About MTL
Moorepark Technology Ltd (MTL) was established in 1993 to facilitate technology transfer from Teagasc to the dairy industry. It is a joint venture between Teagasc and the dairy industry. Teagasc is the majority shareholder, and nine Irish dairy processing companies hold varying tranches of the remaining shares. Today MTL is a modern pilot-plant facility containing versatile pilot-scale processing equipment. It offers a variety of services ranging from pilot plant rental and technical assistance through contract R&D and pre-commercial manufacture, and commercial manufacture.
The Dairy sector is changing, evidenced by reduced availability of milk, a shift in the geography of markets, and the impact of sustainability affecting both dairy production and processing. The expansion of alternative dairy and emerging markets requires new innovation and product reformulation. Given its international customer base, MTL is well positioned to support projects on new product development for global markets, while optimising existing and new processes for sustainable manufacture. MTL has an extensive range of equipment and expertise related to ingredient and finished product manufacturing, relevant to all food types.
MTL has recently implemented a strategic growth plan, including investing €10 million over the last five years in plant and equipment by its shareholders. This enabled MTL to provide the latest process equipment to increase innovation in an environment of significant expansion following the elimination of dairy quotas. Currently, MTL is developing a new strategic plan to further diversify its food industry offerings. This includes continued investment in Dairy processing while building hybrid processes for plant-based ingredients, new digital (sensors, internet of things, data capture), bio-transformation and sustainable processing (energy, water reuse, waste, etc.) capability.
MTL are seeking to appoint a Chief Executive to continue to develop current research-based activities and industry interaction while leading the implementation of the new MTL Strategic plan. A central part of the CEO role will be attracting new clients from the food and beverage industry, increasing global reach while providing new opportunities in processing to support the indigenous food companies within Ireland.
CEO Role
The MTL CEO is responsible for marketing and growing the MTL business in line with the business projections contained within the MTL Strategic Plan. This will require the CEO:
• To ensure that the vision and objectives of the MTL strategic plan are achieved.
• To lead the implementation of a new strategic plan using a participative change management approach.
• To expand MTL’s current capabilities and client base through the introduction of new processing infrastructure and expertise in food, including plant-based ingredients, digital platforms, biotransformation and sustainable processing (energy reduction, water reuse, by-product valorisation).
• To assist in delivering MTL's strategic direction and corporate objectives.
• To engage with the latest research and development activities through engagement with the Teagasc Head of Food Programme.
• To monitor, review and evaluate progress concerning strategic objectives and targets.
• To provide leadership to the MTL Operations team, and to carry out line management responsibilities as assigned.
• To assist in delivering MTL's strategic direction and corporate objectives.
Working with the existing Team in MTL the CEO will be accountable for:
• Overseeing the continued capital investment and modernisation of the MTL infrastructure. This will include drawing up equipment specifications and sourcing the equipment at competitive prices in line with industry norms.
• Managing MTL budgets and cash flow in line with good financial management practices, including capital and strategic development programmes.
• Ensuring strong governance and compliance with statutory and other regulations including the Companies Act 2014, the Code of Practice for Governance of State Bodies and public procurement regulations.
• Focusing on Health & Safety and Zero Harm.
• Actively engaging with existing and potential customers with a view to ensuring that MTL achieves its growth targets, and also to ensure that the MTL plant meets its customers’ current and future requirements.
• Developing, reviewing and evaluating innovative processing services for dairy and plant-based ingredients and food systems.
• Ensuring consistent quality and excellence in the delivery and impact of MTL’s pilot services.
• Providing inspirational leadership that drives exceptional performance and promotes the continuous development of MTL staff. Developing new products and services which are directly relevant to MTL current and potential customer base.
• Liaising with Teagasc and DAFM (Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine) to ensure the MTL strategy is being implemented in line with agreed DAFM sanctions. Carrying out such other duties and assignments delegated by the Board and or Chair of MTL.
* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive. It will be reviewed from time to time with the post-holder.
Person Specification
Qualifications
• Applicants must hold a relevant Level 8 degree, as recognized on the National Framework of Qualifications (QQI), in disciplines such as business, accountancy or marketing, food Science or similar.
• A relevant postgraduate qualification such as an MBA, or a postgraduate programme in the area of Leadership or Strategy would be an advantage.
Application Process
1. How to Apply
Candidates interested in applying for this post should submit the following documents to recruit@teagasc.ie no later than the closing date as noted at no. 3 below:
o Cover letter
o Up-to-date Curriculum vitae
o Key achievements form (template attached)
Incomplete applications, or applications received after the closing date/time will not be accepted.
MTL is an equal opportunities employer and is seeking to attract a balanced pool of candidates. Canvassing will disqualify.
2. Application Procedure
Candidates will be shortlisted for interview by an Expert Board on the basis of the information supplied in their Curriculum Vitae and Key Achievements Form. Candidates will be assessed against pre-determined criteria based on the requirements of the post. Candidates are therefore advised, in their own best interest, to provide a detailed, accurate and up-to-date account of their qualifications and experience. The essential requirements for the post are outlined in the Job Specification.
The admission of a candidate to a competition, or invitation to attend an interview, should not be taken as implying that the MTL Board is satisfied that the candidate fulfils the requirements for the job. It is important, therefore, that all candidates note that the onus is on the candidate to ensure they meet the eligibility requirement for the competition before attending for interview.
3. Closing Date
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 12 noon on 30th April 2025. Applications received after this time will not be considered.
4. Selection Process
The selection process will include; short-listing, interview, medical and reference checks. MTL reserve the right to request a small number of candidates to attend for a second interview.
5. Interviews
Interviews, which will be based on a competency assessment for the post, are targeted to take place in-person during the month of May 2025, subject to interview board members availability.
The onus is on all applicants who are shortlisted for interview to make themselves available for interview on the identified interview date.
Candidates for interview will be required to deliver a presentation at interview. Following notification of the outcome of the short-listing process, candidates will be provided with the title and will be requested to submit their presentation at least 1 week in advance of interview.
6. Reference Checks
Candidates who are shortlisted for interview will be required to provide the names and contact information for up to two work referees.
7. Key Terms & Conditions
a) Post Type: Five year term appointment
b) Probation: Appointment is subject to an 11 months probationary period.
c) Salary: €118,510 gross per annum. Future approved pay increases for MTL staff will apply.
d) Annual Leave. The annual leave year runs from 1 January to 31 December. Annual leave entitlement for this grade is 30 days.
e) Pension Entitlements. Applicants will be required to declare whether they have previously availed of a Public Service scheme of incentivised early retirement. Applicants will also be required to declare any entitlements to a Public Service pension benefit (in payment or preserved) from any other Public Service employment and/or where they have received a payment-in-lieu in respect of service in any Public Service employment.
8. Further Information
Further information on MTL can be accessed on the MTL website: https://www.moorepark.ie/
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