Posted on by Michael Fay in Chamber News, Member News

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:

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.
  1. 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.

 

  1. 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