Job Description:
The Social Democrats are seeking a Programme Manager to lead the delivery of our Local Election Gender Balance and Diversity Programme. This initiative is designed to empower women and people from underrepresented backgrounds including people from migrant communities, the Traveller community, and people with disabilities to participate fully in local politics and to run successfully in the 2029 Local Elections.
Reporting into the General Secretary, this is a key role within the party, responsible for managing a national programme of training, mentoring, networking, and capacity-building supports. The successful candidate will play a central part in strengthening diversity, inclusion, and representation in Irish local government.
Reporting to: General Secretary
Contract type: Contract – one year fixed-term / specified purpose contract
Hours: Part-time (0.5 full-time equivalent (FTE))
Location: Based in our HQ in central Dublin but with some national travel and hybrid working arrangements involved
Salary: EUR 32,000 per annum
Closing Date for Applications: 5pm Friday 20th February 2026
Key Responsibilities (to include, but not limited to):
- Manage and deliver the Gender Balance & Diversity Programme in line with agreed objectives and timelines.
- Coordinate online and in-person training programmes, including maintaining and developing the digital training platform.
- Organise coaching, mentoring, and networking events nationwide.
- Liaise with external training providers and partner organisations e.g. Women for Election, See Her Elected, AILG, The Wheel.
- Support the development of tailored training on leadership, civic participation, and candidate safety.
- Ensure accessibility and inclusivity across all programme activities.
- Manage the programme budget, travel, and subsistence arrangements.
- Work closely with party staff, members, and stakeholders to embed equity and inclusion across party processes.
- Track progress and contribute to transparent reporting on programme delivery.
Essential Experience and Skills:
- Experience in programme or project management, ideally in the community, political, NGO, or equality sectors.
- Strong organisational and coordination skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple workstreams.
- Willingness to travel nationwide as required.
Desirable Experience and Skills:
- Experience working with underrepresented or marginalised communities.
- Familiarity with political or civic engagement programmes.
- Experience organising training, mentoring, or leadership development initiatives.
- Knowledge of local government or electoral processes in Ireland.
What We Offer:
- A meaningful role contributing to a more inclusive and representative political system.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Opportunity to work closely with committed activists, elected representatives, and community leaders.
- Supportive and values-driven working environment.
Application Process:
- Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role to recruitment@socialdemocrats.ie by close of business on Friday February 20th 2026.
- Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
The Social Democrats are an equal opportunities organisation and strongly encourage applications from women and people from underrepresented backgrounds.