Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Organisation – Immigrant Council of Ireland

Location: 7 Red Cow Lane, Dublin, D07 XN29

Hybrid - This hybrid role is a key leadership position, requiring the post holder to maintain a visible presence in the Dublin office and/or attend meetings in the city at least 2-3 days per week.

Salary – 70,000 EUR to 80,000 EUR per annum DOE

About Us

The Immigrant Council of Ireland is a national non-governmental organisation & Independent Law Centre. We have been advocating for the rights of migrants and their families since our establishment in 2001. Our vision is to create a society that is fair, respects human rights and diversity, and empowers everyone, including those from a migrant background, to fulfil their potential.

As a human rights organisation, we support individuals through expert legal advice, policy advocacy, and public engagement. Our helpline provides critical support for those navigating challenges in their lives, and we act as a catalyst for systemic change by proposing evidence-based amendments to Irish immigration law. We specialise in assisting vulnerable children and women, including victims of trafficking, and campaign for a more effective state response to such crimes. Additionally, we champion migrant integration, tackle racism, and promote inclusive participation in Irish society.

With over two decades of dedicated service, we have remained committed to ensuring Ireland is a place of equality, justice, and protection for all, fostering an inclusive society free from prejudice. At a pivotal time in migration and integration in Ireland and Europe, the Immigrant Council of Ireland values its strong collaborative approach with migrant communities, policy makers, political representatives and other key stakeholders.

Job Summary

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the strategic and operational leader of the Immigrant Council of Ireland, reporting to the Board of Directors. In partnership with the Board, the CEO will develop and implement the organisation’s strategy to achieve its mission of advocating for migrants’ rights and fostering a fair and inclusive society.

The CEO will ensure the organisation’s financial sustainability, operational excellence, and alignment with its core values of human rights, diversity, and inclusion. As the principal representative and advocate, the CEO builds partnerships, promotes policy change, and raises the organisation’s profile to address systemic issues faced by migrants.

Overseeing all functions of the organisation, the CEO ensures effective governance, high-quality service delivery, and evidence-based policy advocacy. They will lead a diverse team, fostering an inclusive workplace while ensuring accountability, compliance, and operational efficiency.

The CEO also drives fundraising and resource development, securing the financial resources necessary for short- and long-term sustainability. With a focus on strategic leadership and stakeholder engagement, the CEO positions the organisation as a trusted voice and catalyst for positive change in immigration and integration policy.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership
   • Provide effective leadership to the organisation and team, ensuring alignment and focus on achieving the organisation’s strategic objectives and goals.
   • Collaborate with the Board to develop and implement the organisation’s strategy and vision.
   • Ensure the organisation’s relevance, sustainability, and impact within its field of operation.
   • Act as the organisation’s primary public representative, promoting its mission and values.
2. Governance and Compliance
   • Support the Board in fulfilling its governance duties and regulatory obligations.
   • Ensure timely reporting and compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
   • Provide regular updates on strategic progress, risks, and opportunities.
3. Financial Sustainability
   • Lead efforts to secure funding, including grants, donor partnerships, and fundraising campaigns including the developing area of generated income through training initiatives.
   • Develop and manage the organisation’s budget, ensuring effective use of resources.
   • Oversee financial reporting, audits, and long-term planning for sustainability.
4. Operational Management
   • Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency and alignment with strategic goals.
   • Develop and implement policies, systems, and processes to maintain high-quality programmes and services.
   • Recruit, develop, and retain talented staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture.
   • Foster a high-performing working environment within a hybrid working model.
5. Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy
   • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including migrant community leaders & representatives, government, donors, and partner organisations.
   • Represent the organisation in public forums, including media appearances, conferences, industry events, and stakeholder engagements, advocating for policies and initiatives that align with its mission.
   • Actively engage with the community served to understand their needs and priorities in line with the organisation’s values.
   • Further develop platforms for migrant communities to self-advocate through initiatives such as the Migrant Leadership Academy & the National Integration Conference.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation
   • Track organisational performance against strategic objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs).
   • Lead regular reviews to assess programme effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.
   • Keep the Board informed of emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities.

Skills & Experience

• Demonstrated leadership experience in a not-for-profit or similarly mission-driven organisation at a senior manager or director level and above.
• Proven track record in strategy development, financial management, and fundraising.
• Strong understanding of the Charities Governance Code.
• Compliance with the regulations of the Law Society of Ireland concerning independent law centre status is an advantage.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a history of stakeholder engagement, advocacy and public representation.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Vision and Execution: Ability to translate the organisation’s mission into actionable strategies and achieve measurable results.
• Financial Acumen: Expertise in financial planning, fundraising, and resource management to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Leadership and People Management: Proven ability to inspire, lead, and develop diverse teams while fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Communication and Advocacy: Exceptional public speaking, writing, and relationship-building skills to effectively engage stakeholders and promote the organisation’s mission.
• Networking and Relationship Building: Strong ability to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders. Demonstrates political acumen and a track record of influencing decision-making within Ireland’s political and regulatory environment is advantageous.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Capacity to navigate challenges, drive innovation, and maintain focus under pressure.
• Commitment to Values: Demonstrated passion for the organisation’s mission, with a strong alignment to its values and a commitment to social impact.

Equal Opportunities Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to the equality and diversity legislation in Ireland. We are committed to the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination for both our service users and employees. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or socio-economic background. We believe that diversity strengthens our team and enhances our ability to achieve our mission.

What We Offer

Joining our team comes with a range of benefits designed to support your work-life balance, personal growth, and overall well-being:

• Flexible and Hybrid Working: Enjoy a hybrid working model and flexible arrangements to suit your lifestyle.
• Generous Leave Entitlements: 25 days of annual leave.
• Pension Contributions: Company-contributed pension scheme after successful completion of your probationary period.
• Employee Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for professional and personal support.
• Peace of Mind: Comprehensive Death in Service benefit for added security.
• Purposeful Work: Be part of an organisation making a tangible societal impact on a meaningful level.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your CV along with a cover letter (approximately 400-600 words) that highlights your motivations for applying and demonstrates how your experience aligns with the requirements of this role. Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Wednesday, 19th February 2025.