An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police and security service comprising 14,200 Garda Members and 3,700 Garda Staff, is seeking an exceptional Chief Information Officer to lead our Data and Technology Leadership team. This permanent, full-time senior leadership role is based in Dublin and offers the opportunity to shape the technological future of Irish policing while managing substantial capital and operating budgets.
About the Role
The Chief Information Officer will spearhead data and technology initiatives across An Garda Síochána, understanding data as a critical organizational asset while leading governance, analytics, quality, and security functions. Working directly with the Data and Technology Leadership team, you’ll architect organizational and operating models that align with modern techniques and best practices. This strategic role involves significant budget oversight and requires demonstrated excellence in governance, government policy adherence, and efficient public resource management.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead technology strategy and implementation across AI, machine learning, cloud adoption, and cybersecurity initiatives for Ireland’s largest law enforcement organization
- Oversee substantial capital and operating expenditure budgets while ensuring adherence to government policy and efficient use of public resources
- Collaborate with policing leadership to understand current and future organizational needs, developing deep expertise in law enforcement operations and requirements
- Manage data governance, analytics, quality, and security functions to maximize data value as an organizational asset
- Shape organizational and operating models for the Data and Technology Leadership function, implementing modern techniques and industry best practices
- Navigate legacy and traditional technology challenges while maintaining critical business resilience and continuity requirements
- Drive digital transformation initiatives including advances in digital disruption, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cloud technologies
Required Qualifications
Essential Requirements
- Senior executive experience in technology leadership roles, preferably within large public sector or complex organizations
- Proven track record in managing substantial technology budgets and delivering large-scale digital transformation programs
- Deep expertise in data governance, analytics, cybersecurity, cloud adoption, and AI/machine learning implementations
- Strong understanding of government policy frameworks, public sector governance, and regulatory compliance requirements
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with operational leadership teams and translate business needs into technology solutions
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in law enforcement, security, or public safety technology environments
- Advanced qualifications in information technology, data science, or related fields
- Track record in legacy system modernization while maintaining operational continuity
- Leadership experience in organizational transformation and change management programs
What We Offer
- Competitive public sector salary commensurate with senior executive level
- Comprehensive benefits package including pension scheme and professional development opportunities
- Opportunity to lead cutting-edge technology initiatives in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics within Ireland’s premier law enforcement organization
- Strategic leadership role in shaping the future of Irish policing through the “Policing Service for Our Future” transformation program
- Collaborative work environment with opportunity to make significant impact on community safety and security
- Professional development in emerging technologies and public sector innovation
- Work-life balance with modern working arrangements and support for continuous learning
Ready to Apply?
Join An Garda Síochána as we continue our significant organizational transformation and implement far-reaching changes including the new Policing, Security and Community Safety Act (2024). This is a unique opportunity to lead technology innovation in Irish policing while contributing to our mission of “Keeping People Safe.”
Application Deadline: Thursday, 4th September 2025 at 3:00 PM
For a confidential discussion about this significant opportunity, contact Ms. Julie Hoey at [email protected]
