TLI CEO THOMAS FITZMAURICE HONOURED WITH THE BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
OVER 200 guests attended the Business Leaders’ Gala Dinner on Thursday evening at the Rose Hotel in Tralee to recognise the achievements of Kerry business leaders.
Presented by Kerry Innovation Centre in partnership with Kerry County Council and EY Ireland, this annual event celebrates ambitious businesses and entrepreneurs from across the county.
Three awards were presented on the night to:
• Thomas Fitzmaurice, CEO TLI – Business Leader of the Year 2024
• Shane Hassett and Mariana Kobal, Co Founders WAZP – Emerging Business Leaders 2024 • Denis Brosnan, Founder and Former CEO of Kerry Group - Lifetime Contribution Award 2024
Following a five course meal, guests enjoyed an engaging and informative after dinner speech from Dr Karen Weekes, Performance Psychologist and the first Irish female to row the Atlantic Ocean solo and unsupported in 2022.
Commenting on the selection of the award recipients, Brid McElligott, Chair of Kerry Innovation Centre said “we are delighted to present these awards in recognition of the entrepreneurial drive, determination and ability demonstrated by each recipient. Their personal stories serve as an inspiration for current and future business leaders and it is our privilege to be able to organise an event which honours these leading Kerry business entrepreneurs.”
Ronan Murray, EY Strategy and Transactions Partner commented, “Tonight we are delighted to be one of the sponsors of the Business Leaders’ Gala Dinner in Kerry. We congratulate each of these leaders who continue to drive their businesses forward through constant innovation and global ambition.”
CE of Kerry County Council Moira Murrell congratulated the winners, saying:
“It is our honour to thank each of the winners in person for their role in creating significant employment and opportunities for the people of Kerry. Each has demonstrated incredible entrepreneurial drive, determination, and ability, as they led the growth of a global business from Kerry.”
At the event each award recipient was presented with a painting by Kerry based artist Jane Hilliard with each commission depicting a story unique to the business leaders.