17th June 2025
A Conference on the Rapid Advancements of AI and Big Data
Following the outstanding success of Big Data Belfast and Big Data NYC, we are delighted to introduce Big Data Dublin — a conference bringing together data leaders, AI innovators, and technology enthusiasts from across Ireland and beyond.
Hosted at Microsoft’s world-class headquarters in South Dublin, Big Data Dublin will feature expert speakers, dynamic panel sessions, interactive demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with key players in data, AI, and technology-driven industries.
Places are complimentary, however subject to availability.

Key themes
AI Innovation and Deployment
Data Ethics, Privacy, and Trust
Building ethical, responsible AI and navigating regulatory challenges.
Machine Learning & Predictive Analytics
Data Infrastructure and Cloud Technologies
AI and Northern Ireland’s Opportunity
Future Skills: Preparing for an AIFirst Workforce
Sponsors
Principal Sponsor

Associate Sponsors




Speakers 2025

Clare Hillis

Partner, Director, Microsoft Ireland
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Clare Hillis is the Partner Sales Director for Microsoft Ireland and is a key member of the Microsoft Ireland Leadership team. She is dedicated to harnessing groundbreaking technologies like AI and cloud computing to unlock the fullest potential of both partners and customers. She is responsible for driving partner engagement, facilitating connections, and fostering strategic partnerships to enhance Microsoft’s partner across the island of Ireland.
Since joining Microsoft in May 2022, Clare held the position of Channel Sales Lead where she was instrumental in helping partners grow their business and in supporting our mutual customers to drive digital transformation across both the public and private sectors. Her unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion has seen her champion numerous initiatives, where our partners are supported and engaged. Clare’s dedication to promoting women in tech has fostered a more inclusive and innovative community.
Before joining Microsoft, Clare held various senior roles across the UK and Ireland within the technology industry for both BT and Vodafone. Most recently she served as Country Manager for Vodafone in NI, where she was responsible for overall business revenue and margin growth. Clare’s tenure at Vodafone was marked by significant contributions to the company’s success, particularly in the Enterprise business across Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Eni Oduntan

Data Scientist, Analytics Engines
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Data Scientist currently working on building Generative AI, Natural Language Processing and Multimodal solutions.
With a strong background in Computational Statistics & Linguistics, Machine Learning and Business Intelligence, some key highlights of my work have been;
• Designing and implementing machine learning pipelines for predictive models.
• Building and deploying LLM-based applications and custom AI solutions.
• Owning delivery of analytical projects and high-quality business intelligence solutions.
• Using data to drive operational excellence and develop sustainable business growth strategies.

David Crozier CBE

CEO, Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre
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He was appointed to the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) College of Experts in 2021, the NI Cyber Security Steering Group in 2018 and was, until recently, Chair of SpecialisterneNI. David was a Fellowship recipient on the U.S. State Department’s All-Ireland Strengthening Cybersecurity International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) in 2018. He was awarded a prestigious Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by King Charles III in the 2024 New Year’s Honours List for services to the UK economy.

Darren Ryan

CEO, Deanta
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As CEO of Deanta, I lead a dynamic team dedicated to reshaping the publishing industry through innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology. With over 20 years in publishing services, I have developed strategic expertise in leveraging AI, XML-first workflows, and global production methodologies to empower publishers in the academic, STM, legal, and professional sectors.
At Deanta, our focus is on providing tailored solutions that simplify workflows, improve efficiency, and enable digital transformation, ensuring clients can meet the demands of modern readers and authors alike. I’m passionate about building lasting partnerships, fostering innovation, and creating systems that deliver measurable outcomes for businesses worldwide.

Rob Grundy

Director of Innovation Partnerships, Catalyst
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Rob Grundy is the Director of Innovation Partnerships at Catalyst, an organisation he has collaborated with and admired for over a decade. His appointment marks both a return to familiar ground and an exciting new chapter in his career. With a deep belief in Catalyst’s mission, he is committed to helping shape Northern Ireland’s economy through innovation, enterprise, and entrepreneurship.
Alongside his role at Catalyst, he continues to contribute to the life sciences sector as a Senior Advisor to Intelligent OMICS Ltd, a company at the forefront of AI-driven biomedical discovery. His work bridges the worlds of science, business, and innovation, with a passion for creating opportunities and meaningful impact.

