Administrative, Professional and Technical
Overview
As part of the Local Authority structure, Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) provide advice, information and a range of support services to individuals starting up or growing a business. With 31 dedicated teams across Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices offer a wide range of services designed to promote and support enterprise at a local level. LEO Fingal is seeking a Senior Enterprise Development Officer, who will be required to perform a wide range of duties as appropriate to the position.
Background and the Role
The Senior Enterprise Development Officer (SEDO) is a specialist role within the Local Enterprise Office in Fingal. The SEDO will facilitate the delivery of a high standard quality system of co-ordinated and cohesive State support to the micro and small business sector. The successful candidate will be required to make a significant contribution to the implementation of a strategic plan to support enterprise, entrepreneurship and job creation at a local level. Success will be measured by the impact of LEO supports provided to small businesses and the extent to which micro business and start-ups in the region are developed.
The position will be whole-time and permanent. The appointee will be prohibited from engaging in or having any connection with any outside business or activity that would interfere with the performance of the duties of the position and/or lead to a conflict of interest.
The primary role of the Senior Enterprise Development Officer is to support the Head of Enterprise in Fingal, in the management of operations and in the achievement of the LEO’s business goals.
Reporting directly to the Head of Enterprise in Fingal, responsibilities to be discharged by the Senior Enterprise Development Officer may include:
* Assist Local Enterprise Office Fingal in the generation and maintenance of a culture of enterprise.
* Researching, organising, promoting and managing a range of business development training and supports to meet the needs of the small business sector in the county.
* Co-ordination of Mentor services to business owner/managers.
* Providing Business Advice and Counselling to start-up and expanding businesses.
* Assisting in the preparation and execution of the LEO’s training plans.
* Administration of business supports budget and managing various programmes and enterprise initiatives.
* Organisation of seminars and information events aimed at raising enterprise awareness.
* Updating websites, using social media for business promotion and information dissemination purposes.
* Establish and maintain strategic alliances and close exchanges with other business support agencies and a wide range of institutions.
* Working with the Student Enterprise Co-ordinator to ensure the effectiveness of the Student Enterprise Programme.
* Administer, assess and present grant applications for approval to the Evaluation & Approvals Committee and Enterprise Ireland.
* Manage and update the online database, recording performance in keeping with the requirements of the LEO and Enterprise Ireland.
* Deal appropriately with queries from members of the public and co-ordinate business clinics.
* Monitor and measure the performance of the LEO, elicit feedback from clients in a structured manner, prepare reports on same and ensure metrics targets are met.
* Manage and oversee approved procurement processes for the LEO.
* Co-ordinate and monitor external contracts placed by the LEO.
The Senior Enterprise Development Officer will also:
* Ensure the Head of Enterprise is fully informed of operational and performance activities and overall team progress.
* Represent the Head of Enterprise at functions/client activity in their absence.
* Other duties required to contribute to the successful management of the LEO services may be assigned from time to time by the Head of Enterprise and/or other nominated members of the LEO management team.
Qualifications and requirements of the post
Character
Each candidate must be of good character.
Health
Each candidate must be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.
Education, training, experience, etc.
Each candidate must, on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms:
* Have a good educational background. A third level and/or professional qualification in a business or financial discipline is highly desirable.
* Have at least 4 years relevant work experience in a business environment and/or in a business support/development organisation.
* Have strong business acumen with experience that demonstrates an understanding of the small and micro business environment in Ireland and the needs and requirements of owner-managers of small business.
* Have a satisfactory knowledge of LEO supports, services and processes and the range of public and private supports available to small enterprise in Ireland.
* Have sound commercial awareness and strong business planning, evaluation & research skills.
* Be familiar with the preparation of accounts and interpretation of financial information.
* Have strong project management skills.
* Have strong interpersonal, report writing, presentation and communication skills.
* Be proficient in the use of relevant up to date IT applications and knowledge of new technologies.
* Have experience of working effectively and efficiently on own initiative.
* Have the ability to prepare and present reports in a structured and professional manner.
Personal Profile
Candidates should:
* Have excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
* Have strong persuasive skills.
* Be able to plan own work schedule and enjoy working on own initiative.
* Be results orientated.
* Be well organised with the ability to keep records and present progress reports as required.
Other requirements of the post
* Car-owner with a full driving licence.
* Willing to work outside regular office hours when necessary.
Further information is available in the Candidate Information Booklet available on our website.
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