HEAD OF PEOPLE

COPE Galway is a local Galway charity that has been providing social services in Galway since the 1965. With a vision of a community where every person is valued, cared for and supported at every stage of life, the organisation provides essential support services for people who are homeless, women and children experiencing domestic abuse and older people. COPE Galway works together with community partners, groups, businesses and individuals, to help some of the most vulnerable and isolated men, women and children in Galway. THE POSITION As Head of People, you will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and play a key role in shaping both the culture and overall strategic direction of the organisation as a member of the Senior Leadership Team. With responsibility for the performance and leadership of the People function, you will drive practices that nurture a positive, inclusive, and values-driven culture, enabling staff and volunteers to thrive while delivering high-quality services in a complex and evolving environment. You will place particular emphasis on workforce planning, learning and development, and staff wellbeing - ensuring that COPE Galway is not only a great place to work, but one that empowers people to grow, develop, and contribute at their best. This is a pivotal leadership role, contributing across all areas of the organisation as COPE Galway continues to support and advocate for people in Galway who are vulnerable and isolated. As Head of People, you will be a champion for culture, connection, and growth - ensuring that our staff and volunteers feel valued, supported, and inspired to achieve both individual and collective potential. REQUIREMENTS Candidates should have substantial experience in managing all aspects of Human Resources, including a minimum of five years at senior management level. The role requires strong technical expertise alongside the ability to lead and deliver strategically. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, proactive, and skilled in communication, organisation, and people management. They will also demonstrate a genuine commitment to COPE Galway's mission and to supporting individuals who are at vulnerable stages in their lives. REMUNERATION A competitive remuneration and benefits package will be on offer to successful candidate. HOW TO APPLY If you believe that you meet the requirements necessary to take on this important role, please submit a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae via the available apply option in strictest confidence, for the attention of Eilish Devine, Partner of our retained executive search partners, Principal Connections - executive search on or before 12 noon on Friday 3rd October 2025. For a confidential discussion please contact Eilish Devine on . ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Principal Connections is acting as an employment agency and has been retained to manage this important appointment process. We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity and encourage applications under all nine grounds of the Employment Equality Act. Candidates for this post will be sourced through both an advertised selection and executive search process. Only applications submitted through the available online application options or via the email address provided where a print advertisement will be considered. Please note that any offer of employment will be made subject to satisfactory reference checks as well as any other background checks and / or assessments deemed appropriate to the process. By applying for this vacancy with Principal Connections, you accept the Term's & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Cookies Policy which can be found on our website. ABOUT PRINCIPAL CONNECTIONS Principal Connections is a leading executive search and leadership consulting firm serving organisations across Ireland, the United Kingdom and internationally. We are also part of Agilium Worldwide LLC (Est. 1984), independently ranked one of the world's top global executive search groups. (55+ offices, 30+ countries, 250+ consultants). Visit our other Live Assignments Skills : Human Resources People and Culture Leadership