Cormac Fitzgerald takes on ISME national council role

SME specialist accountant Cormac Fitzgerald,  FCPA, FCA, appointed to national council of ISME.

Kinsale-based chartered accountant Cormac Fitzgerald, has been appointed to the board and national council of the Irish SME Association (ISME), the representative group for the Irish small and medium business sector.

Mr Fitzgerald is principal of Kinsale-based accounting firm Fitzgerald & Partners, is FCPA and FCA qualified. His specialist focus is on the SME sector, advising owner-managed businesses on taxation, corporate governance, restructuring, and strategic growth over last 26 years.

His appointment reflects ISME’s commitment to trusted business leadership and practical expertise drawn directly from working with indigenous Irish enterprises. ISME represents over 10,500 members nationwide and acts as an independent voice for the SME sector.

A fellow of Chartered Accountants, Cormac has held several senior leadership and governance roles. He is a past president of CPA Ireland and currently serves as president of Kinsale Lions Club. He also serves on the finance committee of the CUH Charity. His work consistently centres on supporting SME owners in navigating financial, governance, and strategic challenges.

In 2021, Mr Fitzgerald co-authored Smart Tips for SMEs — Understanding the SME Environment in an Irish Context with leading economist Jim Power, providing practical guidance to Irish businesses during the COVID-19 period. He is currently planning a further publication focused on the evolving challenges and opportunities facing Irish SMEs.

Cormac said: “I am honoured to join the board and National Council of ISME. I have always been passionate about the SME sector, and the vital role owner-managed businesses play in the Irish economy.

“My professional focus has been on supporting SMEs, and I look forward to contributing to ISME’s work in advocating for practical policies and strong supports for small and medium-sized businesses.” 

Cormac works closely with entrepreneurs, businesses, and growing companies across Ireland, providing strategic business advice, governance support, and long-term planning tailored specifically to SME needs.

Meanwhile, Cormac also recently chaired the Chartered Accountants Ireland Cork Society Members in Practice – Connecting Colleagues Conference at Fota Island Resort, where practitioners from across the profession gathered to discuss tax developments, economic trends and the growing impact of AI and technology in professional practice.

Cormac said: “SMEs are central to our local economy. As Chartered Accountants our focus is on providing clear, practical advice that helps business owners make informed decisions and plan with confidence.” 

Cormac also recently attended the UCC benefactors’ lunch hosted by Cork University Foundation, bringing together business leaders supporting education, innovation, and regional economic development on behalf of Kinsale & District Lions Club.