▷ (1/31/2025 A) Policy and Research Analyst

The Western Development Commission (WDC) is a statutory body whose role is to promote the social and economic development of the Western Region of Ireland. The WDC works with a range of stakeholders to support sustainable and inclusive growth in the region and has a strong track record of delivering impactful initiatives and programmes.

Culture of the WDC:

At the WDC, we are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment where employees can thrive and make a difference. Our culture is defined by teamwork, innovation, and a deep sense of purpose. We value diversity, respect for different perspectives, and a willingness to learn and grow. If you are passionate about making a difference in the Western Region of Ireland and want to be part of a dynamic and collaborative team, we encourage you to apply for this role.

Purpose of Role:

The Policy and Research Analyst plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the West and North-Western region. This is a dynamic and challenging position, offering the opportunity to conduct impactful policy research and analysis to inform decisions and advocate for meaningful change. Reporting to the CEO, the Analyst will use quantitative and qualitative tools to evaluate policy, develop strategic responses, and deliver insights to support the region’s growth and development.

Key Responsibilities

- Policy Analysis and Research

- Conduct economic modelling, forecasting, and policy analysis using advanced data tools and techniques.

- Undertake both desk-based and field research to evaluate regional and national policy issues.

- Prepare detailed reports, policy submissions, and briefings to highlight issues relevant to the West and North-Western region.

- Strategic Insight and Communication

- Develop strategic responses to emerging policy issues under tight deadlines.

- Contribute to briefing and advising senior staff, including the CEO, on economic and social policy matters.

- Draft media articles, op-eds, and communications to influence public rhetoric and discourse.

- Stakeholder Engagement

- Act as a subject matter expert.

- Liaise with public service policy professionals, sectoral stakeholders, and policy advocates.

- Build and maintain a strong network of contacts to foster collaboration and partnerships.

- Programme Delivery and Reporting

- Coordinate and deliver a programme of policy research, including commissioning and conducting projects.

- Disseminate findings and publications through appropriate channels, including seminars, conferences, and media outlets.

- Attend and report on policy-related meetings and events, providing actionable insights.

- Event Support and Promotion

- Support the development and delivery of seminars and conferences focused on social and economic policy matters.

- Promote the organisation’s policy outputs across relevant forums.

This role requires occasional attendance at external events, including conferences, seminars, and stakeholder meetings. The successful candidate should demonstrate flexibility, adaptability, and a passion for advancing the social and economic wellbeing of the West and North-Western region.

Knowledge & Experience

Applicants must have the following:

- 3 years plus proven experience in policy analysis, economic research, or a related role.
- Third level qualification, at minimum level 8 in public policy, political science, or a related field.
- Familiarity with regional development, economic trends, and public policy frameworks.
- Analytical and Research Expertise: Proficient in using quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analysis tools, and economic modelling techniques.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to synthesize large volumes of information, think strategically, and develop actionable insights quickly.
- Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for drafting reports, submissions, and public-facing articles, including op-eds.
- Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, deliver under tight deadlines, and ensure high-quality outputs.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain effective relationships with partners, stakeholders, and policymakers.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to research, ensuring accuracy and credibility in all outputs.
- Strong planning skills: An ability to multi-task, work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Hold a PHD or Masters in public policy, political science, or a related field.
- Data storytelling.
- A good aesthetic eye and ability to shape images, visuals and formatting, and to liaise confidently with designers.
- Knowledge of regional development.
- Knowledge of the Western Region.

For effective performance at this level, the candidate will need to demonstrate that they possess the key competencies for effective performance at Higher Executive Officer level:

- Judgment, Analysis & Decision Making
- Management & Delivery of Results
- Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Specialist Knowledge, Expertise and Self Development
- Drive & Commitment to Public Service Values

All appointments are subject to the Western Development Commission Act 1998 and staff must agree to the WDC Code of Business Conduct under the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies.

The appointment will be for a full-time, permanent position, subject to a probationary period as specified in the employment contract. Candidates must satisfactorily complete a twelve-month probationary period before the permanent appointment can be confirmed. Notwithstanding the above, this will not preclude an extension of the probationary contract if performance dictates the same.

Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will hold a full driving license and have access to transport as this post will involve travel nationally in support of the seven county Western Region. When absent from home and your designated office location on official duty, you will be paid accordingly.

The salary scale for this post will be equivalent to that of the Civil Service Higher Executive Officer Standard Scale:

Personal Pension Contribution (PPC) Pay Rate: The salary for this position, with effect from 1st October 2024 is as follows:

¹ After 3 years satisfactory service at the maximum.
² After 6 years satisfactory service at the maximum.

Please note: The starting salary for the person appointed to this post will be the first point on the above scale unless the successful application has previous public sector experience as per circular 08/2019.

Remote First:

At the WDC, we follow the Government’s / our parent Department’s guidance in extending remote working to all employees. In order to provide flexibility and opportunities for dynamic collaboration and work / life balance. We believe in harnessing technology to drive innovation and maximize efficiency, empowering our team to thrive in a flexible work environment. We promote in-person collaboration and attendance at our offices located in Sligo, Galway, Letterkenny and Ballaghaderreen, when it is required or warranted. New staff or those on probation may initially work on-site more frequently until completing role induction, as decided by their manager or the CEO.

APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS

How to Apply:

- Please specify the position you are applying for in the email subject line (i.e. Policy Analyst), if you are applying for multiple roles, list your preferences in the cover letter. If no preference is stated, we will decide the best fit based on the details supplied in your application.
- As part of the application process, you will be required to submit the following documentation:
- a) A comprehensive CV detailed as relevant to the position (no longer than three pages)
- b) A short cover letter/ personal statement (no more than one page) outlining why you wish to be considered for the post and where you believe your skills and experience meet the requirements for the position.
- We request that both documents are submitted in a single Word document or PDF where possible.

Please note that omission of any or part of the two requested documents, as set out above, will render the application incomplete. Incomplete applications will not be considered for the next stage of the selection process.

If you do not receive an acknowledgement of receipt of your application within two working days of applying, please email info@wdc.ie.

Closing Date:

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 5th February 2025 at 12pm.

First-round interviews for the position will be held during the week commencing 17th February 2025 with second-round interviews scheduled for the week commencing 24th February 2025.

The WDC is an equal opportunities employer

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