Irish CEOs prioritise resilience and regionalisation amid global volatility.
Irish chief executives are demonstrating growing confidence in their ability to navigate persistent geopolitical and economic uncertainty, according to EY’s latest CEO Outlook.
The survey, which canvassed more than 1,200 global CEOs including 40 in Ireland, reveals a strategic pivot toward regionalisation, automation, and targeted transformation as leaders seek to build long-term resilience.
“Their priorities are clear: secure critical supply chains, allocate capital where it delivers long-term value, and double down on technology that drives performance, including embedding automation and AI”
While 57% of global CEOs expect uncertainty to persist beyond the next 12 months, Irish CEOs are notably more optimistic.
Sixty percent anticipate profitability over the coming year, and a majority also expect revenue growth. This confidence is underpinned by a pragmatic approach to transformation, with 58% planning to accelerate change through automation, simplification, and sustainability initiatives.
Irish business leaders’ mindset shift
Helena O’Dwyer, partner and head of Strategy at EY-Parthenon Ireland, said the findings reflect a shift in mindset among Irish business leaders.
“Following a period earlier this year when many firms adopted a ‘wait and see’ approach, we are now seeing a shift toward action. Nearly six in ten Irish CEOs say they plan to increase investment in portfolio transformation and strategic M&A over the next 12 months.”
Regionalisation has emerged as a defining theme, with 77% of Irish CEOs prioritising production and sourcing closer to home.
Seventy percent have embedded regionalisation into core strategy areas including operations, supply chains, and technology. This marks a departure from globalised models, as firms seek to reduce exposure to international volatility and stay closer to customers.
Despite the upbeat outlook, CEOs face a complex mix of operational pressures. While 78% expressed optimism about managing input costs – up from 48% in May – energy costs remain a concern, with half of respondents saying they are directly affecting performance.
Regulatory complexity and talent acquisition are also cited as key challenges. Confidence in attracting and retaining talent has dropped sharply to 35%, down from 55% in the previous survey, with digital and technical roles particularly affected.
Carol Murphy, EY Ireland partner and head of Markets, said Irish CEOs are focusing transformation on actions that deliver measurable results.
“Their priorities are clear: secure critical supply chains, allocate capital where it delivers long-term value, and double down on technology that drives performance, including embedding automation and AI.”
M&A and partnerships remain central to strategic planning, with 98% of Irish CEOs indicating intent to pursue deals in the year ahead. Many are targeting acquisitions that offer practical gains such as new technology, skilled talent, or access to untapped markets. Innovation is also a motivator, with 38% acquiring to bring fresh ideas into their organisations.
External pressures are shaping these strategies. Thirty percent of Irish CEOs expect tariffs to weaken financial performance, prompting investment in automation and supply chain reconfiguration. Ireland’s position as a preferred investment destination remains strong, with nearly half of CEOs ranking it among their top three priorities for capital allocation, ahead of the United States and the United Kingdom.
The EY CEO Confidence Index, which measures sentiment across strategy, operations, and investment, stands at 83 globally – up seven points since May – signalling a broader shift toward proactive leadership in uncertain times.
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