Programme Manager

Overview

Research Ireland is the national research and innovation funding body formed in August 2024, merging the Irish Research Council and Science Foundation Ireland. The agency supports world-class research across disciplines including Arts, Humanities, Engineering, Science, Social Sciences, Technology and more, aiming to drive innovation and societal benefit in Ireland.

The Research for Society Directorate links research with societal impact by enabling research to influence public policy, services, and public engagement. This directorate facilitates partnerships between researchers, policymakers, communities, and civic organizations to deliver tangible benefits for Irish society.

Role Purpose

The Programme Manager role is newly created to support the launch and ongoing management of a Societal Initiative of Scale programme, a key strategic focus within Research Ireland's 2026-2030 plan. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Public Engagement for Research and contribute across various directorate activities. The position involves program design, stakeholder consultation, project and budget management, as well as external representation and partnership development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a comprehensive consultation process to inform the design of a new large-scale societal initiative program, analyzing input and producing reports and briefing documents.
• Collaborate with leadership to design and launch the program, managing inquiries and feedback through appropriate channels.
• Develop and oversee new and existing program funding calls aligned with national research strategies, enhancing Ireland's research and innovation capabilities.
• Manage large, complex, multi-year projects involving diverse internal teams and external partners under tight timelines.
• Conduct thorough program review processes including proposal evaluations and panel assessments.
• Handle financial oversight and budgeting for multi-partner and co-funded projects and events.
• Provide management, mentorship, and training to junior staff, including direct reports.
• Engage in matrix management alongside other program managers for resource allocation.
• Represent Research Ireland at national and international forums related to research strategy implementation.
• Develop innovative strategic initiatives and partnerships with both public and private sector stakeholders.
• Offer technical consultancy services to government departments and external stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with Corporate Communications, IT, Strategy, and Research Policy teams on program activities and strategic plans.
• Occasional travel as required by the role.
• Perform additional duties appropriate for the role’s level and responsibilities.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum qualification at NFQ Level 8 in a relevant area.
• At least five years of relevant experience including:
  • Two or more years managing projects or programs.
  • At least one year of direct people management experience.
• Strong ability to translate strategic plans into operational results with meticulous detail orientation.
• Proven success in developing and maintaining effective partnerships with external stakeholders.
• Skilled at managing multiple priorities, meeting deadlines, and adapting in a dynamic environment.
• Capacity to handle ambiguity by employing analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Possession of a valid driving license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degrees such as Master's (Level 9) or PhD (Level 10) in a related field.
• Experience within research organizations focusing on multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary initiatives.
• Track record designing and implementing strategic programs.
• Experience in matrix management structures and leading cross-functional teams, including indirect reports.
• Direct involvement managing projects in Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences disciplines.

Application Process

Applicants must submit a cover letter (max two pages) explaining how they meet the role requirements along with an updated CV as a single document. Applications are accepted through an online system by 20 November at 1pm. Shortlisted candidates will undergo interviews, competency assessments, and other evaluation methods. Interviews are in-person with fixed dates on 8-9 December and 17 December.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting salary is €83,113 per year, rising up to €108,355 inclusive of long service increments, with pension contributions. Initial pay aligns with public sector guidelines at the minimum salary scale. Additional benefits include:

• Defined Benefit Pension Scheme within the Single Public Service system.
• Progressive workplace policies including blended working, sick leave, and family-friendly arrangements.
• Modern facilities featuring a subsidized canteen.
• Life insurance coverage.
• 30 days annual leave, increasing with tenure.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and development.

Working Arrangement

This full-time role requires a minimum of two days per week at the office.