Public Affairs Executive

Position Description  

The Public Affairs function’s role is to drive positive stakeholder relationships and, in doing so, enhance the reputation of ESB Group. 

The Public Affairs Executive is a key member of this small team, assisting in engagement with Houses of the Oireachtas Members and other key stakeholders. 

Responsibilities include efficient delivery of Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and Representations from Members or the Oireachtas as well as from other key stakeholders, including the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (DCEE) in a timely manner. Good judgement, problem-solving, and writing skills are crucial elements of this work. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Collate ESB responses to Parliamentary Questions and Representations through liaison with key internal ESB stakeholders, drafting provisional answers for approval by Manager Public Affairs or other Senior Managers/Executive Directors as appropriate.

• Build relationships across ESB Group to secure expert inputs and timely responses for relevant subject matter experts 

• Exercise judgement in drafting plain-English responses to ensure that all answers are clear, contain no jargon and that they enhance the reputation of ESB.

• Monitor political developments, particularly Houses of the Oireachtas debates and upcoming legislation.

• Assist in the preparation of internal and external reports.

Experience and Qualifications 

Essential 

• Minimum two years’ experience in a relevant role (e.g. public affairs agency, public utility, civil/public service).

• Strong drafting and writing skills, with good attention to detail and ability to deliver to deadlines.

• Good judgment, as well as strong analytical and research skills.

• Excellent proficiency in MS Word, MS Excel and MS PowerPoint.

• Strong interpersonal, problem-solving and stakeholder management skills.

• Ability to work on own initiative.

Desirable  

• A third level degree in an appropriate discipline.

• A proven track record of delivery and an ability to track multiple agenda items continuously.

• Interest in developing a career in Public Affairs.

• A good phone manner.

• Event management experience.

Location  

This position will be based in ESB Head Office, 27 Fitzwilliam St, Dublin 2. 

ESB is committed to smart working – combining digital tools with a culture of trust and empowerment to enable flexible ways of working. The successful candidate may work flexibly within their jurisdiction with attendance at the workplace for in-person collaboration on at least two anchor days per week. All smart working arrangements are subject to manager approval and ongoing review, based on the operational requirements of the role, the team, and the individual.