The Candidate: The successful candidate will shape and advance policies that support the growth and development of the wind energy sector, with a specific focus on the planning and consenting systems for both onshore and offshore wind.
You will be driven by the opportunity to shape national consenting policy, to provide strategic advice and to work with your members to ensure a robust, effective and supportive planning policy framework for the development of on and offshore wind energy.
You will enjoy working collaboratively with industry experts, Government officials and other relevant stakeholders.
You will be committed to helping Ireland respond to the climate emergency.
Description: Our client is Ireland's leading renewable energy representative body with over 200 members involved in wind and renewable energy development in Ireland.
They represent members with projects across the development spectrum in operation, under construction, awaiting connection, and along the whole supply chain.
Our client's members are involved in over 95% of connected and planned onshore and offshore wind projects in Ireland.
Their primary purpose is to promote the use of wind energy in Ireland, coordinating the work of their members, pooling information, and resources.
They carry out and commission research to contribute to the development of Government policy on renewable energy, and they work closely with statutory bodies and State agencies to support the growth of renewable energy and wind in particular.
They also undertake funded research projects with partners in Ireland and across the EU.
Their vision is to lead Ireland to a zero-carbon electricity system by 2035.
Key Responsibilities: You will have a key role in managing work programmes within the Policy and Research team to support the implementation of their strategy for 2022-2025.
You will: Lead the development of policy to promote wind energy and other enabling technologies in Ireland and at European level, and represent them in interactions with Government agencies, policymakers, members, and other stakeholders.
Monitor policy developments relating to consenting renewable energy and grid, and proactively identify key opportunities, risks, and issues relating to the wind energy industry for reporting to the senior leadership team.
Take a lead role in initiating, building, and maintaining effective relationships with senior stakeholders in the relevant Government departments (DHLGH and DECC) and State bodies such as An Bord Pleanla, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Office of the Planning Regulator, the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, and relevant statutory consultees.
Collaborate with other Policy and Research team members and WEI members through the coordination of committee meetings, working groups, and policy forums, and in leading consultation responses and position papers.
Lead on developing their wind farm database, ensuring this is up to date and using this data to generate industry-leading analysis.
Champion their research activities through leading the production of evidence-based papers and policy documents, while managing consultants and supporting the translation of their evidence base into policy and practice.
Manage and support direct reports in the Policy and Research team, fostering a positive environment and enabling continuous learning and development.
Assist the senior leadership team with preparation of status updates and reports to highlight progress with implementing strategic goals for their Board and Council.
Required Criteria: A legal, planning, environmental, or energy-related third-level qualification.
An enthusiastic and high-calibre candidate with a minimum of 4 years experience working in a planning, policy or research role.
Knowledge of Irish planning and environmental policy, particularly in relation to the energy and electricity sectors in Ireland.
Experience in an advocacy environment, with a clear understanding of Irish and European current affairs and political systems.
Experience in managing teams and/or large projects or programmes of work.
Advanced written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, succinct reports and presentations that communicate complex ideas effectively.
Experience of establishing and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Able to motivate, empower, and collaborate with others, promoting a culture where others feel ownership.
A demonstrated ability to make sound decisions and meet deadlines, with a strong track record of success.
Work Environment: They pride themselves on being a good employer, creating a people-focused company, developing teams, enhancing roles, and supporting its people.
They are committed to a positive progressive culture that facilitates a great work environment.
The office is based in Co. Kildare.
Flexible working arrangements are accommodated, and staff are required to be available to attend meetings and/or work from the office when needed.
Staff are also required to be available to attend conferences and policy forums (typically 4-5 events annually).
Benefits: 23 annual leave days and 4 company days, plus an option to buy back an additional 3 days annual leave each year.
A healthcare scheme provided by VHI.
A pension scheme with employer contributions.
Income protection insurance for staff.
Hybrid and flexible working.
Supportive maternity & paternity schemes and parents leave.
An Employee Assistance Programme.
A competitive sick pay scheme.
Phone and laptop, along with home office equipment.
Mileage at standard civil service rates.