Alex von Schirmeister
Alex von Schirmeister
Managing Director, UK & EMEA Alex is the Managing Director of Xero, responsible for business operations across Europe, Middle East and Africa.  Alex has more than 25 years of senior leadership experience, having led teams across Europe and Latin America in e-commerce, payments, telecommunications, FMCG and consultancy.  Prior to Xero, he led the European operations for small business payments technology company SumUp, and before that held senior leadership positions at Electrocomponents plc and at eBay, where he gained exposure to a large constituency of merchant sellers. Alex believes that small businesses are a crucial piece of the fabric of our communities, alongside many of the sectors that support them – such as accountants and bookkeepers. He is passionate about giving small businesses access to the digital tools they need to unlock their true potential.
The UK economy depends on small businesses; they employ over 16.7 million people across the country, with an estimated turnover of £2.4 trillion.

It’s time to settle up: Addressing the late payments crisis that’s crippling small businesses

Alex von Schirmeister
Sep 9 '24
The UK economy depends on small businesses; they employ over 16.7 million people across the country, with an estimated turnover of £2.4 trillion.
How do you solve a problem like productivity?

How do you solve a problem like productivity? 

Alex von Schirmeister
Jun 20 '24
Productivity is a crucial economic benchmark for countries around the world. Improving it means companies can produce more without needing to increase staff numbers
How are we still talking about late payments

How are we still talking about late payments?

Alex von Schirmeister
May 20 '24
Picture this – something that contributes millions to the economy and accounts for more than half of UK employment is being constrained by a major obstacle that is entirely avoidable. You’d make it a priority to fix it, right?
Why it’s time to ditch the jargon

Why it’s time to ditch the jargon

Alex von Schirmeister
Mar 26 '24
Why it’s crucial technology firms and those supporting small businesses communicate clearly the relevance of new technology
Four AI trends small businesses should watch

Four AI trends small businesses should watch in 2024 and beyond 

Alex von Schirmeister
Jan 11 '24
Until recently, the applications of artificial intelligence have remained in the hands of scientists, engineers and big business
For UK small businesses, fighting tough economic conditions can feel relentless. Between inflation, low economic growth and labour shortages, many are facing the perfect storm of conditions that make trading difficult.

Staying on track in a challenging economy 

Alex von Schirmeister
Dec 19 '23
For UK small businesses, fighting tough economic conditions can feel relentless. Between inflation, low economic growth and labour shortages, many are facing the perfect storm of conditions that make trading difficult.
Keep your supply in order to prosper this festive season 

Keep your supply in order to prosper this festive season  

Alex von Schirmeister
Nov 22 '23
For business owners, the festive period represents more than spending well-earned time with family and friends
Beating the digital drag

Why beating the ‘digital drag’ could help your small business thrive

Alex von Schirmeister
Oct 12 '23
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from working with small businesses, it’s to never underestimate their incredible contribution – especially the smallest ones. They are the ones driving jobs, economic growth and a place for people to come together
Show me the money

Show me the money – finding funding in a low growth economy

Alex von Schirmeister
Sep 21 '23
Whether it’s an entrepreneur trying to get a new venture off the ground, or an existing business trying to get to the next level, there’s no escaping the fact that money makes the business world go round
Helping small businesses thrive with flexible working models

A new frontier: helping small businesses thrive with flexible working models

Alex von Schirmeister
Aug 9 '23
The Covid-19 pandemic changed the way businesses around the world operate
How to run your business mindfully, healthily and successfully

How to run your business mindfully, healthily and successfully

Alex von Schirmeister
Jul 11 '23
There are many different motivations behind starting a small business. Some people seek a better work life balance, while others chase bringing a lifelong passion project or business idea to life.
Five areas we need to see greater action on late payments

Five areas we need to see greater action on late payments

Alex von Schirmeister
Jun 13 '23
We all know about the big challenges facing small businesses. Many of these challenges are unavoidable – record inflation, a talent shortage and rising energy costs. That’s why it’s heartbreaking to see the continued impact of completely avoidable issues such as late payments damaging their outlook too.