Options Technology, a leading provider of financial technology and managed services for global capital markets, has reaffirmed its sponsorship of the 2025 Irish Echo 40 Under 40 Awards. The annual event recognises young Irish and Irish-American professionals making significant contributions in their fields.
Now in its 18th year, the Irish Echo 40 Under 40 Awards highlight individuals who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and a strong commitment to their communities. Among this year’s honourees is Aileen Kennedy, Director of Trading Infrastructure Operations at Options, who has been recognised with the Tech Ambassador Award.
Danny Moore, President and CEO of Options Technology, praised Kennedy’s achievements, stating: “We are thrilled to congratulate Aileen on this well-deserved recognition. Over six years ago, she took the leap from Belfast to New York, where her dedication and innovative approach have distinguished her in the industry. As a leader in ultra-low latency trading infrastructure, she continues to make a lasting impact.”
Recognising Irish and Irish-American Talent
The awards, organised by the Irish Echo newspaper, aim to showcase rising stars in various industries, from technology and finance to the arts and healthcare. The event’s organiser, Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, Publisher of the Irish Echo, emphasised the importance of celebrating young Irish and Irish-American professionals.
“The future of Irish America is in good hands with this exceptional group of young leaders,” he said. “Each honouree embodies bold ambition, selfless generosity, and deep pride in their heritage—hallmarks of Irish America. We’re delighted to welcome back Options as lead sponsors for the event.”
Ellen Flanagan, Vice-Consul of Ireland in New York, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the awards’ role in showcasing the next generation of Irish leaders. “It is a testament to the strength of the Irish and Irish-American community that a new generation of leaders are taking over the mantle and contributing to a wide range of sectors, including science, culture, business, and health,” she said. “The Irish Echo has played a key role in supporting and acknowledging this fantastic cohort of leaders.”
Celebration in New York
New York City Council Member Keith Powers also commended the honourees, acknowledging their achievements across multiple industries. “As the chair of the City Council’s Irish Caucus, I am proud to welcome this esteemed group of individuals who represent the best of Irish heritage in the United States to New York City,” he said. “These honourees are accomplished across an array of fields, and Irish Americans can be proud to see our culture represented in such talented young people.”
The awards ceremony is set to take place on 28 February at The View at Battery Park in New York City, offering a platform for attendees to celebrate and network with industry changemakers.
This latest sponsorship continues a period of growth for Options Technology, following key company milestones such as the promotion of Michelle Kendell to Vice President and Managing Director of Hong Kong, a rowing partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, and a recent investment from Vitruvian Partners aimed at accelerating the firm’s expansion and innovation.
For more details and to view profiles of all 40 honourees, visit: www.irishecho.com.
