Strategic Assistant, Department of the Ombudsman at Higher Executive Officer Grade

DOWNLOAD Candidate Information Booklet - Strategic Assisstant (HEO) HERE.pdf

DOWNLOAD Application Form FSPO HEO SA HERE.docx

This role reports directly to the Deputy Ombudsman. The successful candidate will provide high-level, confidential administrative and strategic support to the Deputy, ensuring smooth operations and effective stakeholder engagement. Responsibilities will include managing complex tasks, supporting the adjudication of complaints, conducting data analysis, and driving process improvements. The role requires strong organisational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to think strategically while maintaining a focus on efficiency and results.

·      Provide high-level, confidential administrative and project support to the Deputy Ombudsman. 

·      Support the Deputy Ombudsman’s internal and external engagements, including attending meetings, drafting correspondence, and preparing presentations. 

·      Assist with data analysis, project tracking, and driving deliverables to completion. 

·      Support the Deputy Ombudsman’s complaint adjudication process by reviewing documentation and analysing issues. 

·      Design and implement processes to create efficiencies and eliminate roadblocks. 

·      Manage administrative tasks such as inbox management, communications, and calendar coordination. 

·      Proactively anticipate and address requirements to ensure smooth operations. 

·      Act as a gatekeeper, resolving or redirecting issues that do not require the Deputy Ombudsman’s attention. 

·      Serve as a trusted adviser, providing meaningful input and feedback. 

·      Undertake other tasks as required by the Deputy Ombudsman. 

Candidates must demonstrate, by reference to specific achievements in their career to date, that they possess the necessary experience, skills, knowledge and competencies as required for the role of Higher Executive Officer as identified by the Public Appointments Service Higher Executive Officer level as listed below:  

·       Team Leadership  

·       Judgement, Analysis and Decision Making  

·       Management and Delivery of Results  

·       Interpersonal & Communication Skills  

·       Specialist Knowledge, Expertise and Self Development  

·       Drive and Commitment to Public Service Values     Personal Qualities Required 

 In order to be effective in the role of Strategic Assistant (Higher Executive Officer) in the FSPO, the successful candidate should be:  

·       Extremely organised with strong attention to detail.  

·       A strategic thinker with sound judgement.  

·       Comfortable with data analysis and evidence-based decision-making.  

·       A relationship builder and an effective communicator (written and verbal).  

·       Enthusiastic about building processes to support efficiency and assurance.  

·       Consistent in demonstrating a strong delivery focus and commitment to results.  

·       Discreet, calm and trustworthy, with a clear sense of the role and key support needs of the Deputy Ombudsman.     Essential Requirements: Candidates must demonstrate:    Education:  

·       A recognised qualification (Level 7 or higher)  

·       Executive support at senior leadership level. 

·       Project management and process improvement. 

·       Data analysis and reporting. 

·       Complaints handling or regulatory environments. 

·       Managing complex tasks and priorities. 

·       Working collaboratively with senior management. 

·       Leading or contributing to process design and delivery. 

·       Strong verbal and written communication skills. 

·       Excellent attention to detail. 

·       Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion. 

·       Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools. 

In addition to the essential requirements, it would be a decided advantage for candidates to demonstrate one or both of the following:   

·       Experience in a legal executive role or within an Ombudsman Scheme.  

·       Familiarity with complaints handling or regulatory frameworks. 

Completed application forms must be uploaded via the portal at https://www.consciatalent.com/fspo no later than 5pm (Irish time) on Friday 24th April 2026.

Applications will not be accepted by any other method, nor if received after the closing date. CV's will not be considered .

When outlining your application, accuracy is essential. The information you supply in your application will play a central part of the selection process.

If you do not receive an acknowledgement of receipt of your application within 24 hours, please check your junk/spam folders as email notifications may be filtered here.

The onus is on each applicant to ensure that they are in receipt of all communication from Conscia Limited. Conscia Limited accept no responsibility for communication not accessed or received by an applicant.  

If you have any queries about the role, please contact us at fspo@consciatalent.com

DOWNLOAD Candidate Information Booklet - Strategic Assisstant (HEO) HERE.pdf

DOWNLOAD Application Form FSPO HEO SA HERE.docx