Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has a vacancy for a Head of Human Resources & ICT.
The Head of Human Resources & ICT is a member of the Executive Leadership Team, which is responsible for the achievement of all business objectives as determined by the Board, and as outlined in the organisation's corporate and annual business plans. In addition, the Head of Human Resources is responsible for all matters associated with the overall management and development of the Human Resources & ICT Functions.
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Head of Human Resources & ICT is responsible for the management and direction of the Human Resources Division, for the achievement of its targets and business objectives, for the strategic development and management of key areas to support IFI in achieving its strategic corporate goals. This includes management of its human resource assets, organisational development/optimisation through the identification and implementation of progressive people orientated development policies.
Your management portfolio currently includes ICT operations, and supported by the ICT technical lead, you will be responsible for ensuring delivery of IFI’s digital, technology, and data vision. This role will lead the transformation of our IT and data capabilities, ensuring systems are efficient, secure, you will provide oversight of technology operations, data management strategies, and drive continuous improvement.
The successful candidate will be an enabler of change who will be responsible for the leadership of the strategic Human Resources & ICT functions within IFI and the implementation of a diverse range of HR & ICT programmes. These will include the alignment of the people in IFI to a changing operating model, building leadership capability, identification of talent, creation of succession plans and enhancement of employee engagement levels.
The successful candidate will have a record of continuous development and innovation in their career to date and will be required to demonstrate the highest standards of professional integrity. The successful candidate will be a self- starter possessing the necessary management and interpersonal skills and ability to lead teams in complex circumstances and will be required to take responsibility for high-level outputs and outcomes.
ABOUT US
Inland Fisheries Ireland are the environmental agency responsible for protecting, managing and conserving Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
More information can be found by visiting our website.
VISION, MISSION & VALUES
Vision
To place the inland fisheries resource in the best sustainable position possible for the benefit of future generations.
Mission
To protect, manage and conserve Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources and to maximise their sustainability and natural biodiversity.
Values
We work collaboratively with professionalism
We are open, transparent and accountable
We act with respect and integrity
We are committed to stewardship and sustainability
KEY FOCUS
Leadership and Strategic Responsibilities
Play an active role in the leadership of IFI as a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). Work closely with the Chief Executive and Heads of other functions to guide the organisation and ensure that IFI is fulfilling its vision, mission while adhering to its values.
Support the governance of the organisation, including producing or contributing to reports and presentations to the ELT, Working Groups, Board, and external stakeholders.
Work closely with the Executive Leadership Team & the Board of Directors in developing the strategic direction of IFI’s HR & ICT team capability. This includes developing annual and multi-annual strategy and implementation plans.
Work with the Board and Executive Leadership Team to communicate and promote the organisation’s work.
Manage staff and all resources.
Human Resources - Strategic
Develop and implement HR strategies, policies and programmes aligned with IFI’s goals and objectives.
Collaborate with senior management to understand business needs and develop HR initiatives that drive employee engagement, productivity, and organisational success.
Ensure that organisational change initiatives are in line with business objectives and IFI’s corporate vision and mission.
Provide oversight and high-level management of their implementation.
Develop an organisational operational structure designed to deliver on the strategic objectives of IFI. Design plans to successfully achieve implementation of the strategic objectives of IFI, including work-force-planning.
Design and implement relevant stakeholder communication plans. Foster a change culture within the organisation.
Contribute to the development and implementation of successive IFI Strategies.
Develop, coordinate and report on IFI’s Equality and Human Rights responsibilities.
Proactively lead the Human Resources Division’s contribution to ensure that IFI is effective, efficient, and relevant.
Ensure that IFI has the capability to be proactive and responsive to the needs of its stakeholders.
Human Resources - Operational
Oversee the full range of HR functions including talent acquisition, onboarding, performance management, employee relations, learning and development, compensation and benefits and HR compliance.
Contribute, as a member of the Senior Management Team, to the development and implementation of successive IFI strategies and supporting mechanisms.
Lead, motivate and manage the Human Resources Division in the delivery of excellent standards of Human Resource management and support services including staff education, development and training and the Performance Management process.
Identify opportunities for and source additional exchequer and non-exchequer funding as it applies to the Human Resources Division.
Ensure compliance with all Department of Finance, Revenue Commissioner and C&AG regulations and other relevant legislation and reporting as it applies to the Human Resources Division.
Oversee the development, maintenance, and implementation of a Risk Management culture in IFI as it applies to the Human Resources Division.
Oversee the development, maintenance, and implementation of a capability to meet Corporate Governance requirements including compliance with The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies as it applies to the Human Resources Division of IFI.
Develop, co-ordinate and oversee the implementation of IFI Human Resource strategy, to include a Learning & Development programme.
Advise and lead the Senior Management Team in the development of Human Resources systems and solutions that respond effectively to the organisation’s opportunities and challenges in the provision of services to the public and other stakeholders.
