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Job description

As a key member of the Communications, Engagement and Partnership Department, you will play a vital role in shaping how Extern understands and communicates the impact of its services and support with insight on matters of policy, social justice and lobbying. This role involves designing, conducting, and reporting on research and insights to inform service development, public consultations, influence policy in NI and ROI and internal strategic reporting. You will also support the creation of Extern’s Annual Reports and other materials and contribute to tender applications through evidence-based insights and collaborative input.

Responsibilities

• Assess and Understand Current Systems: Gain a deep understanding of our existing data collection tools, systems, and processes to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Align with Strategic Data Needs: Map out current and future insight and research requirements in line with our new 5-year strategy, Vision 2030, ensuring we’re equipped to measure progress and impact effectively.
• Innovate Through ‘Test and Learn’: Design and implement ‘test and learn’ approaches to explore improvements, close gaps in research and insights, and refine our data practices.
• Empower Teams with Better Tools and Processes: Develop practical approaches to support staff in using data tools and systems, enhancing their ability to gather meaningful insights and conduct analysis.
• Build a Strong Evidence Base: Contribute to the development of a robust evaluation framework across key programmes, and share learnings to inform future planning and innovation.
• Create Insightful Reporting Tools: Design a flexible reporting template to help communicate insights, research findings, and data analysis clearly to a range of internal and external audiences.
• Collaborate: Work closely with colleagues across teams, as well as with peer organisations, academic partners, and external stakeholders to develop research, share knowledge and strengthen our collective impact.
• Understand Government Policy: Build an understanding of policy issues that relate to Extern services and the sector across the island of Ireland.
• Adhere to safeguarding procedures and relevant internal and external policies and standards at all times. Report safeguarding concerns, in a timely manner, in line with Extern policy.
• Be responsible for keeping abreast of current legislation and Extern’s policies and procedures and attend appropriate training as and when required to ensure your own personal CPD remains current.
• Develop and maintain appropriate professional relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, both internal and external.
• Be aware and adhere to confidentiality requirements in accordance with Extern’s procedures. Ensure records management are accurate and up to date at all times and in line with GDPR for areas under your remit.
• Adhere to Extern’s Health & Safety Policies and Procedures. Take reasonable care for the health and safety of yourselves and of other people who may be affected by your work
• Conform to all rules, Extern’s Health & Safety Procedures, safe systems of work and not improvise by using methods, tools or equipment which entail unnecessary risk.
• Carry out any other duties reasonably requested by the organisation.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• A relevant third-level qualification and 1 year professional experience or in the absence of a relevant qualification a minimum of 3 years relatable work experience.
• Full driving licence and access to own car, with appropriate business insurance, to include travel throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
• Flexibility to travel to Extern offices throughout the island of Ireland as and when required.