Whistleblowers, the limits of the Law & the Power of Partnerships.

Thursday 27th February 2025, 5.30pm-7.00pm

Book Launch & Fireside Chat with Prof. Kate Kenny & Senator Tom Clonan at University of Galway. Professor Kate Kenny’s new book ‘Regulators of Last Resort: Whistleblowers, the Limits of the Law and the Power of Partnerships’ will be launched, followed by a fireside chat and Q&A.
Hosted by: Dr. Orla Lenihan.

Our students come 1st Place out of 600 students in the Irish Tax Institute’s Fantasy Budget Competition

University of Galway’s J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics has proudly claimed 1st place in the Irish Tax Institute’s Fantasy Budget Competition 2025! Out of 600+ competitors, the team—James Carroll, Mark Dempsey, and Micheál Martin Walsh—impressed with their sharp analysis and innovative ideas. Their submission, supervised by Dr. Maria O'Brien, included proposals like extending the Help to Buy Scheme and introducing a property tax to curb speculative housing investments. This achievement reflects the students' hard work and the invaluable support from the tax team, led by Professor Emer Mulligan. Well done to all!

MBA Student Darach O Tuairisg Nominated for IFTA for Groundbreaking Film ‘Crá’

We are thrilled to celebrate Darach O Tuairisg, a first-year MBA student at University of Galway, who has been nominated for an IFTA (Irish Film & Television Academy Award) for his exceptional work on the film Crá. This groundbreaking film has made history as the first Irish language drama to air on mainland BBC. This achievement highlights the creativity and dedication of Darach and the entire team behind Crá, furthering Irish language representation in the media. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Darach and the team, and wish them the best of luck in the upcoming awards.

Celebrating Chinese New Year at J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics

We celebrated Chinese New Year at J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, University of Galway, with an unforgettable event filled with music, dance, delicious Chinese curry, and the highlight of the celebration—our human dragon! A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and to those who organized the event, making it truly special. We wish everyone a prosperous and joyous year ahead!

Students Awarded PwC Medal and Prize for Academic Excellence

We are proud to announce that Anna Kerdzaia, Alison O’Reilly, Gráinne O’Malley, Connor Sweeney, and Mark Dempsey have been awarded the PwC Medal and Prize for the 2023-2024 academic year, recognizing them as the top-performing students in their Accounting courses. This prestigious award highlights their dedication to academic excellence and passion for accounting. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to PwC for their ongoing support as a strategic partner, particularly through their collaboration with the University’s Bachelor of Commerce Skills Pathway, which fosters innovation and entrepreneurial talent. Congratulations to these exceptional students!

University of Galway announce Business Summit 2025

J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics in collaboration with Galway Chamber host their flagship event, as part of the Thinking Beyond series, which will focus on leadership, cybersecurity, and AI in the future of work. Taking place on Friday, 4th April 2025, from 08:30 to 13:30 at Bailey Allen Hall, the summit will feature national and international business leaders alongside University of Galway professors discussing future challenges and opportunities.

MSc Sustainability Leadership Online Information Evening - 12th February, 2025

Join us for an exclusive online information evening about the MSc Sustainability Leadership programme at University of Galway, ranked Ireland's #1 university for sustainable development. On Wednesday, 12th February 2025, at 6pm, discover how this flexible online master's equips future leaders to address urgent global challenges such as climate change and social inequality. Hear from expert guest speakers, including Dr. Johanna Clancy, Dr. Sheila Malone, Dr. Dmitry Brychkov, Marie Laffey, and two current students, who will share insights on the programme and its real-world impact. Don’t miss out—register today to take the first step toward a career in sustainability leadership.

Professor Eoin Whelan Discusses Social Media’s Impact on Teenagers' Mental Health on RTÉ Radio 1

Professor Eoin Whelan, Lecturer in Business Analytics & Society at J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, joined a discussion on RTÉ Radio 1 about the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health. Alongside Professor Matthew Sadlier, Chair of the IMO Consultant Committee and consultant psychiatrist, Professor Whelan explored the topic in light of a recent opinion piece published in The Irish Times. The conversation delves into the complex relationship between technology, society, and mental well-being. Catch the full discussion via the link below.

Accelerate Your Leadership Potential with Our MBA Programme - Join us for our Virtual Information Evening - January 30th

Are you ready to elevate your career? Join us for a virtual information evening to learn how our Association of MBAs accredited MBA program can accelerate your leadership potential. This dynamic and flexible programme is designed to equip you with the skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced business world. Take the first step towards your future success by registering now.

