The Candidate:

The successful candidate will shape and advance policies that support the growth and development of the wind energy sector, with a specific focus on the planning and consenting systems for both onshore and offshore wind.

You will be driven by the opportunity to shape national consenting policy, to provide strategic advice and to work with our members to ensure a robust, effective and supportive planning policy framework for the development of on and offshore wind energy. You will enjoy working collaboratively with industry experts, Government officials and other relevant stakeholders. You will be committed to helping Ireland respond to the climate emergency.

Wind Energy Ireland

Wind Energy Ireland (WEI) is Ireland’s leading renewable energy representative body with over 200 members involved in wind and renewable energy development in Ireland. We represent members with projects across the development spectrum – in operation, under construction, awaiting connection, and along the whole supply chain. Our members are involved in over 95% of connected and planned onshore and offshore wind projects in Ireland.

Our primary purpose is to promote the use of wind energy in Ireland, coordinating the work of our members, pooling information, and resources. We carry out and commission research to contribute to the development of Government policy on renewable energy, and we work closely with statutory bodies and State agencies to support the growth of renewable energy and wind in particular. We also undertake funded research projects with partners in Ireland and across the EU. Our vision is to lead Ireland to a zero-carbon electricity system by 2035.

Role Description

You will have a key role in managing work programmes within the Policy and Research team to support the implementation of WEI’s strategy 2022-2025. You will:

• Lead development of policy to promote wind energy and other enabling technologies in Ireland and at European level, and represent WEI in interactions with Government agencies, policymakers, members, and other stakeholders.
• Monitor policy developments relating to consenting renewable energy and grid, and proactively identify key opportunities, risks, and issues relating to the wind energy industry for reporting to the senior leadership team.
• Take a lead role in initiating, building, and maintaining effective relationships with senior stakeholders in the relevant Government departments (DHLGH and DECC) and State bodies such as An Bord Pleanála, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Office of the Planning Regulator, the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, and relevant statutory consultees.
• Collaborate with other Policy and Research team members and WEI members through the coordination of committee meetings, working groups, and policy forums, and in leading consultation responses and position papers.
• Lead on developing WEI’s wind farm database, ensuring this is up to date and using this data to generate industry-leading analysis.
• Champion WEI’s research activities through leading the production of evidence-based papers and policy documents, while managing consultants and supporting the translation of WEI’s evidence base into policy and practice.
• Manage and support direct reports in the Policy and Research team, fostering a positive environment and enabling continuous learning and development.
• Assist the WEI senior leadership team with preparation of status updates and reports to highlight progress with implementing strategic goals for WEI Board and Council.
• Perform any other tasks or duties required of the role as appropriate.
• Complete all work to a high standard with a focus on on-time delivery.

Required Criteria

• Legal, planning, environmental, or energy-related third-level qualification.
• Enthusiastic and high-calibre candidate with a minimum of 6 years’ experience working in a policy or research role.
• Knowledge of Irish planning and environmental policy, particularly in relation to the energy and electricity sectors in Ireland.
• Experience in an advocacy environment, with a clear understanding of Irish and European current affairs and political systems.
• Experience in managing teams and/or large projects or programmes of work.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, succinct reports and presentations that communicate complex ideas effectively.
• Experience of establishing and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to motivate, empower, and collaborate with others, promoting a culture where others feel ownership.
• A demonstrated ability to make sound decisions and meet deadlines, with a strong track record of success.
• Committed to playing your part in responding to the climate emergency and making Ireland energy independent.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in project and programme management with a proven track record of delivering objectives in teams and working with multiple stakeholders.
• Experience of working in a membership-based organisation.
• Experience working with the Irish legal system related to consenting activities.
• Ability to introduce innovative ideas, solutions, or new ways of doing things.
• Clean and full driving licence.

Work Environment and Benefits

Wind Energy Ireland prides itself on being a good employer, creating a people focused company, developing teams, enhancing roles, and supporting its people. We are committed to a positive progressive culture that facilitates a great work environment.

• WEI’s offices are based in Naas, Co. Kildare. We accommodate flexible working arrangements, and staff are required to be available to attend meetings and/or work from the office when needed (typically approx. 4 days per month).
• Staff are also required to be available to attend WEI conferences and policy forums (typically 4-5 events annually).

Wind Energy Ireland currently provides the following non-salary benefits:

• 23 annual leave days and 4 company days, plus an option to buy-back an additional 3 days annual leave each year.
• Healthcare scheme provided by VHI.
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Income protection insurance for staff.
• Hybrid and flexible working.
• Supportive maternity & paternity schemes and parents leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• A competitive sick pay scheme.
• Phone and laptop, along with home office equipment.
• Mileage at standard civil service rates.