways to positively impact people and planet is truly inspiring.

SHEILA KILLIAN, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, KEMMY BUSINESS SCHOOL, UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK

It’s always encouraging to see the quality of entries in the Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards, particularly when they address pressing issues of social sustainability. With new crises emerging in 2022 including a sharper focus on the social as well as environmental impact of climate change, and the war in Ukraine, this trend should be even more impactful and necessary in the future.

Our Judges

SIOBHAN HAMILTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GREEN WORKPLACES

It’s great to see so many organisations taking action and implementing policies in sustainable development and social responsibility. This year’s finalists demonstrated commitment and leadership in sustainable practices and ensuring they are embedded in the company culture. They are exemplars in supporting the UN’s sustainable development goals.

MARTIN TOBIN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, EUROPEAN RECYCLING PLATFORM IRELAND

The circular economy is a crucial building block for creating a healthier future. It is inspiring to see the breadth and diversity of programmes by companies from across the country mapping their sustainable initiatives both inside and outside of their workplace operations. The incredibly high standard of entries for the Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards has made this year’s judging very difficult and I commend all those that have been shortlisted.