
We are hiring: Head of Policy & Operations
Job Title: Head of Policy & Operations
Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Location: Naas, Co. Kildare (Hybrid options available)
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
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Overview:
The Head of Policy & Operations will be a senior management role within County Kildare Chamber, playing a pivotal part in delivering the Chamber’s strategic goals. This leadership position requires a proactive, organised and politically astute individual who can manage core operations while advancing the Chamber’s influence through effective policy development and advocacy.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the business environment of one of Ireland’s fastest-growing regions, working directly with the CEO, board, members and stakeholders at all levels.
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Key Responsibilities:
- Policy & Public Affairs
- Lead the development and implementation of the Chamber’s policy and advocacy agenda.
- Represent the Chamber in high-level engagements with government, business leaders and regional stakeholders.
- Monitor and respond to political, economic and legislative developments.
- Draft policy submissions, consultation responses, briefing papers and position statements.
- Engage with members to ensure their views are reflected in policy outputs and consultations.
- Strategic & Organisational Support
- Provide high-level strategic support to the CEO on core projects and cross-Chamber priorities.
- Offer backup support to the CEO when required (e.g. during planned leave or key engagements).
- Contribute to implementation of the Strategic Plan and support board reporting, risk management and organisational development efforts.
- Take a lead on cross-functional initiatives that align with the Chamber’s growth and advocacy goals.
- Operational Oversight
- Support strategic coordination across internal teams, ensuring consistency in project and event delivery.
- Take responsibility for specific operational improvement projects (e.g. systems, processes, programme frameworks).
- Provide guidance and support to staff teams as needed to maintain momentum across key areas.
- Assist with continuity and decision-making during CEO absence or in exceptional circumstances.
- Member & Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders including elected officials, business groups, state agencies and NGOs.
- Engage regularly with members to identify issues, trends and opportunities.
- Represent the Chamber at public forums, events and strategic working groups.
- Collaborate with members on sector-specific policy work and strategic partnerships.
- Ad Hoc Projects & Initiatives
- Take the lead on special projects and emerging initiatives aligned with the Chamber’s evolving priorities.
- Respond flexibly to new opportunities or challenges, including public consultations, crisis response, pilot programmes or strategic partnerships.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to design and implement initiatives that enhance the Chamber’s impact and visibility.
- Support the CEO in driving innovation and continuous improvement across the organisation.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior-level policy, strategy, or operational role.
- Proven expertise in public affairs, policy development, and stakeholder engagement.
- Excellent project management, analytical, and communication skills.
- Ability to think strategically and work collaboratively across teams.
- Comfortable representing an organisation at high levels and in public forums.
Desirable:
- Experience working in or with a Chamber of Commerce, business membership organisation, or economic development agency.
- Familiarity with County Kildare’s economic environment and the Mid-East region.
- Understanding of local and national policy-making processes, particularly around business, infrastructure, and enterprise.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Hybrid working model and flexible hours.
- 25 days annual leave plus public holidays.
- Pension scheme following qualifying period.
- Professional development support.
Apply now via email, send CV and cover letter to sinead@countykildarechamber.ie.
Closing date for applications is Friday 20th June 2025