Charities Institute Ireland is the representative body for Ireland's leading fundraising charities. It promotes excellence in governance, financial transparency and ethical fundraising, supports sector development, and advocates on behalf of its members to strengthen public trust and confidence. With a growing and diverse membership, the organisation plays a central role in shaping policy, setting standards and providing a collective voice for the sector. The organisation is committed to innovation, collaboration and impact, ensuring it remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members and the communities they serve. THE POSITION The Chief Executive Officer will report to the Chair and Board and will lead the organisation in delivering its strategic vision, ensuring strong governance, operational effectiveness and sustainable growth. They will oversee all aspects of performance, including strategy execution, financial management and stakeholder engagement, while acting as a trusted advisor to the Board. The role requires visible and credible leadership, representing the organisation at senior levels and building effective relationships with members, policymakers and partners. They will lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture aligned with organisational values and objectives. REQUIREMENTS The successful candidate will have a strong track record in senior leadership, with experience in strategy, governance and organisational management. They will be an effective communicator and influencer, capable of engaging with Boards and stakeholders in complex environments. Experience in a membership or professional services context is advantageous. They will demonstrate strategic insight, sound judgement and the ability to lead through change, supported by strong financial and operational acumen. A credible and collaborative leadership style, with the ability to represent the organisation with integrity, is essential. Knowledge of the charity sector is desirable but not essential. REMUNERATION A competitive remuneration package will be on offer to the successful candidate. HOW TO APPLY If you believe that you meet the requirements necessary to take on this important role, please submit a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae via the available 'Apply Option' in strictest confidence, for the attention of Eilish Devine, Partner of our retained executive search partners, Principal Connections - executive search on or before 12 noon on Friday 22nd May 2026. For a confidential discussion please contact Eilish Devine on. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Principal Connections is acting as an employment agency and has been retained to manage this important appointment process. Principal Connections and our clients are committed to equality of opportunity in employment. Candidates for this post will be sourced through both an advertised selection and executive search process. Only applications submitted through the available online application options (or via the email address provided where a print advertisement) will be considered. Please note that any offer of employment will be made subject to satisfactory reference checks as well as any other background checks and/or assessments deemed appropriate to the process. By applying for this vacancy with Principal Connections, you accept the Term's & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Cookies Policy which can be found on our website. ABOUT PRINCIPAL CONNECTIONS Principal Connections is a leading executive search and leadership consulting firm serving organisations across Ireland, the United Kingdom and internationally. We are also part of Agilium Worldwide LLC (Est. 1984), independently ranked one of the world's top global executive search groups. (55+ offices, 30+ countries, 250+ consultants). Visit our other Live Assignments Skills: CEO Senior Executive Industry Association