The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME) has elected Sligo businessman Finbarr Filan as its new Chair at its AGM in Dublin.
Mr Filan will serve in the role for two years and will lead ISME's National Council and Board of Directors.
A native of Sligo town, Finbarr operates has served as ISME Vice-Chair since 2023 and has held senior roles across the medical device, pharmaceutical and construction sectors before moving into retail.
ISME Council member Elaine Dunne, Secretary of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, has been elected Vice-Chair.
"I'm honoured to take on the role of ISME Chair at a time when the SME sector is facing both significant challenges and real opportunities. As someone based in the regions, I am particularly focused on ensuring that the voice of SMEs, the backbone of the Irish economy, continues to be heard," Finbarr Filan said.
Neil McDonnell, the CEO of ISME, said that Mr Filan brings exceptional experience and a deep understanding of both SME business realities and the broader policy environment.
"He is a passionate advocate for town centre regeneration and for ensuring our regional economies thrive. We are delighted to have him lead the association at this important time," he added.
As ISME Chair, Finbarr Filan is focused on securing formal representation for SMEs on the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF).
He wants reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated to ensure it reflects real cost-of-living solutions rather than driving unsustainable wage inflation.
He also champions town centre regeneration through enhanced supports for repurposing derelict buildings and advocates VAT rule changes to support earlier SME entry into export markets.
On legal and insurance reform, the new ISME chair is calling for a statutory defence against transient retail defamation and implementation of key recommendations from the Kelly Report to help reduce public liability insurance costs and protect SME viability.
