Executive Director, Grade 3 - Support Division
SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority of Ireland, was established on 27 October 2013 and its mission is to fund, co-ordinate and monitor a range of Further Education and Training (FET) provisions that is responsive to the needs of learners and employers. It is an agency of the recently formed Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. SOLAS works in close collaboration with Education and Training Boards (ETBs) across Ireland on provision of high-quality further education and training, equipping learners with relevant skills and knowledge, and providing a pipeline of talent into employment and to the Irish economy and society.
The Executive Director will be an integral part of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, and play a major role in driving operational performance and internal transformation within SOLAS, heading up the Support Division. This division is focused on supporting effective operations across the organisation and facilitating wider digital, funding, and people transformation roadmaps across the FET system. It will comprise individual Directorates covering People; Finance; IT & Digital; and Research, Future Skills Needs, Statistics and Risk. The successful candidate will be an innovative individual with the capacity to oversee delivery of key corporate services and internal change.
This is a permanent position for which the salary scale ranges from €166,473 to €190,435 per annum (inclusive of two long service increments) for a 35-hour week. Starting pay will be at the minimum point of the scale as per Government Circular E100/8/82. Exceptional circumstances may apply for candidates with current service in the Civil/Public service.
SOLAS offers an excellent benefit package including a contributory pension scheme and the opportunity for further training and development.
Applications, using the SOLAS Application Form, quoting reference number 573, should be e-mailed to nicola.bell@solas.ie. Please complete the application form as specified. CVs will not be accepted.
The closing date is 12pm (noon), Friday, 18 July 2025.
573 Role Specification
A Blended Working policy is in place and an arrangement is available to request with this role, a minimum requirement of 2 days per week in the office (Castleforbes House, Dublin 1). One of the days being the SOLAS Anchor Day - Wednesday.
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in writing the application form could result in being excluded from the competition.
Please note that as a public sector employee, you must reside in the Irish jurisdiction to avail of blended working, and in accordance with Department Public Expenditure and Reform (DPENDR) requirements, you must be available to attend in person if and when required.
SOLAS is an equal opportunities employer. In line with the Employment Equality Acts 1998 – 2015, SOLAS is committed to equality of treatment for all those who engage with its recruitment, selection and appointment processes. Candidates from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Canvassing will disqualify.