John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

Mentoring has traditionally formed part of the suite of supports offered by Enterprise Ireland to its client companies. The existing mentor network, which is refreshed regularly, was established to help companies identify and overcome obstacles to growth, provide guidance and support and build management capability. Mentors are senior executives, drawn from the private sector, with a proven track record in business. They act as a confidential sounding board, advising companies on key operational and strategic issues.

A mentoring assignment consists of ten visits over 12 months. Companies choose mentors from a short-list with relevant experience. The goals and objectives are jointly agreed at the start of the assignment. Mentors sign a strict confidentiality agreement with Enterprise Ireland. Enterprise Ireland currently has 291 active mentors on its mentor network nationally.

On foot of the action plan for jobs, and building on the existing mentor offering, Enterprise Ireland has commenced development of an international mentor-adviser programme. This involved targeting a survey at potential domestic and overseas mentors including those in the Global Irish Network, GIN. By the closing date of 18 April, 100 responses had been received, which indicates a great willingness on the part of GIN members to assist companies in developing their business strategy and making introductions. At the end of this scoping exercise, Enterprise Ireland will roll out a pilot programme.

The Enterprise Ireland and IDA senior management team meeting took place this week and examination of the issue of the adoption of SMEs by multinationals has begun.

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