Dr. Yixin Qiu Receives Best Reviewer Award at SMS Annual Conference

Dr. Yixin Qiu from the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics has been honoured with the Best Reviewer Award for the Global Strategy Interest Group at The Strategic Management Society's 44th Annual Conference. This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Qiu’s dedication to advancing research in global strategy and her ongoing contributions to the field of strategic management. The award is a testament to her significant impact as a scholar, educator, and mentor.

Dr Noel Carroll Recognised with Two New Research Awards

Dr. Noel Carroll, Associate Professor at the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, recently earned two prestigious international research awards. At the International Conference on Information Systems in Bangkok, he received the AIS Outreach Practice Publication Award for his work on low-code/no-code platforms, aiding digital transformation and AI initiatives. His publication, How Shell Fueled Digital Transformation by Establishing DIY Software Development, was recognized for effectively transferring research to practitioners. Additionally, Dr. Carroll's co-authored paper, From Transformation to Normalisation: An Exploratory Study of a Large-Scale Agile Transformation, was named Runner-Up for the Journal of Information Technology Best Paper Prize 2023.

Dr Anastasia Griva Honoured with AIS Women’s Network
Outstanding Educator Award

Dr. Anastasia Griva, Assistant Professor and Programme Director of the MSc in Business Analytics at J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, was recently awarded the AIS Women’s Network Outstanding Educator Award. Presented at the ICIS 2024 in Bangkok, this prestigious honour recognises her exceptional contributions to shaping the future of Information Systems education.

University of Galway hosted an inspiring event celebrating the McGinty ScholarshipsDr. Yixin Qiu Receives Best Reviewer Award at SMS Annual Conference

The evening featured key figures including Dr. McGinty founder of the scholarship, Professor Alma McCarthy (Dean of J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics), Professor Kate Kenny, and other leaders who have helped shape the initiative. It also highlighted the achievements of talented McGinty Scholars and Alumni, including Odharna Ní Dhomhnalláin, Deirbhle Joyce, Elaine Loughlin, Sinead Walsh, Eva Flynn, and Shona Burke, who are making significant strides in healthcare. We are proud to support these leaders in shaping the future of healthcare.

Interview RTE Radio 1: Professor John McHale: Concerning Spending Promises in Politics

“We [are seeing] this spiral of competitive bidding for votes.”

On RTÉ Radio 1’s Morning Ireland yesterday, Prof John McHale (J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics) discussed the need for structured costing to discipline parties and allow voters to make more informed decisions.

Kate Kenny’s Groundbreaking Research on Sexual Assault and Whistleblowing in The Conversation UK

Professor Kate Kenny’s latest research in The Conversation UK uncovers the disturbing tactics used by former Harrods CEO Mohamed Al Fayed to silence whistleblowers on sexual assault, harassment, and misconduct. Drawing on over 15 years of research, Kate identifies four key strategies—organisational control, surveillance, legal intimidation, and dehumanisation—that allowed Al Fayed to evade accountability. Her powerful insights shed light on the systemic barriers that prevent victims from speaking out and call for greater protection for whistleblowers in all organisations.

Thinking Beyond Event: Leading Change in the Public Sector: Using Crisis to Deliver Future Reform

As part of its Thinking Beyond series, the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at the University of Galway hosted an event exploring public sector change leadership. Featuring a distinguished panel with extensive public sector experience, the discussion focused on how crises can drive reform. Insights were shared on lessons from past financial and health crises, as well as the ongoing transformation within the Defence Forces, to inform current and future public sector reform.

Professor Karyn Morrissey in the Irish Examiner - Irish children face shorter life expectancy and malnutrition caused by climate change.

A major global health report, the Lancet Countdown Report 2024, warns that children born in Ireland today will face malnutrition, shorter life expectancy, and a range of health risks due to climate change. Professor Karyn Morrissey, the only Irish researcher involved, highlighted concerns about food security, crop loss from extreme weather, rising heat-related deaths among older people, and the spread of infectious diseases. Read more on the urgent challenges ahead.

Thinking Beyond Event: Getting on Board with Sustainability - A Board Member Perspective.

As part of the Thinking Beyond event series, the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics hosted an online panel discussion on sustainability and its integration at the board-director level. The discussion addressed the growing investor and stakeholder demand for sustainable practices, as well as the increasing regulations on sustainability disclosure. The panel highlighted that sustainability is no longer a mere consideration, but a critical agenda item for boards. Despite this, many board directors expressed feeling ill-equipped to oversee the adoption of sustainable business practices.

