Strategic ambition without execution is a missed opportunity. While many Irish SMEs recognise the importance of strategic planning, few have the financial management systems and operational discipline required to bring their plans to life.

Fitzgerald Power’s survey of over 80 Irish SME leaders revealed clear execution gaps:
  • Only 52% of SMEs use a dynamic forecasting model.
  • Just 27% have a defined process for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • 36% have no formal HR function in place.

These gaps reflect a broader issue: most SMEs operate without the financial clarity or structural maturity required to scale. Strategy may set the destination, but finance and operations power the journey. This second whitepaper in the Strategy 360 series explores how ambitious SMEs can unlock growth and resilience by strengthening their financial infrastructure and operational foundation.