The Policy Officer will: 

• Monitor and analyse developments in national and European policy, identifying issues of relevance to education, training, youth, sport and related sectors. 
• Provide policy advice, briefings and written contributions to support engagement with Government Departments and EU-level processes, particularly in the context of the EU Council Presidency. 
• Coordinate responses to requests from Government Departments, including policy inputs and briefing documentation, often within tight timeframes. 
• Draft policy papers, submissions, briefing notes and background materials in line with standards and Léargas’ approach.  
• Work collaboratively with teams to ensure policy positions are informed by programme evidence, research (youth, education, adult ed, VET etc) and beneficiary stories. 
• Support the preparation of policy-relevant data, analysis and reports to inform National and European discussions. 
• Assist with the integration of recent research findings (youth sector, youth volunteering, adult ed, VET) and programme insights into policy engagement and communications. 
• Represent Léargas as required at meetings, events and policy forums. 
• Provide flexible policy and engagement support to the Senior Management team and Executive Director in response to emerging priorities during the Presidency period. 

Essential Criteria  

• A degree or equivalent qualification or commensurate experience, in public policy, social policy, education / training / youth policy, European studies or a related discipline. 
• A minimum of two years’ relevant experience in a policy development, policy analysis or research role. 
• Proven experience in preparing policy documents, briefings and written submissions. 
• Understanding of national policy processes and familiarity with European policy frameworks.