ISME (Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association) has elected Sligo businessman, Finbarr Filan, as its new Chair at the organisation’s annual general meeting, which has taken place in Dublin.
He takes over the role from outgoing Chair Marc O’Dwyer and will serve in the role for two years, leading ISME’s National Council and Board of Directors.
A native of Sligo town, Filan operates the award-winning family-owned Centra store in Sligo and has served as ISME Vice-Chair since 2023.
He 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.
Filan played a leading role in the revitalisation of Sligo Town Centre and the creation of the Sligo Business Improvement District (BID), which he chairs.
He is also a member of the Government Advisory Group for the Town Centre First Policy, the National Retail Forum and steering group member of the Irish Town and City Development Association.
Speaking about his new role, Filan said: “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.”
Neil McDonnell, CEO of ISME, added: “Finbarr 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.”
As ISME Chair, Filan will be focused on securing formal representation for SMEs on the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF).
He will argue for reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated, ensuring it reflects real cost-of-living solutions rather than driving unsustainable wage inflation.
He will also champion 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, Filan 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.
Filan holds a BTech in Manufacturing Technology, ACCA Dip in Accounting and Finance and Post Grad Diplomas in European Studies and Management.
Photo: New ISME Chair Finbarr Filan with Vice Chair Elaine Dunne