J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics Contributes to Groundbreaking Report on Digital Readiness

The J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics played a key role in the development of the research report "Exploring Technology Readiness of Irish Small Businesses," launched in Castlebar. Co-authored by Professor Anuragini Shirish and John O'Shanahan of LeanBPI, with contributions from Dr Noel Carroll, the report highlights that over 25% of small businesses in Ireland report low levels of digital readiness, with microenterprises facing even greater challenges. The findings, based on the Technology Readiness Index, emphasise the need for targeted digital support to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs, a call supported by Minister Dara Calleary TD and Local Enterprise Offices.

Dr Anastasia Griva Awarded President’s Early Career Researcher Award

The J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics congratulates Dr Anastasia Griva on receiving the President’s Early Career Researcher Award at the October All Staff meeting. This prestigious accolade recognises her exceptional research contributions and impact, particularly in the areas of Responsible AI, Generative AI, and Explainable AI.

International Visit from Prof Jonathan Doh, Villanova Business School

On Tuesday, 15 October 2024, the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics welcomed Professor Jonathan Doh from Villanova University as part of our ongoing partnership with the institution. Professor Doh delivered a talk on “Advancing Societal Impact in International Business and Management Research – and Publishing in Top Journals” from 3.30–4.30pm in the Deloitte Zone, Biz Hub @ Áras Cairnes. Prior to the talk, he also led a workshop from 11.00am–12.30pm, which was available both in person and online.

Seminar Recap: How Marketing CEOs Shape Strategy

The Marketing Seminar Series took place on Wednesday, 16 October 2024, at 12pm in the Whitaker Seminar Suite, Cairnes Building, with no registration required. As part of this year’s series, Dr. Shekhar Misra, Assistant Professor and Lecturer in Marketing at the University of Galway, delivered a talk on "When Marketer Gets the Top Job: How Marketing CEOs Influence Firms' Product Market Strategy." During the seminar, Dr. Misra explored how CEOs with marketing backgrounds shape the strategic direction of firms, particularly concerning their product market strategies.

Economics Seminar: Dr Darragh Flannery – "Does Homework Improve Student Achievement?"

Dr Darragh Flannery, Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Limerick, delivered a seminar on October 17th 2024 on the impact of homework on student achievement across developed and developing countries. As part of this year's economics seminar series, his talk explored key findings from his research, which applies micro-econometric methods to education and health economics. Dr Flannery’s work has been published in top journals such as Economics of Education Review, Oxford Economic Papers, and Applied Health Economics and Health Policy.

International Event: Game Changers

On 14 October 2024, the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics and the School of Law hosted a packed event on the business and legal aspects of the digital games industry. Renowned guest speakers from the gaming world shared insights on key topics, including regulation, incentivisation, and game preservation. The day featured talks, roundtables, and networking opportunities, with a focus on both local and global industry trends. Attendees also enjoyed interactive sessions with playable games, making for a dynamic and engaging experience.

Annual Workshop: The Centre for Economic Research on Inclusivity and Sustainability (CERIS)

The Centre for Economic Research on Inclusivity and Sustainability (CERIS) held its second Annual Workshop on 10–11 October 2024 at the Deloitte Zone, Biz Hub @ Áras Cairnes (CA239a). The event featured speakers from universities across Ireland, including UCD, Maynooth, UL, Queens, and UCC, discussing topics such as Environmental Economics, Spatial Economics, Health Economics, Human Capital, and Development Economics. The keynote speaker, Prof. Helmut Rainer, a Professor of Economics at the University of Munich, also contributed to the workshop. The event was open to all, with a great turnout.

Exploring Audiovisual Cultural Policy in Ireland: Dr. Maria O'Brien Leads Discussion on IJAMCP Special Issue

Dr. Maria O'Brien, Lecturer in Taxation at the University of Galway (J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics/School of Law), led an engaging online session on the recently published open-access special issue of the Irish Journal of Arts Management & Cultural Policy (IJAMCP). The special issue focused on Audiovisual Cultural Policy in Ireland, and Dr. O'Brien, alongside fellow speakers, provided valuable insights into its contents and implications.

University of Galway - collaborates with Dublin City University in New Book Exploring Greener Uses of Digital Tech.

Pictured celebrated the launch of 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 (Springer Link), an open-access book examining the long-term sustainable use of digital technologies.

