Dublin, 24th April 2025 — Irish business leaders are showing greater optimism about future growth than peers across the UK, EU and North America, according to the HLB Survey of Business Leaders 2025. The data found that 86% of Irish executives expected revenue to rise over the next 12 months — significantly above the global average.

This positive sentiment sharply contrasted with more risk-averse attitudes in other markets. For instance, in North America, business leaders focus mainly on cost-cutting and margin protection. In Ireland, the picture was different: investment in people, innovation and technology remained central to boardroom conversations.

“The findings reflect a clear intent among Irish businesses to look ahead, not just hold the line,” said Mark Butler, Managing Partner, CEO at HLB Ireland. “There’s a willingness to act, invest, and lead — even in uncertain conditions.”

A Snapshot in Time — And a Market That Moves Fast

While the survey offers powerful insight into leadership sentiment at the start of the year, recent global events remind us of how quickly the landscape can shift. This week's announcement of new US tariffs has sent fresh ripples through international trade forecasts and may prompt a reassessment of strategy in the months ahead.

“This is the nature of the world we’re operating in,” said Mark. “What the survey shows us is the mindset business leaders had entering 2025. And while market dynamics will always evolve, resilient leadership is about having the agility to respond — not just react.”

Ireland’s Strategic Mindset Stands Out

Irish leaders were more likely than those in the UK, EU or US to view talent, innovation and ESG as long-term growth drivers — not simply costs to manage. While nearly half of North American leaders cited operational costs as their top concern, Irish firms were instead focused on building business capability and rethinking future competitiveness.

“The resilience we’re seeing in Ireland comes from purposeful investment,” Mark explained. “Not despite volatility — but because of it.”

Tech-Enabled, Talent-Focused

Technology adoption is well underway, with 64% of Irish firms having already deployed AI in some capacity. Yet, leaders remain pragmatic. The emphasis is on outcomes, not novelty. At the same time, there’s a firm commitment to talent — from flexible working to leadership development — as businesses focus on culture and capability.

“People and platforms are the twin priorities,” said Mark. “Firms that get both right will have a real edge.”

Looking Ahead: Resilient Leadership in Focus

The survey findings highlight the importance of resilience, agility, and decisive leadership in a world where certainty is increasingly rare. This week’s developments regarding US tariffs serve as a clear example. Businesses must be prepared to act, not just plan, and leadership teams that can respond swiftly and strategically will be the ones that stay ahead.

Ireland’s Leaders: Clear-Eyed, Future-Focused

Despite global pressures, the survey confirms that Irish leaders are not standing still. They’re setting their sights beyond today’s noise — and shaping strategies that are as resilient as they are ambitious.

“This is Ireland’s leadership moment,” Mark concluded. “And the strength we’ve seen in this survey tells me that our business community is more than ready for what’s next.” Full survey findings are available LINK.

ENDS

For media enquiries, please contact:

Martha O'Connor

[email protected]