Kevin McGuinness

Global Head of Client Solutions, Napier AI
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Kevin McGuinness is the Global Head of Client Solutions at Napier AI, bringing over 20 years of experience in financial services.
With a focus on combating anti-money laundering (AML) and financial crime, he leads a global team of experts in technology and regulation.
Kevin’s track record includes senior roles in delivery, transformation, and commercial leadership, notably at First Derivative, where he built and managed a global consulting team. Renowned for his innovative approach, Kevin integrates agile technologies, strategic partnerships, and best-in-class operating models to ensure compliance and drive commercial advantage for institutions worldwide.

Stephen McCabe

Executive Director (Interim) for Momentum One Zero
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Before this, Stephen was Head of Project Delivery, responsible for managing multiple workstreams of activity to ensure the successful delivery of the Momentum One Zero project. His background cuts across the negotiation and set up of complex innovation projects with private sector and government, evidence-based policy development, and hands-on research.

Dr Aislinn Rice

Director, Analytics Engines
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Dr Aislinn Rice has over 25 years’ experience in leadership positions across small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and global organisations in the technology sector. She was appointed to the Board of QUBIS from 2012 to 2018, the commercialisation arm of Queen’s University Belfast (QUB). Aislinn is currently Director of Software NI and Non-Executive Director at Analytics Engines. She holds a PhD in Chemistry from QUB. More recently, Aislinn was awarded with the Digital DNA Special Recognition Award for continued commitment and contribution to the NI Technology ecosystem.

Nigel Cunningham

Lead, Microsoft NI
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Nigel Cunningham is a highly experienced technology and business consultant with a proven track record at leading firms, including Microsoft UK and Ulster University. He brings deep expertise in digital transformation, IT strategy, and innovation governance. Nigel excels in bridging technology with organisational goals, helping businesses implement scalable, future-ready solutions.
With a background in project leadership and a strong academic foundation, Nigel is known for translating complex technology challenges into clear, practical strategies. He is passionate about mentoring teams, shaping digital ecosystems, and driving growth through collaborative partnerships.

Gareth Quinn

MD EMEA, Teamworks
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Having gained 15+ years’ experience of operational management and strategy development before selling his first company Gareth, alongside Ireland and Ulster Rugby International Andrew Trimble, founded Kairos, a sports technology company optimising the performance of elite sports teams by empowering athletes with scheduling, communication and athletic planning tools.

Dr Scott Fischaber

Co-founder of Analytics Engines
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Scott is also a certified data ethics professional from the Open Data Institute, and he applies this knowledge with customers across the public and private sector, focusing not only on areas of data ethics, but also the ethical and responsible usage of AI.

Roisin Finnegan
Senior Tech Executive
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Senior leader in innovation, strategy and community infrastructure development.
Leader and social entrepreneur in community place building; set up several social initiatives and founded and leads significant business association.
Led Deloitte Ventures in Northern Ireland until August 2024, with a focus on climate, fintech and regtech. Fostered business growth through pioneering technology ventures and collaborations. This role leveraged expertise in innovation and tech to successfully engage with disruptive technologies and startups.
Tenure as Regional Ventures Lead at Deloitte, combined with skills in Customer Relationship Management (CRM), which was central to developing robust relationships and steering strategic initiatives.
Fully committed to effecting positive change in community and business ecosystems

Callum Mullan-Young

Data Scientist, Analytics Engines
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As a Data Scientist at Analytics Engines, I specialise in leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and traditional machine learning techniques to drive AI innovations that directly align with strategic business objectives. My expertise spans developing end-to-end AI solutions, from advanced virtual assistants and conversational AI to automated document processing, anomaly detection systems, and evaluation frameworks.
I bring a balanced skill set that combines deep technical acumen in machine learning, statistical modeling and data processing with strategic thinking and project management. My approach is rooted in data science methodologies, rigorous model assessment, and insightful analysis, ensuring that every AI solution delivers impactful, data-driven results.
Beyond technical development, I excel at translating complex AI concepts into clear, actionable insights for both technical and non-technical audiences. Whether I’m leading AI strategy workshops, mentoring teams on best practices in prompt engineering and model evaluation, or engaging with stakeholders to optimize process improvements, my goal is to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI applications and real-world business needs.
I am passionate about pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve and continuously strive to contribute to innovative, scalable solutions that empower organizations to make smarter, faster decisions.

Michael Casement

Account Technology Strategist, Microsoft
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Michael Casement serves as an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where he partners with strategic and high-value customers to create multi-horizon technology roadmaps. With deep insight into both business goals and industry trends, he guides organizations through digital transformations that drive cloud adoption, operational efficiency, and innovation.
A trusted advisor, Michael collaborates across internal teams and ecosystems—engaging with product, engineering, and partner networks—to deliver end-to-end solutions aligned with client objectives. He specializes in anticipating technical blockers, optimizing adoption strategies, and translating complex technology landscapes into actionable, high-impact initiatives.
With a strong record of blending strategic oversight and hands-on execution, Michael ensures each engagement advances Microsoft’s mission and delivers measurable value to customers.