Edited by Professor Theo Lynn (DCU), Dr Pierangelo Rosati, Dr David Kreps and Professor Kieran Conboy ( University of Galway), the book brings together insights from international experts on topics such as smart cities, smart agriculture, energy management and the circular economy. Insights are shared by researchers from institutions across Europe, the US and the UK.

Promoting Sustainable Business: J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics Host Joint Research Seminar Series with Cork and UL

The J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics hosted a joint research seminar series with Cork University Business School (UCC) and the Kemmy Business School (UL) on the 9th of October 2024. In the first seminar, Professor Valeria Andreoni (AIB Professor in Sustainable Business, UCC) spoke on the adoption of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in business and policy.

Welcoming New Talent to J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics

September, was the month we had the pleasure of welcoming new colleagues to the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics during our staff induction event. It was an excellent opportunity to introduce them to our dynamic and supportive community, where they will contribute to our shared vision of academic excellence and innovation. We are excited to see the positive impact they will bring to our School and look forward to working together to advance our mission.

Welcome: MBA Class of 2024 and Welcome Back to the Class of 2025!

We were thrilled to welcome our new cohort of 34 talented individuals to the J.E. Cairnes School of Business MBA Programme, representing diverse industries and experiences that reflect the global and interdisciplinary nature of our MBA. At the same time, we welcomed back the Class of 2025 as they entered their second year, eager to see their leadership skills continue to evolve as they tackled real-world business challenges and advanced toward their career goals. Balancing work, life, and study is no easy task, but their resilience and dedication inspired us, and we are confident the year ahead brought new growth, collaboration, and success.

Our faculty are featured in the prestigious AMBA Ambition: Shaping the Future of MBA Education

Our MBA programme is evolving to meet the changing expectations of students, with a strong focus on ethical and responsible management. In the latest AMBA Ambition publication, Dr. Johanna Clancy from J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, along with insights from Prof. Kate Kenny and Prof. Alma McCarthy, discusses how our experiential learning module integrates these key principles. This feature showcases our commitment to developing future leaders with a solid ethical foundation.

Workplace Wellbeing: Insights from Dr. Ann M. Torres on Effective Negotiation for Career Success in the Irish Examiner

We are proud to highlight Dr. Ann M. Torres, Associate Professor of Marketing at the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, for sharing her expertise in the Irish Examiner. In her recent article, Dr. Torres offers practical advice on mastering workplace negotiations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the interests of both parties and thorough preparation prior to discussions. To enhance your negotiation skills and advance your career.

Launching Initiatives: J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics Partners with Deloitte to Empower Future Leaders

As the new academic year begins, we are excited to launch our five-year strategic partnership with Deloitte, designed to empower students at the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics to become future leaders. This collaboration includes tailored mentorship and travel bursaries for Global Scholars studying abroad, a Deloitte scholarship to celebrate academic excellence, and a bespoke business challenge and internship program. Additionally,

Deloitte has funded a dedicated collaboration hub within the BizHub to foster creativity and teamwork. Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean of the School, emphasized that this partnership aligns with our mission to provide transformative learning experiences and supports that distinguish our students in the global marketplace.

Conferring: Celebrating CBPPL Graduates

The University welcomed back 1,800+ graduates this August for Autumn Conferring; among them, CBPPL students and athletes Tomó Culhane (Galway GAA) & Therese Kinnevey (Galway United). 16 Honorary Degrees Awardees have also been recognised during the ceremonies.

Dr Pierangelo Rosati RTÉ News

RTENews.ie launched Ireland’s Digital Readiness Monitor last week, developed in partnership with Dr Pierangelo Rosati (J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics) and DCU. The project has revealed that 36% of websites in Ireland have a low or very low level of sophistication.

Michael Lang Plays at GAA World Wallball Championships

Congratulations to Michael Lang, Associate Professor in Business Information Systems at J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, for his involvement as a player and match official at the GAA World Handball Wallball Championships last week.

J.E. Cairnes School Welcomes: Italian Students for Educational Exchange

This month, J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics had the honor of hosting students from ITET de Viti de Marco in Triggiano, Italy. During their visit, we showcased our institution and provided valuable insights into our diverse undergraduate programs. We extend our best wishes to the students for their continued success in their academic endeavors.

Chicago Gathering: Celebrating Heritage and Connections -The Galway Alumni & Friends Gathering in Chicago

The Galway Alumni & Friends Gathering in Chicago was a resounding success, bringing together over 130 attendees to celebrate our shared heritage. Hosted in collaboration with Chicago Sister Cities International and part of the Galway City Council's US trade delegation, the event featured Galway’s Mayor Peter Keane, who opened the proceedings.

