Our client, the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority (AHRRA) is seeking to appoint their Director of Corporate Affairs.
About the AHRRA
The Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority (AHRRA) is a new, independent Irish statutory authority established under the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Act 2024. The principal function of the AHRRA is to protect, promote and, in so far as is practicable, ensure the health and well-being of children born as a result of AHR, persons undergoing AHR treatment, and intending parents. The AHRRA will regulate AHR and surrogacy by licensing treatment providers, publishing codes of practice, approving surrogacy agreements that comply with the Act, maintaining databases and registers to be established under the Act, as well as other functions as required.
Role Purpose
This is an exciting new opportunity for a person to fill a new role as Director of Corporate Affairs. The Corporate Affairs Directorate develops, leads and implements the services that underpins and enables the AHRRA to succeed and achieve its goals, communications strategies maintaining the AHRRA’s organisational performance, effectiveness and transparency.
It is a key function, enabling and supporting all other Divisions across the AHRRA in the areas of Human Resources, Finance, Information Technology, Public Relations, and Facilities Management.
As the AHRRA evolves in regulatory remit and scale, the Director of Corporate Affairs will play a critical role in promoting considered but positive ways to evolve culture and ethos of the AHRRA supporting the necessary corresponding structures so that directorates collaborate and interoperate in a non-siloed manner.
Key Requirements
Essential Criteria
- Proven experience (at least 5 years) in senior leadership role/s overseeing corporate governance, finance, HR, and IT functions within a regulatory environment.
- In-depth knowledge of regulatory compliance frameworks, industry regulations, and governance best practices.
- Strong financial acumen, analytical skills, and proficiency in financial management systems.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams, drive organisational change, and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Strategic mindset, with the ability to anticipate emerging trends, assess risks, and develop proactive strategies to address challenges.
- An understanding of public sector management, corporate governance and its applicability to an organisation such as the AHRRA.
- Working knowledge of the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies 2016 and its requirements.
Desirable Criteria
- Knowledge of professional regulatory processes and procedures
- Experience in the operation of State agencies with a regulatory remit.
In addition to the above, candidates must also be able to demonstrate the Key Competencies identified for effective performance at Principal Officer (PO) level. PO is a senior leadership position and the full narrative for the competencies can be found in the candidate booklet.
Eligibility to Work in Ireland
Appointment to this role is subject to the candidate's eligibility to work in Ireland. Candidate must meet one of the following at the time of application:
- A citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA consists of the Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway; or
- A citizen of the United Kingdom (UK); or
- A citizen of Switzerland pursuant to the agreement between the EU and Switzerland on the free movement of persons; or
- A non-EEA citizen who has a Stamp 4 permission* or a Stamp 5 permission
- *Please note that a 50 TEU Visa, which is a replacement for Stamp 4EUFAM after Brexit, is acceptable as a Stamp 4 equivalent.
How to Apply
Candidates are required to submit an application form and upload a copy of their CV, and a cover letter (maximum two pages) demonstrating how their skills, experience, and achievements meet the essential criteria for the role. To apply for this role please click the 'Apply Now' button below. Applications must be submitted before the application closing date.
Closing date: Tuesday 27th October 2026, 12 noon
Please note that late applications or applications not received through the correct channel, as indicated above, will not be considered. Applicants should note that canvassing will result in your exclusion from the process.
The AHRRA is an equal opportunities employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We strive to create a workplace where everyone has equal access to opportunities and feels valued, respected and supported to be their authentic selves.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided, where required, throughout the recruitment process. To discuss or request accommodations in confidence, please contact [email protected].
Should you have any questions, please contact [email protected].
