Overview
Our client is a purpose-driven organisation operating within Ireland's sustainability and environmental policy landscape. Established to deliver large-scale national initiatives that support long-term environmental and regulatory goals, the organisation plays a central role in advancing compliance, accountability, and stakeholder collaboration across industry and government.
As they continue to strengthen and refine their operations, they are seeking an experienced
Public and Regulatory Affairs Manager
to lead their engagement with policymakers, regulators, and key stakeholders. This is a high-impact role for an accomplished public affairs professional ready to shape national policy conversations and ensure the organisation's continued leadership within its sector.
About the Organisation
Our client operates at the intersection of business, regulation, and sustainability - helping to design, manage, and deliver initiatives that contribute to Ireland's environmental and economic objectives.
They are an independent, entity working in close collaboration with government, industry, and civic partners. With a growing team and a strong foundation already in place, the organisation is entering a new phase of strategic development and policy influence.
The Role
Reporting to the
Head of Public and Regulatory Affairs
, the
Public and Regulatory Affairs Manager
will lead government engagement, regulatory compliance, and policy development activities.
You will act as the organisation's primary liaison with departments, agencies, and political representatives, providing senior counsel on evolving legislation, regulatory frameworks, and strategic communications.
You'll also manage a
Public and Regulatory Affairs Officer
and partner with an external public affairs agency to drive advocacy and engagement programmes.
Key Responsibilities:
Government Relations & Political Engagement
* Represent the organisation in dealings with government departments, Ministers of State, and elected representatives.
* Develop and execute a comprehensive political engagement strategy across all major political parties.
* Maintain strong, responsive relationships with departmental officials and advisors.
* Provide political intelligence and risk assessments to senior leadership.
* Coordinate participation in governmental consultations, reviews, and policy development processes.
Regulatory Compliance & Policy Development
* Serve as the main point of contact with national regulatory authorities.
* Ensure full compliance with all relevant legislation, licensing, and regulatory conditions.
* Monitor and interpret policy changes at both national and EU levels, assessing operational impacts.
* Lead organisational responses to consultations, reviews, and enforcement actions.
* Develop evidence-based policy positions on key legislative and environmental issues.
Stakeholder Management & Coalition Building
* Build and maintain relationships with regulatory agencies, local authorities, and representative bodies.
* Engage with trade associations, producer organisations, NGOs, and civil society groups.
* Balance competing stakeholder interests to achieve shared objectives.
* Identify opportunities for partnership and alignment on strategic initiatives.
EU & International Policy Engagement
* Track legislative and policy developments across the EU and internationally.
* Participate in relevant policy and industry networks to share best practices and align advocacy efforts.
* Provide briefings to senior leadership on upcoming policy changes and strategic implications.
Strategic Communications & Reputation Management
* Develop and execute public affairs communications strategies that support policy objectives.
* Manage sensitive communications during regulatory or policy challenges.
* Prepare executives and board members for public, parliamentary, and media engagements.
* Draft policy submissions, briefing materials, and position statements.
* Support proactive and crisis communications in partnership with the communications team.
Strategic Intelligence & Advisory Support
* Provide regular political and regulatory intelligence updates to the Executive Committee.
* Conduct risk assessments for major operational or strategic decisions.
* Advise on timing and framing of organisational announcements and initiatives.
* Anticipate and prepare for upcoming policy shifts or electoral cycles.
Qualifications & Experience
* Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field.
* 8-10 years' experience in senior public affairs, government relations, or political advisory roles.
* Proven track record in policy influence and stakeholder engagement at national level.
* Strong understanding of the Irish political system, parliamentary processes, and regulatory frameworks.
* Experience interpreting and implementing legislative and compliance requirements.
* Exceptional written communication skills, including drafting policy papers, submissions, and briefings.
* Experience preparing senior leaders for public and parliamentary appearances.
Personal Attributes
* Strong political and strategic awareness.
* Professional presence and sound judgement.
* Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills.
* Strategic thinker with strong commercial and policy awareness.
* Integrity, discretion, and high ethical standards.
* Adaptable, resilient, and proactive under pressure.
What You'll Get
* Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
* Generous annual leave.
* Hybrid working model
* Health cover
* Pension
* Life assurance
* Annual performance review process.
* On-site parking and subsidised canteen.