Spotlight on Aidan Harney: Guiding Excellence at the HR Leadership & Management Awards 2025

As we celebrate the outstanding achievements honoured at the HR Leadership & Management Awards 2025, it’s equally important to shine a light on the dedicated professionals behind the judging process. One such standout figure is Dr. Aidan Harney, a seasoned strategist and thought leader whose unique expertise and people-first perspective helped shape this year’s awards.

A Career Dedicated to People, Purpose, and Performance

Aidan Harney currently serves as Strategy Manager for Culture & Organisational Development (OD) at ESB, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s future capabilities and cultural direction. At the heart of his work is a bold ambition: to support ESB’s journey towards delivering a net carbon neutral, resilient, and sustainable electrical system in Ireland by 2040.

With over 25 years’ experience exploring the dynamics of leadership, growth, and team performance, Aidan has a rich background in both global corporations and national institutions. He spent a significant part of his career at Intel Corporation, where he held roles across Leadership Development, Culture Change, Strategic Workforce Planning, and Organisational Development at local, European, and enterprise levels.

Shaping Systems, Empowering People

Aidan also served as Director of Continuing Professional Development at Engineers Ireland, where he oversaw employer accreditation programmes focused on quality systems for talent and organisational development. His passion lies in understanding how people and teams thrive amid complexity—and how strong cultures and leadership can drive real, lasting impact.

His academic background is equally impressive. Aidan holds a PhD in Leadership Psychology in Complexity from Munster Technological University, where he explored what makes exceptional leaders stand out in uncertain and fast-changing environments. He also holds a Master’s in Business Studies from DCU and a Higher Diploma in OD from CIPD.

Coaching the Leaders of Tomorrow

Aidan brings his extensive knowledge into practice through over two decades of mentoring and coaching. As an accredited Individual and Team Coach with EMCC, he continues to inspire current and future HR and business leaders alike.

His involvement as a judge in the HR Leadership & Management Awards 2025 reflects not only his expertise, but also his deep commitment to recognising excellence and encouraging innovation in HR and organisational strategy.

Meet More of the Judging Panel

Dr. Aidan Harney is one of many respected experts who lent their time, insight, and integrity to this year’s judging process—ensuring the awards remained fair, rigorous, and meaningful.

Discover the full judging panel here: HR Leadership & Management Awards 2025 Judges 

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