Dublin City University Appoints Prof Theo Lynn as Executive Dean of DCU Business School
Dublin City University has announced the appointment of Prof Theo Lynn as Executive Dean of DCU Business School, following an open public competition. Prof Lynn succeeds Prof Dominic Elliott.
A leading scholar in digital business and an experienced research and innovation leader, Professor Lynn is currently Full Professor of Digital Business at DCU Business School. He has served as Interim Executive Dean since January 2026. His research examines the transformative impact of digital technologies on business and society, spanning areas including artificial intelligence, digital platforms, trust, cloud computing and online behaviour. An experienced research and innovation leader, Professor Lynn has secured more than 250 grants representing over €20 million in total project funding, many of which are with Irish small businesses, a hallmark of DCU Business School. His recent research leadership includes the EU Horizon 2020-funded RINNO project, which explored technology-enabled approaches to deep energy renovation, and the pan-European SMART-RURAL initiative. He also co-leads DCU Business School’s research partnership with the FIA’s United Against Online Abuse initiative, supporting international research into online hate and abuse in sport. His recent scholarship reflects the breadth of this agenda, including research into online abuse, artificial intelligence and emerging digital threats, alongside the wider implications of technological change for organisations, consumers and society. Professor Lynn completed his doctoral studies at University College Dublin and joined DCU Business School in 2006.
As Executive Dean, Professor Lynn will lead the next phase of DCU Business School’s development and impact, building on its strengths in education, research and engagement with enterprise. His priorities will include deepening industry partnerships, advancing digital innovation and artificial intelligence, strengthening the School’s international reach, and ensuring its teaching and research continue to respond to the changing needs of business and society.
Speaking of the announcement, Prof Lynn said
It is a privilege to be appointed Executive Dean of DCU Business School at a time of profound change for business, education and society. DCU has always combined academic ambition with a strong connection to enterprise and a willingness to innovate. My priority will be to build on those strengths by working with our colleagues, students, alumni and partners to respond to the opportunities and responsibilities created by AI and digital transformation, deepen our international reach, and ensure that our teaching, research and industry engagement deliver meaningful impact in Ireland and beyond.
DCU President Professor Dáire Keogh said:
I want to congratulate Prof Lynn on his well-deserved appointment as Executive Dean of DCU Business School. Through his exceptional record of leadership and scholarship, Theo has made a major contribution to the School’s progression and its current position as one of the world’s leading Business Schools. I look forward to seeing its further advancement under his direction.