Neil Bowden

Dell Technologies
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Neil Bowden brings extensive expertise from his work in the information technology and services industry, with deep knowledge in Sales, Data Centre, Storage Solutions, SaaS, and Pre-sales. He will provide invaluable insights into how AI is revolutionising industries today.
Experienced Sales Executive with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Skilled in Sales, Data Center, Storage Solutions, Software as a Service (SaaS), and Pre-sales. Strong information technology professional with a Bachelor’s Degree focused in BSc in Management of Information technology and Information systems from Dublin City University.

Mike Webster

Head of Digital Innovation, DCC PLC
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Mike is responsible for helping drive digital and AI innovation across DCC.
DCC operates in 21 countries, supplying products and services used by millions of people every day. Building strong routes to market, driving for results, focusing on cash conversion, and generating superior sustainable returns on capital employed enable the Group to reinvest in its business, creating value for its stakeholders.
As a proven business leader with expertise in business development, digital strategy, and large-scale problem solving, Mike has built successful ventures in AI, Supply Chain Software, Mobility, Fin-Tech, and e-Commerce. His entrepreneurial spirit and mission-driven approach have consistently fuelled success in dynamic, fast-paced industries.
We are excited to have Mike share his insights and expertise at Big Data Belfast.

Lucinda Crieghton

CEO, Vulcan Consulting
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As founder and CEO of Vulcan Consulting I am responsible for day to day operations, client relationship management, growing our business and ensuring that our clients receive a top class service across a range of sectors. I split my time between our offices in Dublin and Brussels and regularly travel for conferences and client meetings in other parts of Europe, as well as the United States.
As founder and CEO of Vulcan Consulting I am responsible for day to day operations, client relationship management, growing our business and ensuring that our clients receive a top class service across a range of sectors. I split my time between our offices in Dublin and Brussels and regularly travel for conferences and client meetings in other parts of Europe, as well as the United States.

Mark Barr

Chief Engineer, First Derivative
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Mark Barr has a work experience spanning several companies and roles. Mark currently works at First Derivative as a Principal Software Engineer, starting in April 2022. Prior to this, they worked at First Derivatives as a Software Engineer from July 2019 to April 2022. Before that, they were a Software Developer at Applied Systems from January 2018 to July 2019. Mark also has experience working at the Northern Ireland Civil Service, where they held the positions of IT Solutions Developer from October 2014 to January 2018 and Civil Servant from March 2004 to October 2014.
Mark Barr completed their Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computing and IT from The Open University in 2016. Mark also obtained additional certifications, including a Bsc (Hons) Computing and IT from The Open University and a Professional Scrum Master I from Scrum.org, both in the same year.

Kieran McCorry

National Technology Officer, Microsoft Ireland
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As head of business development, Byran focuses on the company’s priority growth initiatives, including new markets, segments and client engagement. Previously, Bryan worked at LMAX Group, as director US Institutional Sales, having also worked in senior commercial roles at Nasdaq, Cboe Global Markets, and Old Mission. Bryan is on the board of directors for the SIFMA Foundation.

Paul Hill

Managing Director of DailyPay NI, Ltd & VP Engineering
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At DailyPay, we are building a new financial system, one paycheck at a time. We’ve built a best-in-class, trusted, first-of-its-kind technology platform that dynamically changes how money moves—changing pay, for good.

Theresa Cloonan

Head of Information Systems, Dún Laoghaire & Rathdown County Council
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Theresa Cloonan is based out of Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland and works at Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council as Head of Information Systems.

Borja Ochoa Montoya

Global Head of Data, First Derivative
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Laura McClean

Senior Tech Executive
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I’m a strategic, commercially driven technology executive passionate about scaling high-impact teams, driving profitable growth, and building inclusive cultures that empower people to do their best work.
Most recently, as Regional Head of Synechron Northern Ireland, I built and scaled a 100+ person multidisciplinary practice spanning Data & AI, Cloud, Digital, and Engineering. Under my leadership, we consistently delivered strong revenue growth, a 47% average margin, and lasting enterprise-level client impact — combining commercial success with a commitment to people and community.
I bring a unique blend of operational leadership and commercial acumen, aligning go-to-market strategy, delivery, and cross-functional execution to fuel sustainable business growth. I’m deeply experienced in business development, client engagement, and forming strategic partnerships — always with a focus on customer value and long-term retention.
Known for turning complex challenges into scalable, market-driven solutions and fostering inclusive, high-performance cultures, I’m now focused on pursuing Chief Commercial Officer or other growth-focused C-suite roles—full-time or fractional—where I can lead transformative growth journeys locally and globally.
As a board member and advisor, I’m committed to strengthening the tech ecosystem by bridging industry and academia, nurturing talent pipelines, and driving innovation through collaboration.
Whether it’s scaling businesses, shaping commercial strategy, or fostering cultures of performance and inclusion, I bring energy, vision, and a relentless focus on growth and impact.

