Senior Policy Coordinator (VAW)

About the role

The National Women's Council of Ireland (NWC) is hiring a Senior Policy Coordinator to lead and coordinate policy development, advocacy, research and campaigns in line with NWC's Strategic Plan. The role focuses on women's safety, gender-based violence and all forms of violence against women, covering topics from domestic and sexual violence to harassment, technology-facilitated abuse and structural issues such as housing precarity. It is a five-day week (35 hours) position for an initial one-year fixed-term contract, with potential extension to permanent status subject to funding and performance. The salary is €48,329 (non-negotiable). Staff work in a hybrid system, with office presence on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Key responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and coordination to Policy & Engagement Officers and other project team staff, and support the Head of Policy in planning, monitoring and evaluating policy projects.
• Lead or contribute to policy papers, submissions, briefings and recommendations, and carry out research and analysis to inform policy positions and advocacy strategies, including managing external researchers or contractors.
• Represent NWC in external forums, networks and meetings at local, national and international levels, act as a media spokesperson where appropriate, and communicate policy positions to government, media, members and civil society.
• Plan, implement and oversee policy projects, manage project budgets with the Finance Team, monitor and evaluate project impact, and develop Working Groups, Networks and Alliances such as the Observatory on Violence Against Women.
• Contribute to strategic planning, ensure alignment with NWC's priorities, and engage members in policy work.
• Produce written materials, help develop communication materials, assist with events, and supervise and sign off on monthly reports.

Required profile

• Third-level qualification in social policy, public policy, social sciences, law or a related field.
• At least 3 years' experience in policy, research or advocacy within the NGO, public or related sector.
• Demonstrated experience managing or coordinating projects and budgets.
• Strong knowledge of the Irish political and policy environment and of feminist and equality frameworks.

Required skills

• Policy development and strong writing skills.
• Knowledge of the NGO sector, gender and equality.
• Collaborative, inclusive and solutions-focused approach, with strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

To apply, complete the application form and send it to the named contact at the organisation; late applications will not be considered. First-round interviews are scheduled for the week of 7 December, with a second round to follow.