Associate Consultant (freelance) – Strategy and Governance
Impact Ireland
Contract / Associate Basis Flexible / Project-by-project Remote (Ireland based with some travel)
About Us
Impact Ireland Consulting Ltd (t/a Impact Ireland) is expanding, and we're building a small, brilliant network of associate consultants to support our growth.
We work with charities, non-profits, Approved Housing Bodies, community organisations, and public bodies across Ireland helping them strengthen governance, improve services, clarify strategy, and deepen their social impact.
We believe research and evaluation should never just "sit on a shelf". Our work is practical, people-centred and designed to inform real decisions, better services, and stronger outcomes for communities.
As demand for our strategic planning, governance reviews and board development work continues to increase, we are seeking an Associate Consultant specialising in strategy and governance to collaborate with us on a project-by-project basis.
Why This Role Matters
Many organisations need support to:
* Set a clear strategic direction and plans
* Make evidence-informed decisions
* Strengthen governance and compliance
* Improve effectiveness at board and leadership level
* Navigate change with confidence and clarity
Your work will give boards and leadership teams the insight, structure and support they need to deliver on their mission.
What You'll Do
Working closely with our Principal Consultant and other associates, you will:
* Lead or support strategic planning processes from early discovery through to developing a final strategy
* Design and deliver board workshops, strategy days and facilitated conversations
* Carry out governance reviews, board effectiveness assessments and compliance healthchecks
* Conduct research, interviews and document reviews to inform strategic recommendations
* Analyse organisational context, needs, and opportunities to shape strategic direction
* Produce polished, clear, and actionable strategic or governance reports
* Support organisations in implementing recommendations and embedding good governance practice
You'll join a trusted pool of associates and choose projects aligned to your expertise and availability.
What We're Looking ForEssential
* Strong experience in strategy development, governance, board development, or related consultancy
* High-level facilitation skills, particularly with boards, CEOs and senior leaders
* Ability to analyse complex information quickly and provide structured, practical insights
* Experience with charities, AHBs, community organisations, NGOs or public services
* Excellent communication and report-writing skills
* Values-driven approach with a commitment to transparency, accountability and inclusion
* Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs to deadline
* Based in Ireland with the right to work here
* Able to provide two professional references prior to appointment
Desirable
* Knowledge of governance frameworks such as the Charities Governance Code, AHBRA Standards, the Companies Act, etc.
* Experience supporting organisations through change, strategy renewal or governance reform
* Experience conducting interviews, consultations or desk-based research
* Familiarity with sectors such as housing, domestic violence services, community development or social care
What We Offer
* Flexible associate arrangement – this is a freelance role working on a project basis
* Competitive daily rates, aligned with experience and project complexity
* Opportunity to be part of a growing, values-led consultancy doing work that matters
* Collaboration with a supportive Principal Consultant and peers
* Access to templates, tools and methodologies used across our projects
* Potential for deeper, longer-term collaboration as Impact Ireland continues to scale
How to Express Interest
Please email:
* Your CV
* A short note outlining your experience and areas of interest
to:
Job Type: Specified-purpose
Work authorisation:
* Ireland (required)
Work Location: Remote