Executive Director - Funding, Performance & Construction, SOLAS
SOLAS is the state agency responsible for Further Education and Training (FET) in Ireland. We drive the responsiveness, innovation, transformation, sustainability and success of the FET and apprenticeship systems.
THE ORGANISATION
SOLAS is the state agency responsible for Further Education and Training (FET) in Ireland. We drive the responsiveness, innovation, transformation, sustainability and success of the FET and apprenticeship systems. We do this by setting strategy, channelling investment, leading implementation, and ensuring accountability across FET providers, with an overriding focus on the needs of their learners and apprentices.
SOLAS wishes to appoint an individual to the position of Executive Director, to lead the Funding, Performance and Construction Division, driving strategic oversight of over €1 billion in annual funding and advancing major capital and construction initiatives. This role is pivotal in ensuring the delivery of key initiatives, supporting diverse pathways to careers and further study, and enhancing national infrastructure. The successful candidate will be an experienced senior leader with strong stakeholder engagement skills, operating with authority and credibility in a complex environment.
THE ROLE
The Executive Director, Funding, Performance and Construction, will lead the delivery of major capital and construction programmes, ensuring SOLAS delivers on Ireland’s further education and training priorities. This senior leader will shape innovative strategies, champion digital transformation, and spearhead impactful stakeholder engagement with Government, Education and Training Boards, and industry. The role is pivotal in advancing workforce development, robust governance, and system-wide evaluation to maximise impact and value. The Executive Director will inspire a culture of excellence and accountability, positioning SOLAS at the heart of Ireland’s skills, construction, and infrastructure transformation.
THE PERSON
The personal qualities of the ideal candidate will include strategic vision, strong leadership capability and a demonstrated ability to deliver results in complex environments. The successful candidate will have exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, negotiation and influencing skills, together with a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for the FET system.
To Apply:
Lansdowne Executive Search has been retained by SOLAS to manage this recruitment process.
To pursue your interest, please email a comprehensive CV and supporting letter to:
Seán McDonagh, Partner, Lansdowne Executive Search. Email: sean.mcdonagh@lansdownesearch.ie
For a confidential discussion, please contact Seán at +353 (0)87 796 1062.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm, Thursday 23rd July 2026.
Further details available at: www.solas.ie. This appointment is on a permanent basis.
The rate of pay for the post (Grade 03X), ranges from €171,517 to €196,205 (Personal Pension Contribution) per annum.
The rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with government pay policy.
Candidates for this role will be sourced through both advertising and executive search processes.
SOLAS is an equal opportunities employer. Canvassing will disqualify.
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