John Byrne
John Byrne has made a strong impact since joining Celtic FC’s PR department in 2024, stepping into a high-pressure role at a pivotal time for the club.
Within months, he supported communications around the Women’s team securing their first SWPL title, followed by UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage qualification, where he coordinated all comms activity across the campaign.
Operating in a demanding media environment, he has navigated a challenging period for the club with consistency and composure, building strong relationships with players and coaches while delivering clear, effective media support.
His career to date shows a well-rounded progression across sport and communications. Prior to Celtic, he worked as a Communications Officer with APPLiA and as a Junior Communications Consultant with logos Public Affairs consultancy in Brussels. He began his career in Irish sport with Bohemian Football Club as Social Media Officer, alongside a role with the Public Relations Institute of Ireland. Earlier experience with Electronic Arts in Vancouver added an international and digital dimension to his skillset.
He holds a Master’s in Social Media Communications from Dublin City University, complemented by a Professional Diploma in Sports Communication and Fan Engagement from FC Barcelona Innovation Hub, and a degree in Communication and Media Studies.
Already Appearing on the 2026 List
Sarah Redmond, Connor Ellis, Garry Kehoe, Yvonne Hedigan Conor Keenan, Roman Uzun, Louise McCleery, Niamh O’Brien, Annie Smyth, Ger Bonner, Myles Higgins, Ava Elders Gallagher, Gemma Uprichard, Niall McCabe, Nia Gallagher, Eimante Mikneviciute, Matthew McGovern, Tom Hyland, Claire Cashman, David Higgins, Carrie O’Keeffe, Sarah Hughes, Suzanne Casey, Daragh Searing, Matt O’Rourke, Hannah McLoughlin
Nominations for 2027
Nominations for our 2026 listing are now closed, with over 100 nominations recieved, proving the depth of young talent in the sector. We will reopen again in February 2027 for nominatuions for next year’s list.
Criteria for This Year
The criteria for submission is that the person should be working within the sports industry, or in a sponsorship or agency capacity that is bringing sport to life, and that they should be born in or after 1996.
Peers and colleagues were invited to submit names and a short summary of why an individual deserves to be recognised.
Our ambition from the start has been to create a network of people making a real difference within our industry.
In June we will gather once more in the offices of PwC to meet in person, share experience and forge connections that will be of real value.
And we will also be looking at additional ways in which we can help those nominated to enhance their career and build strong friendships across the sector, particularly in this the tenth year of the list.
If you, like PwC, would like to be part of the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the conversation happening every day around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
Image Credit: Sport for Business
ABOUT SPORT FOR BUSINESS
Sport for Business is Ireland’s leading platform focused on the commercial, strategic and societal impact of sport. It connects decision-makers across governing bodies, clubs, brands, agencies and public institutions through high-quality content, events and insight. Sport for Business explores how sport drives economic value, participation, inclusion and national identity, and how your story can be part of ours.
Through analysis, storytelling and convening the sector, it helps leaders understand trends, share best practice and make better-informed decisions. Its work positions sport not just as entertainment, but as a vital contributor to Ireland’s social and economic fabric.
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