Patrick Shafe

Commercial Director, Deanta Global
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Patrick Shafe, based in Bristol, GB, is currently a Commercial Director at Deanta Global. Patrick Shafe brings experience from previous roles at BDS LIMITED, Entrepreneurial Sales Institute (ESI), Belle and Boo and Beyond Communications. Patrick Shafe holds a 2015 – 2015 Cranfield University. With a robust skill set that includes Management, Marketing Strategy, Customer Service, Strategic Planning, Sales and more.

Raymond Mulligan

Azure and Data & AI Specialist Lead, Microsoft Ireland
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Raymond Mulligan is an Azure Technical Solutions Professional for Microsoft Ireland. He has worked in the technology and application development space since 2001. He is responsible for showing the value of Microsoft Cloud and reducing road blocks that may prevent customers from transitioning their workloads to the cloud. He is passionate about large scale digital transformation in the modern world.

Tom Zglobicki

VP, Data Analytics Consulting, EPAM
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Tom Zglobicki, based in London, England, United Kingdom, is currently a Senior Director, Data Analytics Consulting | Head of Data and Analytics Gb,ie,me at Epam Systems. Tom Zglobicki brings experience from previous roles at Epam Systems, New Signature, London Borough of Redbridge and Hammersmith & Fulham Council. Tom Zglobicki holds a 1997 – 2002 MA in Sociology @ UMCS . With a robust skill set that includes Business Insight, Business Transition, Business Strategy, Healthcare Information Systems, Customer Management and more.

Seán Halvey

Data Scientist, Analytics Engines
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Data Scientist @ Analytics Engines.
MSci Mathematics and Statistics & Operational Research from Queen’s University Belfast.

Stephen McKeown

Vice President and Managing Director, Allstate NI
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Stephen McKeown is Global Vice President at Allstate and Managing Director at Allstate NI since February 2023. Stephen previously was Divisional CIO and Director at Allstate Technology and Strategic Ventures. Prior to Allstate he held a number of board level roles and has acted as a technical advisor to the European Commission’s Horizon Research and Development program and UK Technology Strategy Board. He is an experienced senior technology executive having worked with firms from large multinationals to niche specialists in the areas of business transformation, digital product development and operations.

Anna Horner

Marketing, Options Technology
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Shane Ryan


General Manager of Takeda Ireland and President of Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA)
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Life Science industry leader committed to representing the Irish biopharmaceutical sector. Experienced General Manager consistently delivering market leading growth, through fantastic teams with clarity of purpose and vision.
Extensive board directorship experience.
Continually inspired by an incredible family.

Big Data Dublin promises to be a transformative event, creating new opportunities for investment, collaboration, and innovation while cementing Ireland’s position as a leader in the global digital economy.
About Analytics Engines
Analytics Engines’ mission
Our mission is to become the trusted data analytics partner to international customers across industry and the public sector. We are delighted to be able to once again curate and present the 10th annual Big Data Belfast Conference at the ICC Belfast.
Big Data Belfast 2024
Big Data Belfast 2024 promises to have something for everyone, whether you are recruiting or showcasing, selling or buying, or just keen to spend a worthwhile day keeping up to date with the latest that the tech industry has to offer.

A Conference on the Rapid Advancements of AI and Big Data
Following the outstanding success of Big Data Belfast and Big Data NYC, we are delighted to introduce Big Data Dublin — a conference bringing together data leaders, AI innovators, and technology enthusiasts from across Ireland and beyond.
Hosted at Microsoft’s world-class headquarters in South Dublin, Big Data Dublin will feature expert speakers, dynamic panel sessions, interactive demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with key players in data, AI, and technology-driven industries.
While primarily focused on the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Technologies, Big Data Dublin will also explore the strategic opportunities these technologies bring to businesses operating in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and globally.

Big Data Belfast is presented by Analytics Engines
Analytics Engines are a team of experienced Data Scientists, Engineers and Industry-Leading Experts with a unique approach to developing Accelerated Data Solutions that deliver value and insights.