Director of Senior Public Service
Institute of Public Administration
The Organisation
The Institute of Public Administration (IPA) exists to support a capable, confident and effective Public Service in Ireland. Our purpose is to strengthen the capability and leadership required to meet complex demands, make sound decisions and contribute to better public services for the people of Ireland. We do this through learning and leadership development that is evidence based, practice led and focused on application at a whole-of-government level.
The Role
Leadership development is a critical strategic enabler of delivering better public services to the people of Ireland. Senior Public Service (SPS) encompasses the leadership development portfolio and related support services for senior staff across the Public Service. SPS is managed by the IPA in close collaboration with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation.
The successful candidate will lead the further development of senior strategic leadership capability across the Public Service. They will have responsibility for the SPS leadership development portfolio, leading the design, delivery and continuous enhancement of high-impact programmes and support services aligned with system-wide Public Service needs. They will develop excellent relationships with senior stakeholders across the Public Service, ensuring continuous innovation and best-practice thinking.
As a senior leader within the organisation, the role contributes to the overall strategy, governance and performance of the IPA, working closely with the Director General, Board and Executive Leadership Team.
The Person
The successful candidate will be an experienced leader in executive learning and development, with a proven track record of designing and delivering high-impact programmes for senior leaders in complex environments. They will bring strong strategic capability, a deep understanding of Public Service leadership needs, and sound knowledge of learning and development frameworks, behavioural change and evaluation methodologies. Highly skilled in communication, relationship building and influence, they will also demonstrate excellent organisational and prioritisation skills.
Application and Further Information
For further information and to apply for this role visit www.forvismazars.com/ie/en/executiverecruitment .
All enquiries relating to this role should be directed to the Executive Recruitment Team by email to execrecruit@mazars.ie or by telephone on +353 (1) 449 4400.
Forvis Mazars will be managing all aspects of this recruitment project on behalf of the IPA.
No enquiries or canvassing should be made directly to the IPA.
Deadline for applications: 1 pm, Monday, 11 May 2026.
The IPA is an equal opportunities employer with a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organisation.
