Managing Director

OverviewWe are the industry-led cluster for the micro and nano-electronics sector, uniting companies, academia, research, and government.Established in 1999, MIDAS represents the entire value chain as the sector evolves to deliver integrated electronic and software system solutions.MIDAS connects Ireland into Europe's leading clusters and supports Ireland's national semiconductor strategy.There is a significant opportunity for MIDAS to expand its scope and become one of Ireland's national clusters of significance, driving economic growth particularly in the indigenous sector.The Cluster Manager will spearhead this effort, guided by our forward-thinking culture and values.Our Strategic PrioritiesEcosystem Building – connecting the semiconductor value chain across design, research, manufacturing, and emerging areas such as advanced packaging, photonics, and quantum.Talent Development – ensuring graduate pipelines, CPD for engineers, and outreach initiatives to future-proof the workforce.Enterprise Development – supporting Irish SMEs, start-ups, and indigenous innovation within the value chain.Policy Advocacy – representing the sector nationally and at EU level, ensuring alignment with government strategy.Our ValuesNetworking and Connectivity: Curating productive relationships.Collaboration: Working with members and stakeholders to achieve common goals and promote innovation.Advocacy & Outreach: Promoting microelectronics within the Ireland ecosystem and representing members' interests.Learning: Providing educational resources and training opportunities.Diversity and Inclusion: Encouraging diversity within the industry and the organisation.Role PurposeThe Managing Director will be the most senior executive in MIDAS Ireland – and first formal employee, reporting to the Board of Directors, driving expansion of MIDAS's scope and establishing it as a national cluster of significance to drive economic growth in the indigenous sector.The Managing Director will:Provide national leadership for Ireland's semiconductor cluster.Represent the sector with government, international partners, and industry stakeholders.Drive delivery of the MIDAS 2026–2030 strategy in alignment with Ireland's National Semiconductor Strategy.Act as Network Promoter for MIDAS Skillnet, ensuring industry-led training and upskilling meets sector needs.This is a unique leadership role at the intersection of enterprise, research, and policy, pivotal to securing Ireland's position as a global hub for semiconductor innovation, talent, and enterprise growth.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & DevelopmentLead delivery of the MIDAS Ireland 2026–2030 Strategy across four pillars: Ecosystem Building, Talent Development, Enterprise Development, and Policy Advocacy.In collaboration with the Board and stakeholders, lead the development of future strategies and plans.Position MIDAS as the recognised national cluster lead in semiconductors, aligned with EU Cluster Excellence standards.Expand membership base across the full semiconductor value chain (design, manufacturing, advanced packaging, photonics, quantum, etc.).Build strong partnerships with industry bodies, academic institutions, research centres, and international clusters.Policy, Advocacy & National RepresentationRepresent MIDAS nationally and internationally on semiconductor strategy, aligning with relevant national policies.Act as a trusted policy partner to DETE, IDA, Enterprise Ireland, DFHERIS, and European stakeholders.Influence government consultations, position papers, and sector roadmaps.Talent Development & Skillnet LeadershipAct as Network Promoter for the MIDAS Skillnet, ensuring high-quality, industry-aligned training.Expand accredited programmes, apprenticeships, internships, and outreach campaigns with the Pillar Lead.Champion diversity and inclusion initiatives across STEM and semiconductor careers.Strengthen collaboration with HEIs, Skillnets, and industry to future-proof the workforce.Support scaling of Irish SMEs, start-ups, and indigenous enterprises in the semiconductor value chain.Lead access to funding initiatives (national, EU Chips JU, Horizon Europe) with the respective Pillar Leads.Support structured programmes for investor engagement, export development, and SME/MNC collaboration.Governance, Operations & SustainabilityLead and manage a professional cluster organisation with governance, operational excellence, and financial sustainability.Develop a stable funding base through membership, public funding, and partnerships.Ensure transparent financial management, risk oversight, and performance measurement.Deliver operational excellence in line with Board expectations.People Leadership & Organisational DevelopmentBuild, manage, and lead a high-performing professional team.Provide clear direction, delegation, and accountability to staff.Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative organisational culture.Ensure strong performance management, staff development, and succession planning.Essential Qualifications & ExperienceProven senior leadership experience – 7+ years in industry, government, or association management.Strong understanding of the semiconductor/microelectronics sector or adjacent deep-tech/advanced manufacturing sectors.Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement at senior levels (e.g., government, EU institutions, MNCs, academia).Experience in strategy implementation, cluster development, or sectoral policy.Track record in talent development or skills/education initiatives (preferably Skillnet, apprenticeship, or STEM programmes).Strong governance, financial management, and organisational leadership capabilities.Advanced qualifications in engineering, science, business, or policy.International experience in cluster organisations, industry associations, or EU policy engagement.Knowledge of the EU Chips Act, IPCEI, and European semiconductor landscape.Core CompetenciesStrategic Thinking & Influence – Shaping long-term strategies aligned with national policy and influencing decision-making across government, enterprise, and research.Stakeholder Leadership & Advocacy – Building high-trust relationships across diverse stakeholders.Delivering Results & Accountability – Setting ambitious goals and delivering them with transparency and impact.Enterprise & Innovation Orientation – Championing SME/start-up growth and connecting industry to research and innovation opportunities.Operational Excellence & Governance – Ensuring transparent governance and sustainable funding, leading a professional team.Communication & Representation – Excellent communicator representing Ireland's semiconductor sector nationally and internationally.Interview ProcessClosing date for applications: 7th OctoberInterviews will commence from 31st October#J-18808-Ljbffr