Director General - IIEA
Fixed Term ContractJob Overview
The Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) is Ireland’s leading international affairs and public policy think tank. It is an independent, not‑for‑profit organisation with charitable status, renowned for its research independence, public policy expertise and convening power.
The IIEA’s purpose is to provide a trusted forum for debate and discussion on European and international affairs, and to evaluate, develop and share policy options that help shape Ireland’s strategic direction and future. Through an extensive programme of research, analysis, events and briefings, the Institute equips its members with insight, context and understanding of the key policy debates that define Ireland’s role in Europe and on the global stage.
The Institute brings together an extensive network of senior figures from government, business, diplomacy, EU institutions and civil society, attracting the highest‑level speakers, decision‑makers and thought leaders at national, European and international level. Its reputation is built on political neutrality, analytical rigour and relevance, and on its ability to convene diverse perspectives in a respectful, non‑partisan environment.
The Institute brings together an extensive network of senior figures from government, business, diplomacy, EU institutions and civil society, attracting the highest‑level speakers, decision‑makers and thought leaders at national, European and international level. Its reputation is built on political neutrality, analytical rigour and relevance, and on its ability to convene diverse perspectives in a respectful, non‑partisan environment.
The Institute is now entering an important next phase of its development, with a focus on strengthening strategic impact, organisational capability and financial sustainability, while remaining true to its core mission and service.
Following the completion of a successful term of office by the current Director General later this year, the IIEA is seeking applicants to take up the role of Director General
Role Overview:
Following the completion of a successful term of office by the current Director General later this year, the IIEA is seeking applicants to take up the role of Director General
Role Overview:
The Director General (DG) is the chief executive and public leader of the IIEA. Reporting to the Board, the DG has overall responsibility for the strategy, performance, sustainability and reputation of the Institute.
This is important role combines strategic leadership, organisational management, external engagement and commercial discipline. The Director General will lead the Institute through a period of evolution and growth, ensuring it continues to be a central platform for ideas, debate and policy insight, while strengthening its financial footing and organisational capability.
The successful candidate will be an energetic, outward‑facing leader with the credibility to operate at senior levels across public policy, business, European and International affairs, and the practical ability to run and grow a mission‑driven organisation.
Term: Up to 5 Year Fixed Term Contract
What Success Looks Like
In the early period of the appointment, success is likely to include
- A clear strategic direction agreed with the Board and actively being delivered
- Successful operational delivery, meeting the needs of members and stakeholders for depth and clarity in public policy assessment
- Enhanced financial visibility, control and sustainability
- Further progress in growing and engaging the membership base
- Strong leadership confidence and positive staff engagement
- Increased clarity of positioning and external profile for the Institute
Key Responsibilities
Strategy, Leadership and Governance
- Lead the development and delivery of a clear, compelling strategy for the Institute, providing direction, focus and momentum over the next five years.
- Overseeing the preparation, agreement and implementation of the annual IIEA Work Programme.
- Translate strategic ambition into operational priorities, organisational design and measurable outcomes.
- Work closely with the Board within an approved governance framework, operating with a high degree of autonomy while reporting appropriately on strategic, financial and reputational matters.
- Leverage the skills and experience of Board members and sub‑committees to support the Institute’s mission and long‑term sustainability.
Organisational and People Leadership
- Continue to foster a positive, inclusive and high‑performing culture that supports delivery, collaboration and accountability.
- Role model the Institute’s values.
- Evolve the organisational structure and capability mix to ensure alignment with strategy.
- Developing staff to fulfil their potential.
Financial Management and Sustainability
- Hold full accountability for the Institute’s P&L, ensuring strong financial management, transparency and control.
- Drive income growth through a combination of:
- Expansion and deepening of the membership base
- Development of project income and grants
- Stronger engagement with corporate members, government departments and embassies
- Maintain an appropriate and sustainable balance between membership income and project or grant funding.
Membership, Partnerships and External Engagement
- Articulate clear and compelling value propositions for the Institute’s membership groupings.
- Be highly visible and engaged with members and stakeholders, ensuring the Institute remains responsive, relevant and impactful.
- Build and sustain critical relationships across:
- Corporate organisations
- Irish Government and public service
- Embassies and the diplomatic community
- EU institutions, including the European Commission
- NGOs and international bodies
- Strengthen the IIEA’s position as a central hub for ideas, insight and dialogue on European and international policy.
Reputation, Profile and Policy Positioning
- Act as the public face of the IIEA, representing the Institute and it’s values in national and international forums and with the media.
- Safeguard the Institute’s strict political neutrality, ensuring it remains a trusted, independent platform for debate.
- Build on the IIEA’s strong reputation for convening senior, respected voices from across politics, public service, diplomacy and international affairs.
- Articulate clearly what the IIEA stands for as a modern think tank, and why its work matters in an increasingly complex international environment.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Experience and Capability
- A proven track record of significant results delivery at a senior level ideally in a think tank, policy, strategy, consulting or public service context, with excellent networking and influencing skills.
- Strong team leadership credentials with excellent staff engagement. communication, management and development skills.
- Strategic mindset, experienced in driving membership and revenue growth and budget management.
- Excellent knowledge of International and European affairs, policy making and its relevant stakeholders.
Leadership Style and Attributes
- Strong personal alignment with the mission, values and independence of the IIEA.
- Energetic, motivated and outward‑facing, with the drive to lead the Institute through its next phase of development.
- Astute, with excellent judgement and a strong instinct for balance and neutrality.
- A natural connector and relationship‑builder.
- Comfortable combining intellectual leadership with operational and commercial rigour.
- Ambitious, passionate, collaborative and values driven leader with an ability to lead change and drive innovation.