External Affairs Office Coordinator

Job Overview: SETU is committed to driving the economic, social and cultural development of the South East region and in doing so has a strong reputation for collaboration with regional, national and international stakeholders. Through its governance, teaching and learning, student engagement and research activities SETU has a diverse range of partnerships with employers, government agencies, public sector organisations, enterprise, community and cultural groups. The Office of External Affairs which is part of the President's Directorate, is responsible for the development of a professional and coordinated interface between the University and external stakeholders. The successful candidate will lead and oversee the administrative functions and operational management of the Office of External Affairs. The role will involve the ongoing coordination of projects, communications, systems development and operations of a central institutional function for External Affairs. This is a diverse and challenging role requiring a range of interpersonal, analytical and organisational skills and high levels of motivation and initiative. The candidate needs to have experience of engaging with multiple stakeholders both internal and external to the University.

Duties: • Act as an initial point of contact for industry or external organisations seeking to engage with SETU, triage such inquiries and work with internal units / staff and external organisations to advise, nurture and assist with the creation of effective collaborations • Work closely with colleagues across the University to develop a holistic, integrated approach (including structures, systems and processes) to the University’s external collaborations with business, public sector and other external organisations • Work with colleagues and partners on proposal development and project management for business and community engagement and regional development projects • Work with the Faculties, Departments and other central functions to prepare case materials and publications highlighting the University’s partnerships with its diverse range of stakeholders • Work with the Marketing Office in preparing press releases and coordinating other media activities relating to the Office of External Affairs • Develop and maintain the Engagement section of the SETU website and lead on the Office’s social media and communication activities • Participate in and support relevant internal committees relating to external affairs and engagement • Participate in / contribute to relevant external committees or network activities as required • Oversee the implementation and ongoing operations of appropriate information systems to capture the University’s engagement activities • Support the implementation of strategic projects led by the External Affairs function • Support the development and roll out of policies, training, awards and events led by the External Affairs function • Manage the collation of the Office’s statistics and reports as required • Manage the Office’s operational and project budgets as required • Engage in other duties as may be assigned by the VP for External Affairs. PERSON SPECIFICATION

Academic Qualifications An Honours degree (2.2 or higher) in a relevant Level 8 degree [as specified in the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)] or equivalent professional qualification awarded by a recognised degree-awarding body Experience • At least 3 years post qualification work experience • Experience of interacting with diverse stakeholders such as industry, public sector organisations, regional economic development agencies, or funding agencies • Project management • Marketing/Communications experience Specific knowledge and skills • Excellent written, numerical and analytical skills • Self-motivated and proactive. • Sound judgement and problemsolving skills • Ability to multi-task, accurately receive and record information, and professionally, succinctly and clearly communicate with stakeholders in a fast-paced environment • Excellent personal organisation and time management skills • Experience of coordinating events / workshops (virtual or in person) I.T. Skills

• Excellent Computer Skills

- Proficiency in Microsoft Suite to include Word, Excel and PowerPoint • Knowledge and experience of social media and website platforms Specific Personal Qualities • Ability to use initiative and achieve goals • Proven ability to work independently Salary: The gross salary applicable to the post of Grade V1 is: €55,643 – 67,980 p.a. on a full time basis (as at 01/01/2024)