Luke Middleton

Group Lead, Tech Ireland Advocates & GTA SportsTech

I’m currently CEO of ESP, where I focus on building cross-border business connections between Ireland and China. ESP supports companies in establishing and scaling operations in both regions, enabling international growth and market access.

I also serve as Head of the Advisory Board for Global Tech Advocates SportsTech, where I help guide innovation and collaboration across the global sportstech ecosystem.

Alongside these roles, I’m undertaking a PhD focused on the application of artificial intelligence in rugby union—combining research, data, and performance insights to drive innovation in sport.

I hold a BSc in Enterprise Computing from Dublin City University and an MSc in Health Informatics from Trinity College Dublin. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with start-ups and SMEs from early-stage planning through to successful exits, including time as CTO. During this period, I led technical strategy and managed international development teams, gaining experience across a wide range of sectors.

My interests lie at the intersection of AI, sport, and global entrepreneurship. I’m always open to connecting with those working in technology, sportstech, or international business.