Sligo's Filan chosen as the latest chair of ISME in election process.
Irish Businessman Finbarr Filan Appointed New Chair of Small Business Association
The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME) has announced Sligo businessman Finbarr Filan as its new chair during the organization's AGM in Dublin. Filan will serve a two-year term and will lead ISME's National Council and Board of Directors.
A native of Sligo town, Filan has served as ISME's Vice-Chair since 2023. He has held senior roles in various sectors, including medical devices, pharmaceuticals, construction, and retail.
Elaine Dunne, Council member of ISME and Secretary of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, was elected Vice-Chair.
"I am honored to take on the role of ISME Chair at a time when the SME sector is encountering both significant challenges and valuable opportunities," Filan stated. "Being based in the regions, I am particularly focused on ensuring the voice of SMEs, the backbone of the Irish economy, continues to be heard."
Neil McDonnell, CEO of ISME, commented that Filan brings extraordinary experience and a deep understanding of both SME business realities and the broader policy environment. "He's a passionate advocate for town center regeneration and for ensuring our regional economies thrive. We are pleased to have him lead the association at this crucial time," McDonnell added.
As ISME's new chair, Filan plans to secure formal representation for SMEs on the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF). He also aims to reform the National Minimum Wage calculation to reflect real cost-of-living solutions, rather than contributing to unsustainable wage inflation.
Further intentions include advocating for VAT rule changes to support SMEs entering export markets earlier, pushing for a statutory defense against transient retail defamation, and implementing key recommendations from the Kelly Report to reduce public liability insurance costs and safeguard SME viability.
Filan's focus in these roles is expected to revolve around supporting small business growth, policy advocacy, and addressing challenges faced by SMEs, such as regulatory compliance, access to funding, and market competitiveness.
Finbarr Filan, as the new chair of ISME, intends to secure formal representation for SMEs on the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF), engaging in finance-related discussions that could impact the industry and business sector. In his roles, Filan aims to reform the National Minimum Wage calculation, ensuring it reflects real cost-of-living solutions rather than contributing to unsustainable wage inflation within the business community.
