Role Overview
Job Title: Head of Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I)
Start Date: September 2025,
Salary: €60k-70k DOE | Plus Work Phone and Laptop | Business Expenses | Company pension with employer contribution | Engineers Ireland CPD certification
Location: The beautiful grounds of St Kieran's College in the vibrant city of Kilkenny. Working from home, at agreed times will be considered
Contract Type: This is a two-year fixed-term contract, with a strong possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and the strategic development of the RD&I function within the organisation.
Working Hours: Full time – Mon to Friday. 37.5hr/ week standard contract
Person Specification
SEEA is working with various stakeholders in the domestic, public, private & community sectors to provide independent brokering, technical support and advice.
The South East Energy Agency seeks an experienced and dynamic leader to spearhead its R&D & Innovation initiatives. The Head of RD&I will lead a multidisciplinary team working on applied research, knowledge transfer, and pilot projects across regional, national, and international partnerships. The primary goal is to facilitate the transition of Ireland's South East region into a more efficient, low-carbon, and sustainable rural energy landscape by leveraging cutting-edge technological advancements and best practices.
Role Overview
Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive R&D & Innovation strategy aligned with regional energy transition goals and national climate targets.
Project Management & Delivery: Lead, coordinate, and oversee applied research projects, pilot initiatives, and knowledge transfer activities with regional, national, and international partners.
Partnership Development: Build and maintain collaborative relationships with universities, research institutions, industry stakeholders, government agencies, and international bodies.
Funding & Grants: Identify funding opportunities, lead proposal development, and manage budgets for R&D projects, ensuring compliance and optimal resource utilization.
Technical Expertise: Stay abreast of emerging technologies, policy developments, and best practices related to clean energy, smart grids, rural electrification, and low-carbon solutions.
Knowledge Transfer & Capacity Building: Facilitate dissemination of research outcomes through workshops, publications, and training programs to promote regional adoption of innovative solutions.
Monitoring & Reporting: Establish KPIs, monitor project progress, and prepare reports for stakeholders, funders, and policy-makers.
Quality and Compliance
· Adhere to the company's Quality Management System requirements, including performing work according to process documents, procedures, and maintaining necessary records
· Understand and apply quality and environmental policy statements in all aspects of work
· Ensure that the needs and requirements of the company's customers are understood and delivered
· Enhance the company's internal processes and management system by reporting corrective actions, updates, and improvement ideas
· Continuous improvement on advancements in retrofit materials, methods, and regulations.
Additional Responsibilities
· Perform additional duties as assigned by the CEO depending on the organisation's workload
· Contribute to achieving the company's objectives
The Ideal Candidate
Qualification and Experience
· Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in Engineering, Renewable Energy, Environmental Science, or a related field.
· Proven experience (minimum 8 years) in leading applied research, innovation projects, or R&D teams within the energy or environmental sectors.
· Demonstrable success in managing multi-partner projects, especially those involving regional, national, and international collaborations.
· Experience in securing and managing public and private sector funding, grants, and partnerships.
· Knowledge of European and Irish energy policies, funding mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks.
· Availability to travel regionally, nationally, and internationally.
· Specific knowledge of the Irish regulatory environment is preferred
Skills & Competencies:
· Strong leadership and team management skills.
· Excellent strategic planning and project management capabilities.
· Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
· Technical expertise in low-carbon energy technologies, smart grids, energy efficiency, and rural energy solutions.
· Ability to translate research into practical, scalable solutions for regional deployment.
· Fluency in English; additional European languages are advantageous.
Personal Attributes:
· Innovative thinker with a proactive approach.
· Passionate about sustainable development and regional energy transition.
· Collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal skills.
· Results-oriented with a focus on delivering impactful outcomes.
How to Apply?
Please complete the Application Form available on and return to Joanne Brennan at with a subject line 'Head of Research Development and Innovation" telling us more about yourself, your experience/ambitions. Please also indicate your earliest available starting date
NOTE. If you do not wish that we contact current or past employers, please state so and explain the reasons in your letter of motivation. All applications will be treated confidentially and by respecting the privacy of the candidate. Applications that do not meet the deadline will be excluded.
South East Energy Agency is an equal opportunities employer. *Note: your CV may be attached but will not substitute for a completed South East Energy Agency Application Form.
Job Type: Fixed term
Contract length: 24 months
Pay: €60,000.00-€70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee assistance program
* On-site parking
* Work from home
Experience:
* Leading research, innovation projects within energy sector: 8 years (required)
Work authorisation:
* Ireland (required)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 30/09/2025