Who we are
The Irish Foster Care Association is the representative body for foster care in Ireland. Child-centred and rights-based, IFCA promotes family-based solutions for children and young people in ‘out of home’ care. We are committed to supporting excellence in foster care in Ireland so that children have the best chances in life. We provide information, support, learning opportunities and advocacy for all those involved in foster care.
Mission Statement
The Irish Foster Care Association is the national organisation that supports foster families and the wider fostering community. We advance and promote best practice in foster care through support, learning and advocacy.
IFCA Values
We value:
The rights of the child
The role of family in a child’s life
Respect, compassion and kindness
Effective partnerships and open communications
Innovation and research through communications activities.
Reports to: The National Service Manager reports to the CEO.
The National Service Manager
The National Service Manager is responsible for ensuring the delivery of a wide range of services to support IFCA members. Services include (but not limited to) advocacy, national support helpline, learning and support through our network of branches and hubs. Working closely with the CEO, the National Service Manager will implement IFCA’s strategic plan for the delivery of services to members.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Delivery of Services
Contribute to and deliver IFCA’s strategic plan for the delivery of services to members meeting key performance indicators
Ensure the delivery of a range of quality services to IFCA members
Work closely with the manager for Membership and Volunteers to ensure a cohesive service delivery for IFCA recognising and appreciating the valuable role which volunteers contribute to the delivery of IFCA’s work.
Coordinate the planning and delivery of IFCA’s Annual National Conference
Identify new areas of service for delivery with the team to meet the emergent needs of IFCA members
Team
Manage the service delivery team
Provide induction to new staff
Contribute to a positive working environment
Provide supervision to staff
Identify the professional development of staff
Convene team meetings and service reviews
Networking
Build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders
Represent IFCA as requested by the CEO
Report Writing
Coordinate the collation of data to inform reports and advocacy issues
Develop and publish reports as required
Develop thematic analysis to inform service delivery from IFCA’s record management system
IT
Capture data for services drawing from IFCA’s CRM system
Ensure that data and records are stored in IFCA’s records system
Competencies:
Good time management skills and dependability
Proven track record in the management of services
Excellent interpersonal, oral/written communication skills
Ability to lead a team and enthuse colleagues
An understanding of foster care and a passion for quality and innovation in the service
Ability to work independently and take the initiative within the operational parameters set by the CEO
Understanding and knowledge of relevant legislation pertaining to IFCA’s work
Ability to build partnerships with statutory, voluntary and private sector organisations
Understanding of information technology.
Experience & Qualifications
Essential
Relevant third level qualification
A minimum of three years in a management position
Proven track record of delivering services
Experience of working with multiple key stakeholders
Excellent report writing skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Experience of managing staff
Working as part of a team
Desirable
Knowledge of policy, legislation and systems which inform foster care
Terms and Conditions
Full-time 35 hours per week
Location: IFCA Office, Unit 23, Village Green, Tallaght, Dublin 24
Garda Vetting and attendance at Induction training is required
Two satisfactory references of which one should be from the current employer
Access to car and hold a full Irish driving license.
Salary Scale: Salary: €50,935 – €61,418 (9 points)
Please email your CV and cover letter to: HR@ifca.ie
The closing date is 5pm, Monday 1st July 2019.