*Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are interested in this role. Applications should be sent to hr@fit.ie by 22nd August 2025

About Us:

FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology) is a representative organisation of the technology sector committed to growing Ireland’s tech talent pipeline. Working in close collaboration with national education and training provision, national and regional development agencies and community organisations, FIT’s mission is to promote an inclusive and sustainable smart economy, ensuring access to in-demand tech skills for quality employment and shared prosperity. In doing so, we are maximising opportunity through technology and making technology work for all. We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and the circular economy, and we are looking for a passionate and visionary leader to join our team.

Job Summary:

The Head of Innovation and Development will lead cross-functional initiatives across the FIT organisation with vision, passion, and empathy. This role involves serving as the strategic lead for the financial support structure, ensuring a steady stream of resources for FIT’s broader initiatives and growth. The successful candidate will maintain strong relationships with funders at local, regional, and national levels, as well as with key stakeholders and partners.

Key Responsibilities:

· Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet FIT’s financial goals in consultation with the CEO and SMT.

· Pursue and develop substantial project/funding partnerships supporting FIT Diversity and Inclusion priorities.

· Cultivate and maintain relationships with key donors, sponsors, and philanthropic organisations.

· Design and develop programme structures to deliver successful diversity, inclusion, and circular economy initiatives.

· Allocate budgetary resources effectively to support programme operations and activities.

· Oversee the recruitment, engagement, and supervision of allocated staff.

· Report to the CEO and SMT on the day-to-day operations of these programmes.

· Develop evaluation frameworks and methodologies to assess programme outcomes and impact.

· Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.

· Provide leadership support, advice, and mentoring to the Tech Apprentice Employer Recruitment Team.

· Manage the feedback and evaluation process from multiple FIT funding partnerships and external stakeholders.

· Lead by example by demonstrating behaviours consistent with FIT’s mission and values.

Key Skills and Attributes:

· Leadership and Vision: Ability to lead cross-functional initiatives with vision, passion, and empathy.

· Strategic Thinking: Strong strategic planning skills to develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies.

· Relationship Management: Excellent skills in cultivating and maintaining relationships with key donors, sponsors, and philanthropic organisations.

· Programme Management: Proficiency in designing and developing programme structures, allocating budgetary resources, and overseeing recruitment and supervision of staff.

· Evaluation and Quality Assurance: Ability to develop evaluation frameworks, measure programme effectiveness, and implement quality assurance processes.

· Risk Management: Skills in identifying potential risks, developing mitigation strategies, and addressing issues promptly.

· Organisational Development: Experience in providing leadership support, identifying areas for improvement, and driving strategies for expansion and growth.

· Communication: Strong communication skills to manage stakeholder engagement, direct digital marketing activities, and promote FIT’s mission and goals.

· Staff Support and Development: Ability to support recruitment, induction, and onboarding of new staff, and provide structure for performance management and staff development.

· Event Management: Skills in managing and promoting FIT-sponsored events and ensuring effective representation at key industry, education, and government events.

Key Requirements:

· Experience: Proven experience in a leadership role within innovation and development, preferably within the charity/NGO sector.

· Education: A third-level qualification in a relevant discipline such as business administration, management, or a related field.

· Fundraising: Demonstrated success in developing and implementing fundraising strategies and securing substantial project/funding partnerships.

· Programme Management: Experience in managing and delivering successful programmes, including budget allocation and staff supervision.

· Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to engage with and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, donors, and partners.

· Organisational Skills: Strong organisational skills to manage multiple projects, timelines, and deliverables effectively.

· Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate FIT’s mission and goals and engage with various stakeholders.

· Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to identify and address potential risks and challenges.

· Team Leadership: Ability to lead and mentor a team, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities.

· Experience of working at a senior level supporting CEO and Board.

Benefits:

· Company pension

· Employee assistance program

· On-site parking

· Private medical insurance

· Work from home

How to Apply: Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and suitability for the role to hr@fit.ie by the 22nd August 2025.