Alumni panellists, including Seamus Kavanagh, Clodagh Lawless, Timothy Liam Epstein, Eileen Sweeney MBA, and John Cullinane, shared insights on strengthening economic and cultural ties between Chicago and Galway, under the chairmanship of Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics. A heartfelt thanks to all who helped organize this memorable occasion; your support was invaluable. We look forward to continuing these connections and hope to see everyone at our next event!

MBA Scholarship Namesake: Interviewed by IMAGE Magazine

IMAGE magazine interviews Geraldine McGinty, the esteemed namesake of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics MBA Scholarship, a leading radiologist in New York and the first woman chair and the 97th President of the American College of Radiology (ACR).

QS World University Rankings: Top 100

For the second year in a row, the University has been placed in the top 100 universities in Europe with the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2025 assessing almost 700 institutions in more than 40 locations.

CBPPL Welcomes Dutch Ambassador

CBPPL welcomed Maaike van Koldam – Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Ireland – to campus on 27 June. The ambassador was greeted by Vice President International, Prof Becky Whay, before meeting with SEMRU and The Irish Centre for Human Rights.

Dr Anastasia Griva Awarded for Research Excellence

Dr Anastasia Griva, Assistant Professor of Business Information Systems at J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, has been selected to receive the prestigious President’s Award for Research Excellence (Early-Career Researcher).

Start100: BComm Student Wins 'One-To-Watch'💬

Final year Bachelor of Commerce student David Garvey won the 'One to Watch' award, at the Start100 student entrepreneur competition, run by University of Galway's innovation hub, IdeasLab.

MBAAI Western Chapter
Networking Event

J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics hosted a successful networking event for MBA graduates, organised by the MBA Association of Ireland (MBAAI) Western Chapter. It was a resounding success, featuring speed networking sessions and insights from inspiringly successful guest speakers

Taste of India: The Great Indian Food Festival

Brought to you by India Society in collaboration with ICSC Galway, Saturday, July 13th saw the Great Indian Food Festival, at our University of Galway campus. A glorious celebration of authentic Indian cuisine. Festival goers enjoyed an open mic session, tasty food and live music and dance from talented students.

Anthony Chen’s Masterclass: EAFFI Collaborates with Galway Film Fleadh

Lecturer in Taxation, Dr Maria O'Brien is a co-founder and co-organiser of the East Asia Film Festival Ireland (EAFFI). Galway Film Fleadh has announced that award-winning writer Anthony Chen will deliver this year’s Director Masterclass, presented in collaboration with EAFFI and supported by Screen Ireland.

Accounting Graduate achieves 1st place in Ireland in chartered tax adviser exams

Jack Costello, a recent Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) graduate from University of Galway, has been placed 1st in Ireland in his Part 2 Irish Tax Institute exams. Congratulations Jack!

Gaelic professionals plan for life after playing through GPA scholarships

University of Galway has announced the renewal of a special partnership with the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) to provide two full MBA Scholarships to prospective students. 

Venice School of Management becomes the School’s 100th Study Abroad partner

The Bachelor of Commerce Study Abroad partnerships now span 22 global destinations, including Europe, the US, Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea.

Regional Business Summit 2024: Responsible Business, at Scale

A reflection on University of Galway's Regional Business Summit, in partnership with itag, Galway Chamber, and Data 2 Sustain, where 300+ leaders and policymakers convened to discuss the pressing challenges confronting businesses in Western Ireland.

Global Connections, Local Engagement: Galway to Miami and Back Again

Cois Coiribe explores the strategic partnership formed between J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, and the FIU College of Business, Miami.

New study confirms seeing yourself on Zoom and Teams causes fatigue

New research from University of Galway, led by Prof Eoin Whelan and Dr. Ann O’Brien of J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics.

University of Galway and Deloitte Ireland announce new strategic partnership

University of Galway and Deloitte Ireland have today unveiled a new five-year strategic partnership, which sees Deloitte commit €550,000 to create opportunities for students to benefit from the company’s professional expertise, leadership and future career opportunities.

J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics hosts the Japanese Ambassador to Ireland, Mr. Norio Maruyama.

During his visit, Mr Maruyama engaged with students and faculty members, sharing insights into Japanese-Irish relations.

J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics alumnus receives the Janssen Bursary Medal for 2023,

MSc Health Economics graduate, Orla Jenkins, was the recipient of the Janssen Bursary Medal for 2023, which was awarded in recognition of academic excellence in Health Economics.