Director of Digital Learning - Institute of Public Administration

Introduction to the Institute of Public Administration (IPA) The mission of the Institute of Public Administration (IPA) is to advance the understanding, standard and practice of public administration and public policy and to build the capacity and capability of the public service workforce into the future. Our intent remains constant to be Ireland's recognised Centre of Excellence for learning and leadership development for the Public Service. Under the aegis of the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform (DPENDR), the IPA is unique in terms of the breadth and depth of multi-disciplinary public service expertise, comprising a multi-faceted approach including accredited third-level education, professional digital and in-person learning, development and advisory services. A cross-sectoral approach affords the Institute the basis for applying a unique, whole-of-government perspective to its activities, providing solutions to the demands of state and government. The IPA has evolved considerably since its foundation in 1957 with over 19,000 public servants attending courses and programmes today. The Institute has multiple specialist departments to support and advise on different approaches to public service capacity building. These departments include Professional Development, Digital Learning, Senior Public Service and the Whitaker School of Government and Management. The IPA is one of two recognised colleges of the National University of Ireland (NUI) alongside the Royal College of Surgeons (RCSI), awarding NUI degrees in compliance with relevant agreements and national statutes and of significance. Notably, it is the only Institute of Public Administration in Europe with this awarding authority A New Era of Learning: IPA 2022-2027 Strategy There are four key strategic goals within the strategy. 1. Professional Learning and Development: Proactively identify and address the professional and accredited life-long learning and development needs of our Civil and Public Service. 2. Research, Thought Leadership and Innovation: Position the IPA as the recognised thought leader through targeted research, expert advice and service delivery excellence. 3. Culture, Knowledge and Our Sharing Organisation: Elevate and integrate our approaches to staff development, knowledge sharing and culture, to reflect a progressive teaching and learning organisation. 4. IPA Organisational Environment: Deliver process and administrative efficiencies while meeting the professional expectations of our staff, customers and stakeholders. The IPA has multiple specialist services that support and advise on different approaches to capacity building within the Public Service. These services are categorised within five key areas including: Academic Programmes, Professional Programmes and Advisory Services, Leadership Development Services, Digital Learning and Strategic International Programmes. Role Summary The Director of Digital Learning will lead the IPA's Digital Learning Department in alignment with and supporting the overarching IPA strategic goals and direction. Most importantly, collaboration is central to this role in developing the IPA's digital learning ecosystem. The role reports directly to the Director General of the IPA and the appointee will be a member of the sixperson Executive Leadership Team. This is an exciting new role, and the successful candidate will contribute to overall strategy through supporting the Director General in strategic transformation, digital enablement and organisational development measures. The Director will be pivotal in directing and managing the integration of digital learning in the executive education environment and will oversee the development and implementation of digital learning strategies to enhance teaching and learning experiences. The individual will drive the development of the IPA's digital learning portfolio initially through the OneLearning platform whilst leading the procurement of a new learning management/learning experience platform to implement the IPA's vision for the digital learning ecosystem. Building on the strong foundation of the existing success of the team in OneLearning, this offers the right candidate the opportunity to shape and develop the Digital Learning Department over the coming years, actively create and innovate to address public servants' learning needs whilst making a critical revenue contribution to the Institute. The successful candidate will have the energy, enthusiasm, and drive to achieve and excel in managing and building a highly effective and committed person will also demonstrate the capacity to undertake change at organisation level in collaboration and harmony with peer directors. Key Responsibilities This is a senior leadership role which will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following: Strategic Development Responsibilities: Develop a digital learning development strategy for the IPA that addresses the complex and evolving needs of the Irish Civil and Public Service efficiently at scale and delivers financial sustainability for the IPA. Continually assess the strategic approach in accordance with client needs, particularly in new and emerging areas of learning needs, and make amendments wherever appropriate. Develop a strong communications and business development approach to expanding the access, learner and organisation numbers as clients of the IPA's digital learning ecosystem. Oversee the integration of technology into curricula and instructional practices to enhance learning outcomes. Evaluate emerging digital tools and technologies to determine their potential impact on learning. Work across the IPA with directors, faculty and specialists to integrate digital learning strategies and ensure that the content is relevant, engaging and accessible, and that the lifecycle of digital content is proactively managed. Provide training for educators on best practices for digital teaching and learning. Foster a culture of innovation by