Project Development Executive

About the WDC The Western Development Commission (WDC) is a statutory body whose role is to promote the social and economic development of the western region of Ireland. The WDC works with a range of stakeholders to support sustainable and inclusive growth in the region and has a strong track record of delivering impactful initiatives and programmes.

Culture of the WDC At the WDC, we are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment where employees can thrive and make a difference. Our culture is defined by teamwork, innovation, and a deep sense of purpose. We value diversity, respect for different perspectives, and a willingness to learn and grow. If you are passionate about making a difference in the western region of Ireland and want to be part of a dynamic and collaborative team, we encourage you to apply for this role.

Purpose of Role The WDC seeks to hire executive officer positions to support the implementation of their ongoing strategy. The main role sought will act as the lead project executive for the BIOCHAR (BIOCHAR for Industry, Optimising Eco-Impact, Construction, Agriculture and Rural Communities) project, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Just Transition Fund (JTF).

The BIOCHAR project is valued at approximately €5 million and focuses on climate change mitigation and adaptation through circular bioeconomy solutions. The project includes pilot demonstrations exploring the application of biochar in the agriculture and construction sectors.

Panel Formation / Future Roles The WDC reserves the right to consider applicants for other suitable project executive roles in due course which may require fulfilling. Such roles will be consistent with the following key responsibilities, however the role durations may vary, as needs dictate.

Key Responsibilities The following are the main tasks to be undertaken:

1. Project-Specific Delivery

• Lead and assist in delivering assigned project tasks with stakeholders and subcontractors.
• Possess a knowledge and capability to implement the following areas of EU projects:
  • Project budget management - ensuring clear budget plans are met and risk mitigated.
  • Financial claim preparation and management for EU/National reporting requirements.
  • Financial audit preparation in relation to claims as required.
  • Project partner management (transnational) - advanced interpersonal management.
  • Managing engagement with SME stakeholders.
  • Communication and PR (social media and wider comms channels).
  • Management of relationships with program bodies.
  • Work package implementation as required - e.g. Pilots, support mechanisms, feasibility reports, needs analysis, as well as communications and project work package requirements.
  • Sub-contractor management in support of project requirements.
• Support the development and knowledge transfer of bioeconomy ecosystem capabilities in the region.

1. Project Management & Funding

• Manage the full lifecycle of EU funding implementation, from planning and stakeholder engagement through to final operationalisation, ensuring compliance with EU or equivalent funding call criteria.
• Support the implementation of EU-funded projects across a range of programmes that advance the WDC's regional development priorities.

1. Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

• Liaise, collaborate, and negotiate with national and international stakeholders to increase EU funding opportunities aligned with WDC's strategic aims.
• Build and maintain effective relationships and working arrangements with EU, national, regional, and local bodies.
• Under the guidance of the Regional Development Manager, support cross-team collaboration across the WDC.

1. Reporting & Representation

• Prepare and present papers to the WDC Board on project progress, outcomes, and learnings.
• Represent the WDC at public meetings, press gatherings, and other relevant events.
• Participate in EU development initiatives, forums, and collaborative activities that support regional development objectives.

The above is not, and does not purport to be, a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post which may be assigned to them from time to time and to contribute to the development of the post.

Eligibility Criteria and Experience Essential:

Applicants must by the closing date of application have the following:

• Designed, managed and delivered multi-annual projects involving various stakeholders and partners (preferably EU projects) which required strong collaboration and negotiation skills.
• Proven track record in developing and managing project funding, budgeting and allocation model(s) across multiple projects.
• Relevant educational or practical experience in a sector aligned with the BIOCHAR project objectives (e.g., bioeconomy, agriculture, sustainability, circular economy or climate-related initiatives).
• Demonstrated experience drafting, structuring, writing and finalising submission project plans and/or detailed multi-stakeholder reports, capturing input from internal and external stakeholders.
• Advanced communication skills, particularly in report writing, is essential to submit proposals, achieve funding and assimilate into action.
• Minimum of QQI Level 8 Degree in a relevant discipline, or 3 years plus experience in EU Projects.
• Knowledge of project support in applicable regional sectors such as: Circular economy, Technology support (Digital and AI), Social Enterprise, Creative economy, Green economy, etc.
• A track record of using and applying social media and communication channels to reach and engage stakeholders to support publicly funded (or equivalent) projects.

Desirable:

• An understanding of the EU funding programmes across a range of themes and calls.
• In relation to the BIOCHAR role - relevant educational or practical experience of project implementation in a related sector and the following skillset:
  • Knowledge and expertise in a related sector
  • Partner/ Stakeholder engagement with local authorities
• Demonstrated capacity to source and manage funds effectively.
• Previous experience in regional development work.
• An interest in work in key sectors such as: Circular Economy, Green Economy, Creative Economy, Renewable Energy and general support areas for regional businesses.
• Track record of working with productivity platforms e.g., Microsoft 365, Teams, Webex, SharePoint, Miro, etc.
• Analytical, goal focused and confident in measuring performance against targets.
• Proficient in Irish.

Key Competencies For effective performance at this level, the candidate will need to demonstrate that they possess the key competencies for effective performance at Higher Executive Officer level:

• Team Leadership
• Judgment, Analysis & Decision Making
• Management & Delivery of Results
• Interpersonal & Communication Skills
• Specialist Knowledge, Expertise and Self Development
• Drive & Commitment to Public Service Values

Civil Service Competency Framework is available here.

Conditions All appointments are subject to the Western Development Commission Act 1998 and staff must agree to the WDC Code of Business Conduct under the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies.

Pending sanction from the Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht, the appointment will be for a full-time, fixed-term contract of 38 months subject to a probationary period as specified in the employment contract. Candidates must satisfactorily complete a 6-month probationary period before the 38 month fixed-term appointment can be confirmed. Notwithstanding the above, this will not preclude an extension of the probationary contract if performance dictates the same.

Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will hold a full driving licence and have access to transport as this post will involve travel nationally in support of the seven county Western Region. When absent from home and the designated office location on official duty, you will be paid accordingly. The candidate should also be prepared to undertake occasional international travel in the undertaking of their duties.

Salary Personal Pension Contribution (PPC) Pay Rate: The salary for this position, with effect from 1 February 2026 is as follows:

€59,435 - €61,173 - €62,908 - €64,640 - €66,380 - €68,111 - €69,849 - €72,353 LSI1 - €75,788 LSI2

In addition:

• A further general round increase of 1% will apply on 1st June 2026.

Please note: The starting salary for the person appointed to this post will be the first point on the above scale unless the successful application has previous public sector experience as per circular 08/2019.

Remote First At the WDC, we follow the Government's / our parent Department's guidance in extending remote working to all employees. In order to provide flexibility and opportunities for dynamic collaboration and work/life balance. We believe in harnessing technology to drive innovation and maximize efficiency, empowering our team to thrive in a flexible work environment. We promote in-person collaboration and attendance at our offices located in Sligo, Galway, Letterkenny and Ballaghaderreen . click apply for full job details