By Business & Finance 
John O’Shanahan is the Founder and Managing Director of LeanBPI, a leading digital growth consultancy based in Limerick. With more than 30 years of industry experience, including a decade working with SMEs, O’Shanahan is an expert in lean management and digital adoption.
By Emma Montalbani
What are your main priorities and goals in your role?
My main priority is to deliver exceptional customer service while staying at the forefront of industry developments.
With many SMEs facing pressure to adopt digital technologies, we aim to apply technology to solve real business problems clearly and effectively.
What are your biggest challenges as CEO?
My biggest challenge is the speed of new technology and understanding what matters in practice. It’s not just about new tools – it’s about how they shape the way people work and how businesses perform.
How do you keep your team/staff motivated?
In a small team, motivation comes from seeing the impact that you make. Client feedback is key – knowing we’ve genuinely improved how a business operates.
What are the challenges facing the industry going forward?
One of the main challenges the industry faces is making technology work in practice.
It’s about combining experience with the right tools. Often, there’s a gap between what’s possible and what organisations are ready for.
As the pace of change continues to accelerate, so does the pressure to deliver improvements in shorter timeframes.
What new trends are emerging in your industry?
AI is reshaping expectations. The conversation has shifted away from opinions and advice towards more practical solutions that deliver real change.
Are there any major changes you would like to see in your sector?
I would like to see more government support for SME technology adoption. Larger organisations can invest, but many SMEs don’t have the time, money or resources.
Targeted support can help them to stay competitive against bigger enterprises.
As an employer, are you finding any skill gaps in the market?
Many consultants come from large organisations where their work tends to be highly specialised, but SMEs need broader, practical capability.
At the same time, even experienced consultants need to upskill to fully understand the realm of possibilities that come with digital.
How did your strategy develop in the context of the economic crisis?
The biggest shift came with remote working and rapid digital adoption as a result of COVID-19. It changed how we deliver services, pushing us towards more flexible, digital-first approaches.
How do you define success, and what drives you to succeed?
Success for me is seeing a client achieve something that they didn’t think was possible.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given in business?
Find a niche and perfect it. Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Focus on what you’re good at and be honest when something isn’t the right fit.
What advice would you give to others starting in business?
Focus on what the problem is first and really understand what each customer needs. A lot of our work comes from referrals and repeat business, so this aspect is crucial.
What have been your highlights in business over the past year?
My personal highlight has been seeing clients apply new tools in practical ways and transforming their businesses for the better.
Another high point is the way in which we have been able to keep pace with rapid technological adaptations and stay ahead of the curve for the small businesses we work with.
What’s next for your company?
In terms of what’s next, we’ll continue to support SMEs at every stage of digital adoption – from those just starting to the more advanced businesses looking to harness cutting-edge technology.
Where do you want your business to be this time next year?
With technology rapidly evolving day-by-day, our goal is to strengthen our relationships with long-term clients, supporting them as they adopt and manage more advanced solutions.
What is the best non-business book you’ve read and why?
I’m Your Man: The Life of Leonard Cohen by Sylvie Simmons. I like it because it shows the real, complicated person behind the music and how Leonard Cohen managed to turn life’s ups and downs into great work.
What is your favourite hobby and why?
Sport, Limerick hurling, Munster and Ireland rugby, and Arsenal, alongside live music, walking, and travelling. They give me a way to switch off, stay active, and enjoy time outside of work.
What is your mantra for life?
Keep moving with the times. Stay curious, adaptable, and never stop learning.
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