The Ecology and Retreat Programme Manager plays a pivotal role in designing, delivering, and growing the organisation's educational and retreat programme.
This position involves creating engaging content on earth literacy, biodiversity, sustainability, and ecological awareness through collaborations with guest speakers and facilitators. It also entails sourcing new speakers, experts, and collaborators, as well as developing workshops and courses that integrate the work of the on-site organic farm.
The successful candidate will be responsible for planning and hosting seasonal celebrations, facilitating group reflection days, and guided tours of the farm and centre. Additionally, they will build collaborative links with other ecology centres and aligned institutions in Ireland and abroad, and create and oversee a marketing plan for the programme.
About the Role:
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a values-driven organisation making a tangible impact on individuals, communities, and the environment. The successful candidate will have the freedom to design meaningful programming, work closely with like-minded people, and make a real difference.
About You:
We are seeking an individual who is passionate about ecology and education, with strong leadership and team development skills. They should have excellent written and verbal communication skills, be detail-oriented and highly organised, and possess a solid understanding of ecological science and its intersections with culture and belief systems.
Key Responsibilities:
* Designing all aspects of the annual programme of courses, retreats, and events
* Working with guest speakers and facilitators to develop engaging content on earth literacy, biodiversity, sustainability, and ecological awareness
* Sourcing and engaging new speakers, experts, and collaborators
* Facilitating and delivering existing sabbatical programmes, including participant admissions and leading educational outings
* Maximising use of residential facilities through compelling, year-round programme design
* Creating offerings that reach new demographics and deepen local community engagement
* Developing workshops and courses that integrate the work of the on-site organic farm
* Planning and hosting seasonal celebrations such as Winter/Summer solstices and Spring/Autumn equinoxes
* Facilitating group reflection days and guided tours of the farm and centre
* Building collaborative links with other ecology centres and aligned institutions in Ireland and abroad
* Creating and overseeing a marketing plan for the programme
* Preparing and reporting on the programme budget