REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER WANTED

Due to the ongoing growth and expansion of the organisation, the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI) wish to appoint a Regional Development Officer on a contract basis. This is an exciting opportunity to grow the visibility and impact of the design sector in Ireland.
The IDI is the largest representative body for commercial designers in Ireland, representing the breadth of design disciplines from digital design, graphic and communications design, architecture and interior design, through to emerging strategic design practice such as service design and design thinking for business. The IDI is in an ambitious new phase of development and is committed to unlocking the potential of the Irish design sector in order to meet its purpose – to drive the standard of commercial Irish design.
Following research that identified the need for greater connection between the design sector and government supported entities in the west of Ireland, this newly created role will operate within the Regional Enterprise Plans and support the growth of enterprise within the creative sector.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The vision for this role is to position the design industry in the Atlantic Innovation Region as a competitive advantage on the global stage. This will be achieved through structured and strategic collaboration with relevant stakeholders in the Atlantic region to plan and implement a programme of actions in 2023, with a key output being a 5-year business development plan through to 2027. Consortium partners include Sligo County Council, Western Development Commission, CREW, Connected Hubs (including An Croí and Ludgate Hub Skibbereen), FutureCast and has been made possible thanks to the support of Creative Ireland.
Areas of responsibility:
Developing and implementing a regional development strategy for the Design Industry in the Atlantic Innovation Corridor supporting the development and scaling of creative digital entrepreneurs, job creation, incubation and accelerator programmes, training, and outreach services.
Identifying and building partnerships and collaborations with relevant organisations
Senior stakeholder engagement
Budget responsibility
Monitoring and evaluating regional development initiatives and regular consortium updates
Liaison with IDI members
Identification of opportunities to promote and grow the IDI and Design Skillnet
ABOUT YOU
The ideal candidate will embody the cultural values of the IDI – Connection, Curiosity and Charisma.
You have significant professional experience working in a role relevant to this position, either in the design sector or the public/education sector.
You are an experienced negotiator and influencer, comfortable working with a diverse range of stakeholders including the C-suite/business leadership, public sector agencies and commercial designers.
You are a self-starting, driven individual who can work independently, reporting to the CEO, and as part of a team.
You possess the ability to think strategically and deliver in execution - have a deep understanding of the importance of planning, process and structure in enabling efficient delivery of a project, with the ability to prioritise and multi-task.
Essential Requirements
A relevant third level degree and/or professional qualification in the following disciplines: Marketing, Communications/PR, Business Development, Design
3-5 years’ experience in a regional/business development role
A strong background in project/campaign management
A strong background in the creative/design industry a plus
Full clean driving license and access to a vehicle
Availability for overnight stays where necessary
Benefits
· Flexible working – 3.5 days per week with opportunities for hybrid working.
· Competitive salary - €35,700 PA, full time equivalent €59,500 PA.
· 23 days holiday entitlement, pro rated.
· Mileage allowance for travel
Closing Date: Tuesday 2nd May 2023
Please include a cover letter that outlines your reasons for applying and how your qualifications and experience make you the ideal candidate for the position.