James Murtagh shortlisted for Franchisee of the Year, Non-Food at the Irish Franchise Association Awards 2026
We are delighted to share that James Murtagh has been recognised as a finalist in the Franchisee of the Year, Non-Food category at the Irish Franchise Association Awards 2026. It is very well deserved. James Murtagh shortlisted for Franchisee of the Year, Non-Food at the Irish Franchise Association Awards 2026
James runs the Junior Einsteins Science Club® South Dublin, North West Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow territories, and he does it with serious drive and consistency. He shows up, he follows through, and he runs his franchise business like a true leader.
A multi territory operator with real standards
Running one territory well is hard. Running multiple territories and keeping standards high is a different level.
James is constantly building relationships, strengthening local partnerships, filling events, and raising the bar on delivery. He is proactive, organised, and commercially sharp. His marketing is clear and effective. His collaborations are strong. He has built a reputation locally for brilliant kids events that parents trust and venues want back.
A STEM education champion in the community
James is also a proper STEM education champion. Through Junior Einsteins Science Club® he reaches thousands of primary school children with messy, exciting, hands-on science that is fun, fast paced, and unforgettable. Kids leave buzzing, parents talk about it, schools rebook, and venues come back for more.
Great delivery does not happen by accident. It happens because someone insists on quality, every time.
He leads people well
What stands out most is how James leads his team. He backs his instructors, keeps quality high, and makes sure every event feels professional, high energy, and worth every penny. That matters. It protects the customer experience, it protects the brand, and it builds long term trust in the community.
Always learning, then applying it fast
A big reason James keeps improving is that he keeps learning. He stays active on the Junior Einsteins Academy across both the business growth side and the STEM delivery side, then he applies what he learns quickly in the real world. He shows up to training calls as a leader, prepared, thoughtful, and willing to share what is working. That combination of ambition, discipline, and generosity is exactly why his franchise business keeps raising the bar.
A proud moment for the whole Junior Einsteins Science Club® system
James being shortlisted is a proud moment for the whole Junior Einsteins Science Club® community. It highlights what great franchise ownership looks like when it is done properly, consistent delivery, strong leadership, and real commitment to excellence.
We are also proud that Junior Einsteins Science Club® is a finalist in three other categories at the Irish Franchise Association Awards 2026, Franchisor of the Year, Established 5 plus years, Irish International Franchisor of the Year, and Special Recognition Award, Leadership in Franchising.
Massive congrats again, James. You are in great company, and we cannot wait to cheer you on at the awards night.
