EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - FUNDING, PERFORMANCE & CONSTRUCTION
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - FUNDING, PERFORMANCE & CONSTRUCTION
SOLAS is the state agency responsible for Further Education and Training (FET)
in Ireland. We drive the responsiveness, innovation, transformation, sustainability
and success of the FET and apprenticeship systems. We do this by setting strategy,
channelling investment, leading implementation, and ensuring accountability across
FET providers, with an overriding focus on the needs of their learners and apprentices.
SOLAS wishes to appoint an individual to the position of Executive Director,
to lead the Funding, Performance and Construction Division, driving strategic
oversight of over €1 billion in annual funding and advancing major capital and
construction initiatives. This role is pivotal in ensuring the delivery of key initiatives,
supporting diverse pathways to careers and further study, and enhancing national
infrastructure. The successful candidate will be an experienced senior leader
with strong stakeholder engagement skills, operating with authority and credibility
in a complex environment.
THE ROLE
The Executive Director, Funding, Performance and Construction, will lead the
delivery of major capital and construction programmes, ensuring SOLAS delivers
on Ireland’s further education and training priorities. This senior leader will shape
innovative strategies, champion digital transformation, and spearhead impactful
stakeholder engagement with Government, Education and Training Boards, and
industry. The role is pivotal in advancing workforce development, robust governance,
and system-wide evaluation to maximise impact and value. The Executive Director
will inspire a culture of excellence and accountability, positioning SOLAS at the heart
of Ireland’s skills, construction, and infrastructure transformation.
THE PERSON
The personal qualities of the ideal candidate will include strategic vision, strong
leadership capability and a demonstrated ability to deliver results in complex
environments. The successful candidate will have exceptional communication,
stakeholder engagement, negotiation and influencing skills, together with
a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for the FET system.
Closing date is 5pm, Thursday 23 July 2026.
To apply, please email Seán McDonagh, Partner, Lansdowne Executive Search
Limited at sean.mcdonagh@lansdownesearch.ie or for a confidential discussion
please call Seán on +353 87 796 1062. Further details available at: www.solas.ie.
This appointment is on a permanent basis. The rate of pay for the post (Grade 03X),
ranges from €171,517 to €196,205 (Personal Pension Contribution) per annum.
The rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with government
pay policy.
SOLAS is an equal opportunities employer.
Canvassing will disqualify
