Project Manager

ABOUT ÓIR NA FARRAIGE

Óir na Farraige is at the forefront of regenerative ocean farming, combining innovation in seaweed aquaculture with cutting-edge research on biodiversity, ecosystem enhancement, and sustainable blue economy practices. Our mission is to scale regenerative ocean farming in Ireland and Europe, delivering solutions that address climate change, food security, and marine ecosystem restoration. We are currently coordinating two EU-funded flagship projects supported by EMFAF and EIT Food, alongside an international consortium of universities, NGOs, and marine innovators. This ambitious project will deliver the regenerative ocean farming in Irish Waters. Aim developing best-practice models for biodiversity monitoring and produce decision-support frameworks to guide Europe's sustainable aquaculture transition. This is an exciting opportunity to join a pioneering team and play a leading role in delivering one of Europe's most ambitious regenerative ocean projects.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

An experienced project leader who can bring structure, drive, and strategic vision to a complex, multipartner EU-funded project. You will thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and be motivated by delivering measurable impact for climate action, sustainable food systems, and ocean health. You should be:

• A proven project manager, ideally with EU grant or consortium project experience.
• Skilled at coordinating multiple partners across jurisdictions, ensuring compliance and timely delivery.
• Confident in handling financial, administrative, and reporting requirements for European projects.
• Comfortable engaging with diverse stakeholders – from marine scientists and government bodies to community groups and EU institutions.
• Passionate about sustainability, ocean innovation, and regenerative farming.
• Organized and detail-oriented, with strong leadership skills and the ability to navigate challenges.

LOCATION The project team is based in Galway, Ireland, but hybrid working arrangements are suitable. Occasional travel within Ireland and to European partner locations may be required.

CONTRACT DURATION

This is a full-time, three-year contract aligned with project funding, with the goal of the role continuing as Óir na Farraige expands.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

As Project Manager, you will be responsible for the delivery of the two Eu Funded projects on behalf of Óir na Farraige, acting as the key point of contact with the European Commission, EIT Food, and consortium partners. Your role will include:

Project & Consortium Management

• Lead day-to-day delivery of SEAGROW, ensuring alignment with EMFAF and EIT funding agreements.
• Act as the main liaison with European Commission Project Officers and the EIT Food Secretariat.
• Convene and manage steering committees, partner meetings, and internal reviews.
• Oversee financial claims, progress reports, and compliance with EU audit requirements.
• Manage procurement processes and ensure audit-ready records.
• Monitor project risks, timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Distribute payments and track budget allocations across partners.

Project Execution

• Support the development of technical deliverables, including lifecycle assessments, biodiversity reports, and stakeholder mapping.
• Coordinate communication outputs such as policy briefs, press releases, and school outreach.
• Lead delivery of workshops, accelerator programmes, and knowledge-sharing events across Europe.

Marine Operations & Business Support

• Assist with alignment between project activities and Óir na Farraige's marine operations.
• Track procurement needs, logistics, and contractor coordination for seaweed farm deployment.
• Provide support to senior management, including financial administration and reporting.
• Contribute to the preparation of high-quality applications for future EU and international funding opportunities, ensuring alignment with Óir na Farraige's strategic goals.
• Support senior management in exploring new business models, partnerships, and growth opportunities that build on SEAGROW outcomes
• Support the development and implementation of project management protocols, strengthening Óir na Farraige's capacity to deliver future projects.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE WE VALUE

We recognise that no one will tick every box, and we encourage applications from candidates with a mix of experience, skills, and ambition. The following qualities will help you thrive in this role:

• Experience in project management, ideally with multi-partner or international projects.
• Familiarity with EU-funded or other large grant-funded initiatives.
• Strong financial and administrative management abilities, including reporting and compliance.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the confidence to present to diverse audiences.
• A relevant third-level qualification (e.g. project management, marine/environmental science, engineering, public administration, or related discipline).
• Proficiency in project management tools and collaboration platforms (e.g. SharePoint, Teams).

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE AND ATTRIBUTES THAT WOULD BE AN ADVANTAGE

• Experience with EU programmes such as Horizon Europe, EMFAF, or Interreg.
• Knowledge of aquaculture, regenerative ocean farming, or marine biodiversity.
• Formal project management qualification
• Experience managing public procurement under EU/national rules.
• Understanding of the policy and funding landscape for climate and marine projects
• Experience in preparing successful grant applications, tenders, or investment proposals.
• Ability to contribute to strategic planning and the scaling of innovative business models.
• Self-motivated and resilient, with a 'can-do' approach to challenges.

WHY JOIN ÓIR NA FARRAIGE?

• Work on a flagship European project that will shape the future of regenerative aquaculture.
• Be part of a mission-driven organisation committed to ocean health and climate action.
• Collaborate with international partners across science, policy, and industry.
• Opportunities for professional development and international exposure.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Competitive salary aligned with experience.
• Employer pension contributions
• Join a team that gets things done — with professionalism and impact.

NEXT STEPS

If this opportunity excites you and you'd like to play a leading role in shaping the future of regenerative ocean farming, we'd love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with the position to gareth@oirnafarraige.com

Applications close on 30/09/2025 Óir na Farraige is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

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