encouraging educators to experiment with and adopt new digital tools. Leadership Responsibilities: Work closely with the Director General on the implementation of the overall IPA strategy and report to the IPA Board as required. Actively participate and contribute to the Executive Leadership Team and overall leadership, management and financial performance of the IPA. Be responsible for ensuring that the Digital Learning Department and staff operate within the Corporate Governance framework of the IPA, particularly its obligations as a Body under the aegis of DPENDR. Develop both functional and leadership capability of the department to meet current and future requirements. Deliver and achieve financial and performance KPIs for the department in line with the financial modelling, pricing policies and strategies in place. Set consistent high standards of performance and lead by example. Ensure that the department is effective in implementing all IPA policies, procedures and protocols, actively contributing to those most relevant to the Digital Learning Department's remit. Collaborate with directors and teams across the IPA to co-design, deliver and communicate strategically relevant projects. Operations Management Responsibilities: Management responsibility for the OneLearning team (approx. 12-15 staff) overseeing recruitment, motivation, performance management, and professional development to ensure the team meets its objectives effectively. Manage the department and staff effectively, focusing on the policies and activities required to support the smooth running and delivery of the services provided. Work closely with the Head of Communications on the development and implementation of the IPA's central marketing and communications strategy. Work closely with the Head of HR in ensuring that HR policies and procedures are being implemented at departmental level. The Person Essential Requirements Candidates will require the following knowledge, skills and attributes for successful performance in the role. Qualifications Third level degree in a relevant field such as Digital Learning, Education, Instructional Design, Learning & Development, Business Administration, or Public Administration (essential). Professional certifications in project management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP) or digital learning (e.g., Certified Professional in Learning and Performance, ATD) would be advantageous. Clear record of academic and professional excellence, and achievement at respected institutions or organisations. In-depth knowledge of digital learning strategies and technologies, including emerging tools and trends in e-learning. Strong understanding of curriculum development and instructional design principles, ideally in a public service context. Familiarity with corporate governance frameworks and public sector compliance requirements. Awareness and fluency in the learning and development needs of the Public Service would be advantageous. Experience Significant leadership experience (minimum 7-10 years) at management level ideally within a learning and development, public sector, or higher education environment. Proven track record in developing and implementing digital learning strategies at scale. Experience in managing teams, including recruitment, performance management, and staff development. Demonstrated experience in driving innovation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Experience in stakeholder engagement, business development, and strategic communications in a complex multi-faceted organisation or across multiple organisations. Strong business acumen with the ability to manage budget targets effectively and develop the client base for digital learning. Passionate about digital learning and development with a proven track record in designing, developing and delivering interventions at executive level. Previous experience within, or working with, the Public Service would be advantageous. Skills Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, engaging and liaising with both internal and external stakeholders, representing the IPA mission and values and to work effectively as part of the leadership team and with all staff. Adaptable with the ability to manage and lead teams in a changing environment and still deliver the required results. Proven ability to manage significant transformation projects simultaneously and meet all deadlines in a timely manner. Strong IT literacy and understanding of online learning technologies, proficiency in writing and presentation skills How to Apply Forvis Mazars have been retained by the IPA to assist with the appointment of the Director of Digital Learning role. Forvis Mazars, on behalf of the IPA, invites applications from suitably qualified candidates both nationally and internationally, and will be undertaking a comprehensive recruitment process as part of this recruitment campaign. Forvis Mazars will be managing all aspects of this recruitment project on behalf of IPA. No enquiries or canvassing should be made directly to IPA. Applications should be submitted online and must include: 1. A cover letter outlining why you wish to be considered for the role and why you believe your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role and; 2. A comprehensive CV clearly showing your relevant achievements and experience in your career to date. Only applications fully submitted online will be accepted into the campaign. To apply for this role, visit executive recruitment and search Ref. IPA0324 Closing date Deadline for application: 12 noon (Irish time) on Wednesday, 8th January 2025. Applications will not be accepted after the closing date/ time. An acknowledgement email will be issued for all applications received. If you do not receive acknowledgement of your application within 24hours of submission, please contact the Forvis Mazars Executive Recruitment Team by email () to ensure your application has been received. To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process click the Apply button below to Login/Register.