Governance and Operations Officer (Full or Part-Time Role - 2-year contract)

at  AONTAS

ABOUT AONTAS

Established in 1969, AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, is a non-governmental membership organisation that promotes that value of adult learning and advocates for the rights of all adults to quality learning across the tertiary education system. We have an unwavering commitment to improving conditions for educationally disadvantaged adult learners. We offer solutions-focused advocacy that is evidence-based, drawing on research and our extensive initiatives that engage with adults who have returned to education. AONTAS is a highly respected and connected non-governmental organisation at national and international levels.
AONTAS is committed to providing a voice for adult learners based on our vision of learning as being truly lifelong, and takes account of the myriad benefits of learning to health, personal development, social engagement and community development. AONTAS advocates for an inclusive, learner-centred lifelong learning system that enables adults to have a meaningful learning experience.

CORE REQUIREMENTS

• Relevant third-level qualification
• Experience in developing and reviewing policies, procedures and controls
• Knowledge of governance, compliance, and risk in Irish context
• Knowledge of Charity SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice)
• Proven ability and confidence to lead and organise projects
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office 365 (including Excel, Word, Teams)
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal in English)
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience

Preferred Experience

• Experience developing standard operating procedures
• Experienced in organising staff training
• Proven ability to plan, respond, and coordinate resources meeting tight deadlines in an NGO environment
• Experienced in using Salesforce or CRM system
• Have the ability to engage staff on broader policy items through working group meetings and all-staff update sessions, ensuring meaningful collaboration and impact

Personal Characteristics

• Highly organised with ability to multi-task
• Commitment to goals of educational equality, social justice, and empowerment
• High level of professional responsibility and integrity
• Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders in a constructive and approachable manner
• Capacity to work in partnership with colleagues and stakeholders
• Committed to a socially inclusive, respectful, and positive working environment

Points to consider

• The AONTAS Board has external company sectoral support. This role does not involve attending Board or Subcommittee meetings, or development of meeting minutes
• This role will involve working closely with the Head of ESG and the CEO
• The day-to-day activities in AONTAS include multiple priorities and can at times be responsive to member or sectoral needs
• AONTAS’ values and principles are a core asset in the delivery of our work and the working environment for our team
• AONTAS operates a genuinely collaborative ‘way of working’ with all staff supporting each other. This includes all staff working together to implement activities such as events, including the AGM

Measures of Success

• AONTAS’ compliance with the Irish Charities Regulator and other external obligations
• Organised, clear, and timely delivery of documents and policies (including Risk Register and Internal Controls)
• Leadership and engagement within the staff team
• Creation, delivery, and review of Standard Operating Procedures
• Supporting the CEO with preparation and administration for the AONTAS Board

Please refer the Job description for details