After over seven year away, Partner, Barry Donnelly returns to Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors. In this short interview, we find out more about Barry and his new role.

Q: Barry, welcome back. What attracted you to returning to Caldwell & Robinson at this stage of your career?

Returning to Caldwell & Robinson felt like a natural next step. The firm has always combined strong commercial instincts with a forward-thinking mindset, and that alignment is even stronger now. After gaining significant experience away from the firm, particularly in data protection and AI, I felt this was the right environment to bring those skills back and integrate them into a practice that is already highly respected across jurisdictions.

Q: During your time away, you developed specialist expertise in data protection and AI. How did that come about

As the Head of Information Governance (IG) and Data Protection Officer at the Education Authority, I was responsible for the  development and management of a professional IG function for the  Education Authority (EA), leading the development of an IG  Framework to ensure compliance with the relevant legislation in line with best practice standards. I led a large team of IG professionals to establish a culture of effective IG across EA and ensure the highest standards of compliance with our statutory responsibilities. In my role as Head of Information Governance (IG) and Data Protection Officer I was directly involved in the governance and risk management of AI projects relating to EA and schools, giving me “in the field” experience in relation to the implementation of new technologies, rather than purely theoretical or compliance-based advice. That hands-on exposure meant dealing with real-world challenges around AI deployment, governance, risk management and data protection. It has been an evolving and fast-moving space, and that practical experience has been invaluable.

Q: You are widely recognised for your commercial property How does that experience shape your approach as a Corporate and Commercial Partner?

Commercial property is often the backbone of a business, whether through ownership, development, leasing or investment. Having worked extensively across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and England & Wales, I understand the strategic importance of property within wider corporate transactions. That perspective allows me to add real value when advising clients on growth, restructuring and long-term planning.

Q: You are known for your cross-jurisdictional work. Why is that particularly important for clients today?

Many clients operate across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and England & Wales, and they expect advice that reflects that reality. Regulatory frameworks, data protection regimes and commercial practices may differ, but business decisions are rarely confined to one jurisdiction. Being able to join those dots clearly and practically is something clients value highly.

Q: What types of clients or matters are you most looking forward to working on at Caldwell & Robinson?

I’m particularly interested in working with owner managed businesses that are scaling, innovating or adopting new technologies alongside their commercial strategies. That includes developers, investors, tech-enabled businesses and organisations navigating AI and data-driven change while remaining compliant and commercially agile. Helping family-run businesses grow is also something which I find highly rewarding because it allows me to act as a strategic, long-term partner rather than just a transactional service provider.

Q: How do you see AI and data protection impacting businesses in the short to medium term?

AI presents enormous opportunities, but it also brings regulatory, ethical and commercial risks. Businesses need clear, pragmatic advice that goes beyond theory. My focus is on helping clients adopt new technologies confidently, ensuring compliance while enabling innovation rather than stifling it.

Q: How do you approach advising clients in fast-moving areas like AI and data protection?

Pragmatism is key. Clients don’t just want to know what the rules are – they want to understand risk, opportunity and how to move forward with confidence. My approach is to give clear, commercially grounded advice that enables progress rather than creating unnecessary barriers.

Q: What will you be focusing on in your role at C&R over the coming months?

My priority is building on the strong Corporate and Commercial offering that integrates commercial property, data protection and AI expertise. I’m also looking forward to working closely with colleagues across the firm to support clients with increasingly complex, cross-border (and international) matters.

 Q: What does returning as a Partner at C&R mean to you personally?

It’s a privilege and a responsibility. I worked with Caldwell & Robinson for over 10 years previously so, in many ways it feels like coming home. C&R has a strong reputation and a collaborative culture, and returning allows me to contribute to shaping the firm’s future, mentoring colleagues and continuing to build trusted relationships with clients.

 Q: Finally, what do you hope clients and colleagues will say about working with you?

That I’m approachable, commercially minded and focused on solutions. Whether it’s a complex property transaction or navigating new technology risks, my aim is always to help clients achieve their objectives with clarity and confidence.