Interact with IFI’s Board and committees as required to deliver on the strategic priorities assigned.
Ensure that the assets and reputation of the organisation are properly protected and that the functions of the Head of Human Resources are discharged in accordance with legislation.
Represent IFI as required and liaise with relevant external bodies, agencies, and organisations.
Ensure a value for money approach is taken to the management of budgets and in the delivery of services throughout the Human Resources Division.
Ensure compliance with the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights requirements.
Perform such other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the CEO or nominee.
ICT
Working with the IT Manager to deliver the risk strategy to the organisation and addressing risk management issues that directly impact the operations and strategic direction of IFI.
To provide leadership and direction to the ICT Service and ensure that the service is efficient, effective and delivers value for money.
To ensure the delivery of ICT, Data and Digital strategies and advice and to develop and utilise ICT and Digital systems as a key enabler for transformational change and improvement across organisation in order that IFI is fit for purpose in meeting the challenges of the future.
Provide strategic oversight of IT infrastructure, systems, and outsourced IT providers to ensure they meet organisational needs effectively and efficiently.
Ensure robust data security, compliance, and business continuity measures are in place
General duties
Coach and develop your team to enable them to meet their full potential and to contribute effectively towards IFI’s Strategic priorities
Establish, implement, and manage the learning and development needs of your team to meet the needs of the organisation.
Managing and monitoring the relevant department budgets, using resources effectively and efficiently and taking account of financial procedures.
Keep abreast of sector data trends and developments to identify their potential to inform the achievement of organisational and operational priorities.
Undertake any other duties as may be reasonably prescribed by IFI.
The purpose of this job description is to focus on the main responsibilities of the role. The list of duties for which the postholder is responsible may, within reason, vary at the discretion of IFI.
KEY KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Qualifications
Essential
A bachelor’s degree in human resources management or a business degree which includes HR or Have a recognised professional qualification at NFQ Level 8 or equivalent in Human Resources.
A minimum 7 years’ experience in a Senior Leadership Role to include significant HR dimensions
Considerable previous experience in a relevant senior position, including relevant strategic experience and responsibility at board or senior management level.
Have a full driving licence valid in the state.
Desirable
accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
Knowledge
Essential
The ability to create people strategy
Leadership acumen and experience of using metrics for driving performance
In-depth knowledge of HR best practices, employment law and regulations
Skills
Essential
A pro-active attitude and a passion for leading with integrity
Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to address complex HR challenges and drive initiatives.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities
The ability to develop and nurture relationships across departments
The successful candidate will have a track record of influencing, operating, and implementing at a senior level, delivering a professional and results focused HR service and have experience of negotiating the complexities of transformational change.
A proven track record in the areas of organisational development, change management, leadership development and talent management.
Excellent influencing, negotiating, and networking skills at a senior level.
A track record in conflict management.
A track record in performance management.
A track record of delivering against strategic goals.
A track record of significant achievement and delivery at a senior managerial level in a large and complex services environment.
A track record and experience in the development and implementation of ICT Human Resources systems and e-business solutions.
A track record of being professional in approach, being team oriented, being consultative and decisive.
A track record of delivering against annual business plans and in budgetary development and management.
Have a high level of computer literacy with a high level of proficiency in using HRIS Systems, HR analytics and other HR technology platforms.
Can meet the travel requirements of the post including working outside of normal hours, as necessary.
Desirable
Experience in managing or delivering IT services is desirable
STANDARDS IN PUBLIC OFFICE
The Head of Human Resources & ICT shall comply fully with the relevant provisions of the Ethics in Public Office Acts 1995 and 2001.
REMUNERATION
The salary scale for the position is at the level of Principal Officer (Head of Function) as applies in Inland Fisheries Ireland, it is a 7-point scale including 2 long service increments (LSI’s):
Point 1 €104,819.29; Point 2 €109,315.88; Point 3 €113,782.32; Point 4 €118,283.22; Point 5 €122,075.61; Point 6 (LSI 1) €126,010.12; Point 7 €129,938.20
(IFI Principal Officer (Head of Function) Salary Scale as of 01/08/2025).
Candidates should note that salary will not be subject to negotiation and the rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay policy. New entrants to the public sector will start on point 1 subject to Haddington Road Agreement and subsequent Government Agreements.
LOCATION
This role will be based at IFI’s office in Citywest Business Campus Dublin D24 CK66.
TENURE
This post is offered on a permanent contract basis.
APPLICATIONS & SELECTION PROCESS
A cover letter and up to date Curriculum Vitae should be submitted by 5.00 pm on Monday 8th of September 2025.
Late applications will not be processed.
Short listing will be based on information provided in the Cover Letter and CV.
Canvassing will disqualify.
Inland Fisheries Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.