Director of Advocacy & Communications

Job Title Director of Advocacy & Communications Brightwater Executive is delighted to be retained exclusively to partner with our client, Chime, Irelands National Charity for Deaf or Hard of Hearing people in their search for a Director of Advocacy & Communications About the Company Chime operates a nationwide network of Resource Centres providing a range of community-based services in addition to key Specialist Services including Residential and Childrens Multi-disciplinary services. Their aim is to positively impact the lives of their clients through the provision of Advice & Information, Care Services and Assistive Technology. Chime is a values-driven organisation, supporting their clients to achieve the best possible outcomes. They promote staff development, enable staff to fulfil their potential while providing top-class service delivery. About the Position Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Director of Advocacy & Communications role will be the lead role for all Advocacy and Communications by Chime. As a member of the senior management team the Director of Advocacy and Communications will provide both strategic and operational leadership to contribute to the overall success of the organisation. The Director of Advocacy and Communications will have overall responsibility for a range of activities including advocacy, public policy, research, marketing and PR. The role currently has 1 direct report as well as a number of external consultant relationships to oversee. Key Responsibilities To develop and manage campaigns to build awareness of Chime and the issues affecting the people we support. To influence policy makers to further the goals of the organisation in supporting people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. To represent the organisation on relevant committees, coalitions and working groups and enhance the organisations profile as a key entity within the Deaf and wider Disability sector. To advance public policy and public affairs objectives and in developing & maintaining contacts with politicians and the political system in general. To develop and manage Advocacy operations including budgets, resources, annual plans and events. To influence and provide strategic advice to decision and policymakers. Produce policy briefing papers, policy position statements and manage the public communications of these. Lead the organisations overall Brand development and marketing strategy. Act as the lead media spokesperson and liaise with PR and media organisations and to provide media interviews as required. Experience/Requirements Essential Requirements: Relevant university degree or college diploma. 3 to 5 years experience in a similar role Advocacy track record is essential. Demonstrable experience in achieving success across public affairs, campaigns, policy change. Senior professional/executive experience to operate at SMT level and engage/present to key stakeholders such as Ministers and the Chime Board. Experience in lobbying and campaigning for positive change in society. Strong communications and media skills/Expertise in communication and negotiation skills. Desirable Requirements: Marketing and people manager experience Experience and knowledge of marketing strategies and tactics/ budget management/ brand development A high level of fluency in ISL or acquiring a high level of fluency in ISL Location: Flexible working arrangements will be considered where possible although a significant portion of the role will be Dublin based. Contact For more information and a confidential discussion on this Director of Advocacy & Communications opportunity, please contact Yvonne McNulty, Senior Partner, at Brightwater Executive or click to apply below Skills: Advocacy Policy Development Communication Leadership