Summary of the role
This is a unique opportunity to lead Ireland’s national organisation supporting children, young people and adults with dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder), helping to shape a future where every person with DCD is understood, supported and empowered to reach their potential.
As CEO, you will have the opportunity to influence policy, expand services, strengthen partnerships and champion the needs of thousands of individuals and families across Ireland. You will lead an organisation with a strong reputation, a passionate team, committed stakeholders and an ambitious vision for growth.
About the Role
This is a pivotal moment for Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland.
As Chief Executive Officer, you will lead the organisation through an exciting period of innovation and development. Working closely with the Board of Directors, staff team, funders, partners and the wider DCD community, you will shape and deliver the next phase of the organisation’s strategy and impact.
This is a dynamic role that combines strategic leadership with meaningful operational involvement. In a small but ambitious national charity, the CEO has the opportunity to influence direction, build relationships, develop services and see first-hand the difference their work makes.
We offer flexibility in how and where the work is delivered. The role will suit someone who values autonomy, purpose, trust and the opportunity to shape the future of a national organisation.
Responsibilities of the role
Key Responsibilities
The CEO will be responsible for:
- Leading the organisation day to day, ensuring services are delivered effectively for people with dyspraxia/DCD, families, professionals, and the wider community.
- Supporting governance, financial oversight, risk management and clear Board reporting.
- Managing and strengthening the relationship with the HSE, including funding, reporting, service delivery commitments and issue resolution.
- Identifying and developing sustainable funding sources, including grants, public funding, partnerships, corporate support and income-generating opportunities.
- Leading, supporting and prioritising the work in a practical and focused way.
- Representing Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland as a credible voice with public bodies, advocacy networks, education, health, employers and community stakeholders.
The Person We are Looking For
We are looking for a practical, resilient and mission-led leader.
The right person will understand that leading a small charity requires both strategic judgement and a willingness to do the work directly. They will be comfortable writing proposals, preparing reports, resolving operational issues, managing stakeholders and supporting the team.
They will be credible with public sector stakeholders, particularly the HSE, and able to manage complex relationships constructively and professionally. They will also bring strong judgement, clear communication, financial awareness and the ability to prioritise limited resources.
Requirements
Essential Experience and Skills
- Proven experience in senior leadership within the non-profit, health, or social care sector.
- Strong track record in advocacy, policy influence, and stakeholder engagement.
- Strong hands-on delivery skills, with a willingness to take personal ownership
- Good governance, financial oversight and Board reporting skills.
- Strong communication, negotiation and relationship management skills.
- Commitment to inclusion and to improving support for people with dyspraxia/DCD and other neurodivergent conditions.
Highly Desirable
- Experience working with or alongside the HSE or another statutory body.
- Knowledge of dyspraxia/DCD, neurodiversity or disability services.
- Experience in digital transformation and service innovation.
- Established network within health, education, and social policy sectors.
- Ability to lead complex projects and manage change effectively.
Placeholder
About Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland
Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland is the national charity dedicated to supporting people with dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder throughout their lives.
We provide information, advocacy, education, training, clinical services and community-based supports to individuals, families, educators, clinicians, employers and organisations across Ireland. Through our work, we raise awareness, challenge barriers, influence policy and promote greater understanding and inclusion for neurodivergent people.
Demand for our services continues to grow, creating exciting opportunities to expand our impact and reach more people than ever before.
Placeholder
If you are an inspiring leader who combines strategic thinking with a practical, hands-on approach, and who wants to make a genuine difference in people’s lives, we would love to hear from you.
Please submit your application via email to [email protected]
Closing Date: 30 September 2026
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