General Manager

General Manager,

Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society,

The Showgrounds, Clifden, Co. Galway, H71 YA09

Salary: Up to €60,000 per annum

Full time | Office based

The Opportunity

Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society (CPBS) is seeking to appoint a General Manager to lead the effective day-to-day management and operational performance of the Society and to support the Council in the delivery of its governance, strategic, and statutory responsibilities.

This role would particularly suit a candidate with a company secretarial or corporate governance qualification, a strong financial background, and senior management and HR experience, who is comfortable operating in a member based, regulated organisation.

Role Purpose

Reporting to the Council of CPBS, the General Manager is the senior employee of the organisation and is responsible for ensuring that Council decisions, policies, and delegated responsibilities are implemented efficiently, lawfully, and in accordance with the Constitution, relevant legislation, and best practice.

The General Manager does not hold Council or Director authority but may exercise operational authority delegated by the Council from time to time and plays a key professional role in safeguarding governance standards, financial control, compliance, and organisational effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the operational management of CPBS and oversee the performance of all staff

• Support the Council through high‑quality reporting, advice, and implementation of decisions

• Oversee financial management, including budgeting, management accounts, and liaison with accountants and auditors

• Ensure compliance with governance, regulatory, and accreditation requirements

• Lead HR and people management, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and best practice

• Manage organisational risk and ensure appropriate controls are in place

• Represent CPBS professionally with stakeholders, regulators, and at Society events

Ideal Candidate

• Significant senior management experience in a regulated, charity, or member‑based organisation

• Strong expertise in governance, compliance, and board support

• Proven experience in financial oversight and budgeting

• Sound HR and people management experience

• Excellent judgement, discretion, and communication skills

Desirable:

• Company secretarial, corporate governance, legal, or finance qualification

• Experience working closely with Boards or Councils

Working Conditions

• Office‑based, onsite

• 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

• Attendance required at Society events, which may include weekends and public holidays

• Competitive annual leave entitlement, commensurate with a senior management role

Why Join CPBS?

This is a rare opportunity to take on a senior leadership role in a respected, nationally important organisation, combining governance, operational leadership, finance, and people management, while working closely with an experienced and committed Council.

Closing Date for applications is 23rd July 2026