Physical Activity

About CroíCroí is an award-winning, not-for-profit, Irish Heart & Stroke Foundation based in Galway (Registered Charity NumberOurvisionis an end to premature death or disability from cardiovascular disease in Ireland.Ourmissionis to prevent heart disease and stroke, save lives, and empower and support people, families, communities, and future generations to take control of their health and well-being.Since its genesis in ****, Croí has developed an expertise in cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention, early detection and intervention, and built a dynamic and energetic multi-disciplinary team, committed to excellence in all areas of our work, which has been recognised by a variety of national and international healthcare and innovation awards.We are recruiting an Exercise Professional for the role ofPhysical Activity & Exercise Coordinator(Physiotherapist or Exercise for Health Specialist or similar).Applications are invited from people who are passionate about working to prevent heart disease and stroke by supporting people to embrace physical activity and exercise as part of their lives.Join us and make a real difference in the area of heart disease and stroke prevention and support, while working with a dynamic and progressive organisation.If you want to work with an organisation thatbelieveswhat you believe, is moved by the power ofpurpose,caresabout helping and supporting people, has greatideas, and ispassionateabout your future professional growth, we would love to hear from youThe RoleExercise and physical activity are central to Croí's mission to prevent heart disease and stroke.From programme delivery to public campaigns, they are at the heart of our work.As we expand our cardiac and stroke recovery programmes, we are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic full-timeExercise Professional (Physiotherapist or Exercise for Health Specialist)to join our multi-disciplinary Health Team.The successful candidate will lead the delivery, development, and evaluation of Croí's exercise services and resources, focusing on integrating movement into the daily lives of our community.This is a dynamic role for someone passionate about patient advocacy and prevention.Key responsibilities include:Designing and delivering exercise classesSupporting heart disease and stroke risk factor screeningContributing to public awareness campaigns and researchEngaging with local and national service discussionsProviding clinical input and leadershipA holistic understanding of exercise in both health and disease is essential.Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of how physical activity prevents heart disease and stroke, and how it supports rehabilitation in both primary and secondary prevention.Confidence in tailoring programmes to individual needs while promoting long-term wellbeing is vital.We are looking for a motivated, collaborative professional with initiative, strong communication skills, and a commitment to improving cardiovascular health.The role is based at the Croí Heart & Stroke Centre, Newcastle, Galway, but flexible working arrangements, based around programme delivery, may be available dependent on business need.Principal Duties & ResponsibilitiesLead and develop Croí's physical activity and exercise services, addressing the needs of people living with heart disease or stroke, their families and carersDeliver assessment and management for participants in Croí exercise programmes (in-person and online), including classes and specialist programmes such as Rebuild and Healthy Hearts ClubIdentify and implement service improvements aligned with Croí's prevention missionManage programme data and documentation to support evaluation, performance review, and adherence to current guidelinesCoordinate and deliver public health promotion sessions and exercise classesOversee and maintain exercise resourcesEmbed behaviour change strategies, including graded mastery and self-monitoring, into service deliveryContribute to team education, training, and knowledge sharingBuild and maintain relationships with acute and community healthcare partnersEngage with local and national bodies on service development and health priorities, including the Cardiac Rehabilitation Model of CareCommit to ongoing professional development with mentoring and support from CroíSkills & CompetenciesThe post holder will be required to:Demonstrate strong knowledge of heart disease and stroke prevention and managementConduct comprehensive fitness assessments, including heart rate calculations and exercise toleranceAdapt exercise prescriptions to individual needsApply evidence-based reasoning and problem-solvingCommunicate clearly with participants and colleaguesWork independently and collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teamsLead and coordinate exercise and activity servicesShow initiative, motivation, confidence, and flexibilityUtilise IT tools (Email, Word, PowerPoint, Databases) effectivelyEssential RequirementsThe post holder must be suitably qualified as follows:Physiotherapist – CORU registrationExercise for Health Specialist/Exercise Professional – REPs Ireland certification in Long Term Conditions Exercise Instructor category or equivalentBe at least 5 years post-registration/certification with at least 3 years' relevant experienceDemonstrated experience designing and delivering safe, effective exercise programmes for people with long-term conditions (e.g. cardiovascular, stroke, chronic diseases)Have the professional, managerial and administrative capacity to fulfil the functions of the roleHave experience in service evaluation or clinical auditRemunerationAn attractive and competitive remuneration package, commensurate with experience, is available for the right candidate.This is a full-time position being offered initially as a fixed-term contract of one year with potential for extension.Non-pay benefits include:Supportive and positive team environment, with full induction providedOngoing learning, training and professional development opportunitiesAttractive annual leave entitlement plus 2 concession days on Good Friday and Christmas EveAutomatic enrolment in the new Government initiative pension savingsGold Certified Cycle Friendly Employer (EU Initiative)Supports for sustainable commuting, including Bike to Work Scheme, onsite showers, changing facilities and lockersFree onsite parking and EV charging pointsEmployee Assistance ProgrammeTo apply, please send your CV, with a cover letter, to by Wednesday, September 24thA desktop shortlisting process may be carried out prior to the interview stage.Attendance at the interview will be at the candidate's own expense.This job profile will be subject to review in accordance with service developments and is neither restrictive nor definitive, but rather a guide to the general range of duties required.