About the National Dairy CouncilThe National Dairy Council (NDC) is a farmer-funded representative body that advocates for dairy as part of an increasingly sustainably produced food system; as a key component in a healthy balanced diet; and as a sector, indispensable to Ireland's social and economic wellbeing.The NDC is currently structured across three pillars: Marketing, Communications & Farm Advocacy; Schools; and Nutrition.The EU School Milk Scheme (SMS) has operated in Ireland since 1982. Its purpose is to reconnect children with agriculture and to teach healthy eating habits for life, by distributing milk to children, supported by educational activities. Since 2017, the scheme is operated by the National Dairy Council (NDC) under itsMoo Creweducational platform. For the purposes of EU funding, NDC is the aid applicant. Supporting national funds are provided by the Department of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and the Marine (DAFM) under an Oversight and Performance Delivery Agreement.The rules for the operation of the scheme are set down under a six-year strategy for the implementation of the SMS (2023/24–2028/2029 school year) as provided for under an EU Regulatory framework.(1)Schools Programme ManagerProfile:Resilient results-focused project manager and problem-solver with the ability to manage stakeholders, influence policy and drive change. Experience in co-ordinating, planning and delivering campaigns is an advantage.ResponsibilitiesEnsure the successful implementation of the EU School Milk Scheme in schools across Ireland, which includes the distribution of milk to students, promotion of the scheme and accompanying educational resources for participating schoolsOversee the financial aspects of the scheme, including budgeting, allocation of funds, and ensuring compliance with EU regulations and funding requirements.Support the delivery and management of tender documents and quotations in line with EU procurement regulations for provision of services.Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with EU regulations, including the preparation of reports and documentation for submission to EU authorities.Develop and update educational content related to dairy nutrition and healthy eating habits, tailored for different age groups in schools.Plan and deliver educational programs, workshops, and events in schools to promote the benefits of dairy consumption and educate on the production of dairy.Build and maintain relationships with educators and other stakeholders to enhance the reach and effectiveness of the programs.Act as the primary point of contact between the NDC and relevant government bodies, including the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM)Oversee marketing campaigns that promote the school programs and the benefits of dairy products to both educators and parents.Develop and distribute educational materials, such as brochures, posters, and digital content, to support program objectives.Activate both digital marketing and traditional marketing initiatives, including social media campaigns, content creation, online promotion, print, audio, and TV/VOD production.Involvement in the delivery of reports and presentations, statistics and providing updates on deliverables for Board reports and to DAFM as required.Develop and implement a strategic plan for the growth and sustainability of the schools programme, aligned with the broader goals of the National Dairy Council.Qualifications & ExperienceCandidates must have:A minimum of five years' experience, working in a project management role.A strong problem-solving mindset with the initiative to drive projects forward.An accountability mindset with an orientation towards delivery of results.Experience of managing budgets and data and use of online portals.Excellent oral and written communication skillsAbility to collaborate with colleagues across multi-functional teams.Excellent stakeholder management skills.Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.A positive can-do attitude.Experience that will be an advantage:Previous work in education.Previous experience liaising with government departments.LocationThis role is full-time and office-based at the National Dairy Council's Sandyford offices. Some travel within Ireland will be required.How to apply:Applications are invited from qualified candidates to ,enclosing a current CV and cover letter and including the following information:Confirmation of eligibility to work in Ireland.Available Start Date/ Notice PeriodPlease note that applications sent directly via LinkedIn will not be considered. (1) Council Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (Articles 22 to 25 and Annex V), Council Regulation (EU) No 1370/2013 (Article 5 and Annex 1), Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/39 (Articles 3a, 4 and 5) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2017/40 (Articles, 4,5 6, 7 and 8), Article 6 of the Delegated Regulation.