National Lead

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and motivated professional to join the Libraries Development team as National Lead – Skills for Life Co-ordinator.

The successful candidate will lead the coordination, development and implementation of national initiatives that support adult literacy, numeracy and digital literacy through Ireland’s public library network. Working closely with local authorities, government departments, national agencies and community partners, the postholder will play a key role in delivering objectives under the Adult Literacy for Life Strategy and the National Public Library Strategy 2023-2027.

This is a high-profile role requiring exceptional project management, stakeholder engagement and communication skills, alongside a passion for lifelong learning, community development and public service.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the development, implementation and evaluation of the national Skills for Life programme.
• Support the delivery of key actions under national library and adult literacy strategies.
• Liaise with government departments, local authorities, agencies and project partners to develop and deliver national initiatives.
• Manage national networks, working groups and steering committees.
• Provide secretariat support, including meeting coordination, agenda preparation and reporting.
• Coordinate grant funding programmes, budget administration and financial reporting.
• Organise workshops, webinars, conferences, launches and national events.
• Develop communications and awareness campaigns to promote programme objectives.
• Research emerging trends and best practice in libraries, literacy, lifelong learning and digital inclusion.
• Support libraries in addressing literacy, numeracy and digital literacy needs within communities.
• Develop resources, referral pathways and targeted programmes for hard-to-reach groups.
• Monitor programme outcomes and prepare reports for stakeholders and funding bodies.
• Supervise and support assigned team members as required.

Essential Requirements

• Third-level qualification in a relevant discipline.
• Significant experience in programme, project or service coordination.
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and building effective partnerships.
• Strong planning, organisational and project management skills.
• Experience managing budgets, grants or public funding programmes.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Strong IT and digital communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Desirable Experience

• Experience within the public sector, local government, education, libraries, community development or lifelong learning sectors.
• Knowledge of adult literacy, numeracy, digital inclusion or community outreach programmes.
• Experience leading national or regional initiatives.
• Experience coordinating events, training programmes and communication campaigns.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and Collaboration
• Strategic Planning and Delivery
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Communication and Influencing
• Analysis and Problem Solving
• Project and Programme Management
• Organisational Awareness
• Results Focus and Accountability

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead impactful national programmes.
• Meaningful work supporting literacy, learning and inclusion across communities.
• Public sector terms and conditions.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Collaborative and supportive working environment.