Head of Risk, Governance & Digital Transformation
Skillnet Ireland is a business support agency of the Government of Ireland. Our mandate is to advance the competitiveness of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with more than 57 enterprise bodies, providing talent development, upskilling and innovative business supports to 24,035 businesses and 90,136 workers throughout the country every year. The agency has been recognised as an international best-practice model by the European Commission, the OECD and the ILO, among others.
Our mission is to “help businesses in Ireland to be the best they can be, through innovative and enterprise-driven people development”. We partner directly with companies and industry groups to ensure we understand their needs and talent priorities. We also help companies understand and embrace innovation and build business competitiveness through skills development.
Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Skillnet Ireland is a member of the European Pact for Skills. The organisation actively participates in several skills development projects with European partners. These projects are co-funded by the European Union and support the development of digital and sustainability skills in Irish businesses and organisations.
Role Overview
Skillnet Ireland invites applications for the position of Head of Risk, Governance Digital Transformation. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and serving as a member of the executive team, this role has full responsibility for:
Governance, Risk Compliance
Data Governance
ICT Digital Transformation
Project Management
Leadership of a multidisciplinary team
Key Responsibilities
Governance, Risk Compliance
Lead the development, implementation and oversight of governance, risk and compliance frameworks.
Ensure alignment with statutory, regulatory and audit requirements.
Support reporting to the Board and the Audit Risk Committee.
Data Governance
Establish and embed a robust data governance framework, including data quality, security and reporting standards.
Oversee the organisation’s data strategy to support decision‑making, performance monitoring and business intelligence.
Digital Transformation ICT
Lead the delivery of ICT and digital transformation initiatives across the organisation.
Oversee the development of management information systems and data analytics capabilities.
Manage relationships with technology partners, vendors and service providers.
Project Leadership
Oversee function strategic projects, ensuring strong delivery governance, clear timelines and benefits realisation.
Drive cross‑functional collaboration and ensure alignment with organisational strategy.
People Leadership
Lead, mentor and develop a team across governance, risk, data and ICT functions.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.
The Individual
Qualifications
A third‑level degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., accountancy, business administration, finance, computing, management).
A postgraduate qualification (MBA, MSc) or a professional qualification in accountancy, audit, finance, corporate governance, programme management or information systems is highly desirable.
Experience Expertise
Senior management experience (typically 6+ years) in a complex organisation, ideally a Government agency or publicly funded enterprise.
Proven track record in delivering operational performance improvements, efficiency gains, business transformation (particularly digital/ICT), and change management.
Experience leading enterprise‑level ICT or digital programmes, including vendor governance, system specification, integration, data strategy and technology procurement.
Strong background in corporate governance, risk management and compliance frameworks, with experience supporting Board or Audit/Risk Committees.
Demonstrated ability to interpret complex business objectives and use data‑driven insights to improve operational efficiency and innovate processes.
Competencies
Excellent communicator with the ability to articulate vision, influence stakeholders and present to senior audiences.
Change‑driven mindset with the confidence to challenge the status quo and embed new ways of working.
High emotional intelligence with the ability to manage ambiguity, competing priorities and complex stakeholder environments.
Strong commercial awareness and a hands‑on approach to delivering results.
Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a strong understanding of lean principles and experience implementing large‑scale continuous improvement programmes.
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, both written and verbal.
Application Details
Applicants are invited to submit their application through the Skillnet Ireland Careers page and should include:
A comprehensive CV
A short application letter (maximum two pages) outlining key achievements and demonstrating how their skills, experience, motivation, and values align with the requirements of the role
Closing Date: 5.00 p.m., Tuesday, 30th June 2026.
Selection Process
Shortlisting based on application materials
Preliminary interview
Final competency‑based interview, which may include a written exercise and a strategic presentation
Psychometric testing
Comprehensive reference checks
An attractive and competitive package will be offered to the successful candidate.
Skillnet Ireland operates a hybrid working model for roles that meet business and suitability criteria. Skillnet Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer that values equity, diversity and inclusion as we recognise the benefits it can bring to our workforce, our partners and external stakeholders.
If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please do not hesitate to contact us.
