About Us:
GOAL has responded to the world's major humanitarian crises since its founding in 1977, working with vulnerable communities in 14 countries across the globe with a dedicated team of personnel. While GOAL continues to be an agile first-responder to humanitarian crises, it is also committed to working with vulnerable communities to help them survive crises and support them on the road to recovery.
About the Role
The Head of Communications will shape and deliver GOAL's global communications strategy, the role is pivotal in enhancing GOAL's visibility, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and is critical in supporting advocacy efforts. You will also be responsible for developing GOAL's internal communications strategy and assisting the CEO's Office with the delivery of same.
Reporting to the Director of Strategy and Special projects, you will lead a high-performing team focused on supporting the GOAL brand and ensuring GOAL is recognised as a leading Irish humanitarian agency delivering impactful and innovative programs around the world. We're looking for a candidate with significant experience in media, communications, PR agency or similar related fields who understands and appreciates GOAL' S mission and values. You'll lead a highly committed team who are passionate about Global Humanitarian issues, so come join us and help spread the word
**Please note we operate a hybrid policy and ask employees to attend our HQ office in Dun Laoghaire, co Dublin a minimum of 2 days week**
Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership (
areas of strategic focus in 2026)
* Review and assess GOAL's current communications strategy
* Work closely with the CEO's Office and HR to develop an internal communications strategy.
* In partnership with Head of Fundraising, review all Fundraising related communications assessing effectiveness and impact.
* Strengthen GOAL's sport positioning and deepening GOAL's brand awareness with the sports world and the public.
* Assisting the Fundraising team with targeted communications to cultivate and expand corporate partnerships, aligning with their ESG strategies and sustainability goals.
* Review GOALs approach to digital communications and how this aligns with digital giving
Brand
* Act as custodian of the GOAL Brand, strong visual identity, via multiple and varied channels and platforms.
* Ensure all communications are aligned with the GOAL brand.
External Communications
* Oversee media relations, including crisis communications, press releases, and proactive media engagement.
* Build strategic relationships with media, influencers, donors, partners to amplify GOAL's impact.
* Coordinate GOAL's media coverage in collaboration with the Fundraising, Programmes and CEO's offices.
Internal Communications
* Strengthen internal communications to increase transparency and staff engagement across global teams.
* Support change management and organizational development initiatives through effective messaging.
Digital and Content Strategy
* Oversee digital communications, including website, social media, and multimedia storytelling.
* Ensure brand consistency and accessibility across all digital and print materials.
Advocacy and Campaigns
* Collaborate with the Programmes Advocacy Team to design and deliver campaigns that influence policy and public opinion.
* Translate complex humanitarian and development issues into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
Leadership and Team Development
* Lead and mentor a high-performing communications team.
* Manage departmental budgets and resources effectively.
* Foster innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning within the team.
Skills and Experience:
* Significant and proven Communications experience in PR agency environment, media relations, or a related field (Exposure to the charity sector in Ireland considered an advantage)
* Demonstrated experience in a similar leadership role, with background in managing and motivating teams
* Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, storytelling and ability to engage diverse audiences.
* Demonstrated success in media engagement, brand positioning, and strategic communications planning.
* Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and navigate complex international landscapes.
* A commitment to GOAL's mission and values, with a deep understanding of global humanitarian issues.
GOAL commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
GOAL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees. We foster an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and valued, we are particularly eager to receive applications from women (and other underrepresented groups).
We know that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.