Job Description
Key responsibilities:
The Head of Research will work directly with the CEO to co-ordinate AONTAS’ current research initiatives and build the organisation’s capacity for research in the area of adult education by:
Delivering Research
Project managing all current research projects and initiatives (e.g. The National FET Learner Forum, The Adult Learner Journal, community education research projects, etc.)
Support the development of key research publications, ensuring all research outputs are developed to the highest standards
Monitor all research outputs and budgetary spending, ensuring project is delivered to the agreed deadlines and budgets
Communicate regularly with funders and key stakeholders to share project developments
Ensure AONTAS’ advocacy work has a strong evidence-base to inform and strengthen our representation and policy submissions at national level
Supporting Organisational Research Capacity
Leading the research team to ensure each member meets all established KPIs for the year
Collaborating with the AONTAS leadership team to ensure strategic initiatives are being met
Collaborating with AONTAS’ advocacy team to ensure research is meeting key ongoing advocacy needs
Working in collaboration with the Senior Research Officer, to maintain all domestic and international partnerships with stakeholders in the NGO and academic sector, facilitating research exchanges and supporting ongoing project initiatives
Ensure all staff are informed of ongoing research work and key findings
Promoting AONTAS’ research profile
Help grow the organisation’s reputation for distinctive and high-quality research on educational equality
Attend conferences and dissemination events that will inform the organisation’s current research findings and inform the organisation’s future research
Attend conferences and dissemination events that will inform the organisation’s current research findings and direct/guide the organisation’s future research
Work with AONTAS’ communications team to promote the organisation’s research initiatives
Represent AONTAS research team at consultations and external advisory groups as needed
Line Management
The Head of Research direct line report is to the CEO of AONTAS.
Contribute to developing AONTAS
At all times, operate to the highest professional, ethical and performance standards. This includes adapting to changing circumstances in AONTAS and undertaking, surrendering or realigning any responsibility, within reason, the CEO requires. This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive and may vary from time to time.
Measures of Success
Effective administrative support for the successful implementation of the National Further Education and Training Learner Forum, community education research, the Adult Learner Journal, and Learner Voice Initiatives
A supportive and encouraging team environment with strong communication, and positive working relationships.
Candidate Profile

Core Requirements
Demonstrable experience of leading qualitative or mixed-methods research projects, confidence with research methodology and fieldwork practice
Experience in research analysis for action
Experience with supervision of staff or management role of researchers on different projects
Experience working in research designed for public policy and advocacy
Track record of a range of publications for diverse audiences, including policy-makers and the public
Capacity and confidence to manage multiple ongoing projects

Required Experience
Master degree in the social science or humanities field (preferably in the area of education)
Strong qualitative and quantitative analytical skills, including experience using software packages such as SPSS and Excel
A minimum of two or more years working in the NGO and/or public service sector
Knowledge and experience of the Irish adult and/or community education sector
Experience with public speaking and stakeholder engagement
Ability to oversee and manage budgets connected to large-scale research projects with proven project management experience

Personal Characteristics
High level of professional responsibility and integrity
Ability to multi-task and deliver on multiple organisational/strategic priorities
Commitment to goals of educational equality, social justice, and empowerment
Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders in a constructive and approachable manner
Proven communications skills, responsive and efficient in the delivery of work
Capacity to work in partnership with colleagues and stakeholders
Excellent digital literacy, including MS Office, Teams, Zoom, and other platforms.
Benefits of working in AONTAS
AONTAS provides a flexible working approach. Therefore, this role will allow for both at-home and in-office working through a hybrid approach.
Pay
The salary offered will be commensurate with experience and will be within the parameters of the salary scale: €49,226 – €60,462
Hours
The AONTAS Office is open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday to Friday and this role involves 37 hours per week (excluding breaks).
Contract term and probation
2 years fixed term
A probation period of six months will apply
Annual Leave
The annual leave for this role is 29 days.
Pension
AONTAS offers an attractive pension scheme and income protection scheme for staff, after successful probation period.
Career progression
AONTAS supports the professional development of staff through education and training opportunities, engagement in peer learning, and individual support and supervision sessions.

Organisational culture
AONTAS is committed to creating a working environment that enables all staff to fulfil their potential. We are communication-centred, action-focused, collaborative and supportive organisation. AONTAS is an organisation where you can bring your skills and expertise to shape our work. We offer continuous professional development opportunities, mentoring, and one-to-one meetings. We are guided by the principles of the organisation and take responsibility to deliver our work to the best of our ability as we strive for educational equality.

The Recruitment Process
AONTAS uses Workable an online software system. Please use this link to complete your application. Emailed applications will not be accepted.
Workable Link https://apply.workable.com/aontas/j/E0E7A76D78/

Selection Process
All applicants will receive an acknowledgement of their application and final notification of the outcome of their application.
Please apply with your Curriculum Vitae and a letter of motivation by 12:00pm on the 19th May 2022.
Interviews will take place on Tuesday 24th May 2022 in person in AONTAS office.
For further queries please contact John Ryan, Office Manager at 01 406 8220 or by email at jryan@aontas.com.