Purpose of the role 

The Head of Advocacy and Engagement works closely with the CEO and is responsible for the strategic leadership of external matters at Volunteer Ireland. The focus of the position is on advocacy, oversight of communications, and engagement with key stakeholders such as the Volunteer Centres and corporate partners. The post-holder has responsibility for managing a team and being part of setting a supportive and inclusive culture in line with Volunteer Ireland’s values. As a senior leader in a small organisation, they will be required to delegate and oversee the work of team members, as well as deliver key elements of their areas of responsibility. They will be required to work independently and pro-actively to contribute to strategic and operational matters across the organisation. 

Person specification 

The ideal candidate will have a background in advocacy or public affairs, together with some experience in communications and stakeholder engagement. The post-holder will be a strategic thinker who is willing and able to deliver on operational matters as part of a small and ambitious team. They will be expected to take a leading role in Volunteer Ireland, work independently and collaboratively, and drive our mission. 

They will be good at building relationships externally, managing partnerships and bringing internal and external stakeholders on board. They will be skilled at managing a varied and dynamic team and have the ability to influence with empathy and assertiveness. 

Read the full Head of Advocacy and Engagement Job Description.