Job Title: Creative TY Connections Programme Manager
Reports to
: Operations Manager
Location:
in person, Dublin-based with some national travel
Employment Type:
Full-time, 12 month contract with the potential for extension.
Salary:
€36,000- €42,000 (Commensurate with experience)
About Connections Arts Centre (CAC)
Connections Arts Centre (CAC) is a social enterprise supporting thousands of adults living with intellectual disabilities and neurodivergent individuals. Our mission is to drive lasting change by making inclusion real, practical, and embedded in everyday life, led by the voices and lived experience of people with disabilities.
We deliver accessible, innovative community arts, education and training programmes that remove barriers to participation. Creative TY Connections (CTYC) is an award-winning community-based education programme bringing Transition Year students and adults with disabilities (intellectual and neurodivergent adults) together through creativity. The programme builds understanding, agency, and connection while modelling inclusive education in practice.
Connections Arts Centre is a values-led organisation. We recruit individuals who are not only skilled and experienced but also deeply aligned with our values of inclusion, creativity, integrity, and social impact.
Website
:
Linked In:
Role Overview
The Programme Manager – Creative TY Connections is responsible for the coordination, delivery, and ongoing development of the CTYC programme both within our Dublin hub and nationally.
This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on coordination and on-site presence. The Programme Manager will lead recruitment, partnership management, facilitator coordination, programme delivery oversight, and impact evaluation to ensure high-quality, inclusive implementation across multiple counties.
This is a nationally delivered programme. Some travel across Ireland will be required. A full, clean driving licence and access to a car are preferable but not essential for this role.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Programme Leadership
* Provide strategic leadership and national oversight of the Creative TY Connections programme.
* Develop and implement annual plans, targets, and KPIs aligned with organisational strategy and funding requirements.
* Drive programme growth, quality standards, and long-term development across all delivery locations.
Recruitment & Partnership Management
* Build and manage strategic partnerships with secondary schools, disability services, and community organisations nationwide.
* Lead programme recruitment, outreach, and stakeholder engagement, including presentations, information sessions, and ongoing communication.
* Coordinate programme logistics and planning, including scheduling, venue agreements, participant supports, and partnership record management.
Programme Delivery Oversight
* Oversee and support high-quality delivery of the programme nationally, including regular travel to monitor sessions and ensure consistency and excellence.
* Manage facilitators, including booking, onboarding, quality oversight, and stepping in to support delivery where required.
* Ensure operational readiness and compliance, including venue checks, risk assessments, accessibility standards, stakeholder communication, and post-session reporting.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Impact
* Lead monitoring, evaluation, and impact measurement for Creative TY Connections, using data to inform strategic growth and continuous improvement.
* Oversee feedback collection processes, including surveys and stakeholder consultations.
* Produce impact reports for funders and stakeholders and contribute to the development of CAC's Learning Platform.
Financial & Funding Management
* Develop and manage programme budgets, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable delivery.
* Monitor expenditure and financial performance, providing accurate reporting as required.
* Contribute to funding applications, grant reporting, and identification of new funding opportunities.
Programme Development & Growth
* Lead the development and enhancement of programme modules and delivery models.
* Identify emerging needs within the education and disability sectors to inform strategic growth.
* Support innovation and strengthen CAC's reputation as a national leader in inclusive community education.
Person Specification
Essential
* Significant experience in programme management within education, youth work, community development, or disability services
* Demonstrated leadership and team coordination experience
* Strong organisational, strategic planning and project management skills
* Experience managing budgets and funding requirements
* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
* Experience in monitoring, evaluation, and reporting
* Some travel is required.
Desirable
* Knowledge of inclusive practice, creative led education, accessibility standards, and safeguarding principles
* Experience working directly with secondary schools and disability services
* Experience in grant writing and funding development
* Qualification in management, education, social care, or related field
* Full, clean driving licence preferable & access to a car
Key Competencies
* Strategic thinking
* Leadership and team development
* Relationship and partnership management
* Financial oversight
* Decision-making and accountability
* Adaptability and resilience
* Commitment to inclusion and participant wellbeing
Additional Information
This is a dynamic, externally facing role requiring flexibility and responsiveness. The Programme Manager will be expected to travel to programme locations across Ireland and attend stakeholder meetings nationally.
The Programme Manager plays a critical role in strengthening the impact, reach, and long-term sustainability of Creative TY Connections.
What We Offer
A meaningful role in a purpose-led, growing organisation.
A collaborative, inclusive workplace culture.
Opportunities for personal and professional development.
We offer flexible working arrangements, a values-driven culture, and opportunities for personal and professional development as part of a growing, purpose-led organisation.
How to Apply
Please note that interviews will be held on a rolling basis and may commence upon receipt of suitable applications.
Please send your CV, two references, and a short cover letter outlining your interest and experience to
by the closing date of 18th March. In-person interviews are expected to take place on the week starting 23rd March.