First Derivatives founder named Entrepreneur of the Year

BRIAN CONLON, the founder and chief executive of Newry firm First Derivatives plc, is the 13th Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

Mr Conlon was the winner of the International Category, the overall title which was presented by the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese.

Founded by Mr Conlon in 1996, First Derivatives plc, which trades on the Irish and London stock exchange, is a leading provider of products and consulting services to the capital markets industry.

The company is headquartered in Newry, Co Down, where it has established its research and development centre, its Capital Markets Competency Centre and its near-shore support facilities.

The company’s clients include nine of the 10 largest US investment banks, 30 of the world’s top hedge funds, two of the world’s largest stock exchanges and three of the largest retail banks in South-East Asia. First Derivatives plc now employs over 450 employees worldwide.

Frank O’Keeffe, partner-in-charge of the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, said: “Brian Conlon has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial vision with an innovative and successful business model. He is at the forefront of Irish companies contributing to the new global economy.”

InterTradeIreland chief executive Liam Nellis said Mr Conlon is a role model for entrepreneurs across the island.

“More so than ever, we must draw on our ability to adapt and be inventive and innovative. It will be this willingness to succeed, together with the expertise and experience that exists North and South, that will contribute to the revival of both economies.”

Two other key awards were announced amongst the 24 finalists.

Mike and Pat Glennon of Longford-based timber processing firm, Glennon Brothers, were named the Ernst & Young Industry Entrepreneur of the Year, and Dublin-born Conrad Burke of Innovalight, with headquarters in Silicon Valley, California, was awarded the Ernst & Young Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year title.

A special award for achievements outside of the traditional business arena was awarded to Dr Martin McAleese for his Your Country, Your Call successful endeavour — for leading by example.

Commenting on Dr McAleese’s award Frank O’Keeffe said: “It was in 2010 that one man — who is more accustomed to working quietly in the background — proved to all of us the meaning of leadership. Because sometimes, as a nation, we need to be reminded of our infinite potential.”

Brian Conlon will go on to represent Ireland at the World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in Monte Carlo in June 2011.