Skillnet Ireland is a business support agency of the Government of Ireland. Our mandate is to advance the competitiveness of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with more than 57 enterprise bodies, providing talent development, upskilling and innovative business supports to 26,600 businesses and 97,700 workers throughout the country every year. Skillnet Ireland has been recognised as an international best-practice model by the European Commission, the OECD and the ILO, among others.
Our mission is “Helping businesses in Ireland to be the best they can be, through innovative and enterprise-driven people development”. We partner directly with companies and industry groups to ensure we understand their needs and talent priorities. We also help companies understand the future of work and how to embrace innovation, driving more successful and competitive businesses.
Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Role Purpose
Skillnet Ireland is seeking to recruit a Data and Project Specialist to join the Business Networks Unit. This is a mid-level role and offers the opportunity to work across two key areas: the Performance & Evaluation team and the EU ESF+ Programme team. The successful candidate will support both the Performance & Evaluation Manager and the EU Programme Manager in delivering on the objectives of these units. The role will predominately be focused on data analytics, utilizing Skillnet Ireland’s system of record to generate insights and reports to support the delivery and evaluation of key programmes across Skillnet Ireland. The role will require: significant experience with Power BI, analysing large data sets as well as coordination of stakeholders. The successful candidate will be strategic and results-driven, willing to take initiative and able to manage a wide variety of project tasks. The role will also have an administrative function, supporting the day-to-day operations of both the Performance & Evaluation and ESF+ functions within the Business Networks Unit. This role will report into the Performance & Evaluation Manager.
Key Responsibilities

Support the Performance & Evaluation Manager with the implementation of Skillnet Ireland’s Performance & Evaluation Framework and Strategy.
d on the design and maintenance of performance dashboards and reports (e.g. Power BI) for the Executive, Board Committees, and industry partners based on requirements outlined by the P&E Manager
Assist in the development and assessment of grant applications, reviewing appraisal and grant-making processes to ensure they are effective and efficient.
Support performance review processes for Skillnet Business Networks, including data analysis and the generation of actionable insights.
Work with the EU Programme Manager to track the implementation of ESF+ projects across Skillnet Business Networks, including project evaluation, risk identification, and mitigation.
Liaise with internal teams (e.g. Business Networks, Operations, Communications) to ensure smooth operational delivery of the ESF+ programme.
Provide analytical and reporting support to the EU Programme Manager, ensuring timely and accurate submission of information to programme funders.
Provide project planning and implementation support for any ongoing projects that arise for the P&E and ESF+ functions.
Assist in the planning and delivery of ESF+ and Performance & Evaluation meetings, workshops, webinars, and events, including coordination, agenda preparation, and follow-up.
Provide general administrative support to both the Performance & Evaluation Manager and the EU Programme Manager as needed.

Essential Experience & Qualifications

3 years' experience in a data and project implementation role.
Experience working with government agencies, industry bodies, or key stakeholders.
A Level 8 (or higher) qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in Business, IT, Computer Science, or Management Information Systems.

Essential Skills

Excellent organisational and project management skills, with a solid understanding of project management methodologies.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear reports and engaging presentations.
Proficiency in data analysis and experience using Power BI or similar data visualisation tools.
Ability to source, evaluate, and present information relevant to performance, funding, or strategic topics.
Ability to communicate, present and influence credibly and effectively at all levels of the organisation, including executive level.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while paying strict attention to detail
Proficient in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and project management tools (e.g. Asana, Trello, or equivalent).

Application Details
Interested candidates should send a comprehensive CV, which outlines why you should be considered for this position. Applications can only be made using the Skillnet Ireland Careers page. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is by 1pm, Friday, August 01st, 2025.

An attractive and competitive package will be offered to the successful candidate.

Skillnet Ireland is currently operating a hybrid working model for individuals and roles that meet the business needs and the criteria of suitability.

Skillnet Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer that values equity, diversity and inclusion as we recognise the benefits it can bring to our workforce, our partners and external stakeholders.

If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Further information on Skillnet Ireland is available at www.skillnetireland.ie