The Ireland-United States (Fulbright) Commission for Educational Exchange is an international body established by the U.S. Department of State and Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs to operate educational and cultural exchanges between Ireland and the United States. The Fulbright Program was created in 1946 by the United States to increase international mutual respect and understanding. Although the Fulbright program has operated in Ireland since 1957, in 1988 a bilateral agreement between Ireland and the U.S. led to the establishment by Irish legislation of the Ireland-United States (Fulbright) Commission for Educational Exchange in 1992.
The Fulbright Commission in Ireland annually awards grants for Irish citizens to study, research, or teach in the U.S. and for Americans to do the same in Ireland. Since its formation, over 2,000 postgraduate students, scholars, professionals, and teachers have participated in the program. The Commission annually awards approximately 50 Fulbright scholarships. In recent years, the Commission has extended its activities to include promoting study in the U.S. as a member of the EducationUSA network and co-ordinating Irish Language awards and exchanges on behalf of the Ireland’s Department of Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht.
Working collaboratively across the sponsor departments, the higher education sector, NGO* and cultural sectors, the Executive Director reports to the bi-national Fulbright Commission Board and leads a team of 3 in the development and administration of the various award schemes to high quality standards. The role requires an individual with a creative and innovative approach to outreach and development, an ability to network internationally and to build strong partnerships with sponsors and donor organizations.
The ideal candidate will have a background that includes:
• an international dimension through study, research or work experience;
• past experience in development work and or building partnerships with key stakeholders;
• the ability to lead a team in strategic planning and the delivery of high quality services;
• familiarity with the public and university sectors;
• the diplomatic, advocacy and communication skills to balance expectations across a broad stakeholder community;
• strong administration and financial management skills;
• some Irish language ability (desirable but not required);
• familiarity with social media and other communications tools;
• the willingness to travel within Ireland and internationally;
• experience and demonstrated interest in international academic and professional exchange.
This is a stimulating leadership role for an innovative and experienced individual to make a contribution to the development of a strong and established suite of programmes and to continue their evolution at this very positive stage.http://redirect.state.sbu/?
For a confidential discussion please call Ellen Roche, Director, Executive Search PwC, 01 792 6703 or Adrienne Harten, Senior Manager, Executive Search PwC, 01 792 7737.
Applications to include a comprehensive CV and a personal statement setting out your motivation for the role and the evidence of your ability to contribute to the Fulbright Commission should be sent toelizabeth.michuda@ie.pwc.com.
*Non-governmental organisations.