Director of Teagasc

THE ORGANISATION:

Teagasc is the national public authority for the provision of integrated research, advisory, education and training services to the Irish agri-food sector. It is a leading internationally recognised organisation for the creation of innovative technological solutions for food systems transformation and economic development. Employing over 1,300 people and with a budget of €200m, Teagasc runs over 400 research projects annually across its 7 research centres. The organisation also provides education and advisory services to 45,000 farmer clients and food producers and over 4,500 students through its colleges and network of advisory offices. Aligning with global demands for more sustainable food systems and with the European Green Deal roadmap, including the Farm to Fork strategy, Teagasc is developing pioneering new technologies to drive change in the way Ireland produces, processes, consumes and exports its foods.

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THE ROLE:

The Director will provide visionary leadership to Teagasc, enabling it to support Irish farmers and food companies to achieve a sustainable food system. Reporting to the Teagasc Authority, the appointed person will ensure that the organisation continues to deliver world-class, science-based solutions for the transformation of Ireland’s land resources into environmentally, economically and socially sustainable food products and services. The Director will work closely with the Teagasc Authority, the Minister for Agriculture Food & the Marine and other government and industry stakeholders, nationally and internationally, to ensure that the Irish agri-food sector maintains its leading position in the global marketplace.

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THE PERSON:

This position requires an inspirational leader with an outstanding track record of achievement within a relevant organisation. Possessing an appropriate professional or postgraduate qualification, the successful candidate will demonstrate a compelling vision for the contribution that Teagasc’s research and knowledge transfer programmes can make to the transformation of Ireland’s agri-food sector. The appointed person will possess a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, particularly relating to sustainability and climate change. Exceptional stakeholder management and influencing abilities are essential, in addition to exemplary interpersonal and communication skills.