The Assistant Secretary, Chief Information Officer is a pivotal senior leadership role within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, providing strategic direction on ICT, cyber security and digital transformation. Reporting to a Deputy Secretary General, the CIO will shape and deliver technology-enabled services across Ireland’s diplomatic network worldwide.
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This role carries significant national and international impact, supporting over 100 diplomatic missions and major citizen-facing services, including the Passport Service.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead the Department’s ICT, cyber security and digital transformation strategy
• Oversee secure, resilient and high-quality ICT services across global operations
• Drive innovation and process improvement through effective use of technology
• Manage a large ICT division with internal staff and external contractors
• Govern delivery of complex, large-scale ICT programmes and portfolios
• Advise senior Ministers and leadership on digital, cyber and technology risks
• Ensure compliance with national and EU legislation including GDPR and the EU AI Act
Required Skills & Qualifications
• Relevant Level 8 qualification on the National Framework for Qualifications
• Minimum 5 years’ senior leadership experience in ICT or digital environments
• Proven track record delivering complex, large-scale ICT programmes
• Strong knowledge of governance, portfolio and project management frameworks
• Working knowledge of GDPR, EU AI Act and related legislation
• Deep understanding of Irish public administration and policy context
Salary, Benefits & Working Hours
• Grade: Assistant Secretary (Civil Service)
• Contract: Permanent
• Working Pattern: Full-Time
• Salary: In line with Assistant Secretary civil service pay scales
• Benefits include public service pension, annual leave and executive-level supports
Location & Employer Information
• Location: Dublin
• Employer: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
• Workforce of over 3,000 staff in Ireland and abroad
• Global network of 100+ diplomatic missions supporting Ireland’s international interests
Application Details
Candidate Information Booklet and application documentation are available through the application portal.
For a confidential discussion, contact Brian Jackson at [email protected].
Last Day to Apply: 15 January 2026 at 15:00
