The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Communications and Public Affairs Executive to support our mission of representing and supporting Irish exporters. This role combines responsibilities across government affairs, public affairs, and corporate communications, helping to advance our policy agenda, raise the profile of Ireland’s export sector, and engage effectively with members, media, and policymakers. This is an exciting opportunity for an excellent researcher and communications-savvy professional who is passionate about trade, policy, and advocacy.
Roles and responsibilities
Government Affairs:
- Monitor and track national and EU legislation, trade policies, and customs regulations that impact Irish exporters.
- Support engagement with Government bodies, Authorities, State Agencies, Semi-State Agencies, Members, Customer and interest groups. Assist in building relationships with public officials and their staff.
- Support advocacy efforts by researching and delivering coordinated responses to public consultations and government submissions. Prepare briefing documents, talking points, and summaries for CEO. Represent the organisation's interests in trade forums and stakeholder meetings from time to time.
- Organise and prepare for meetings with public officials, industry roundtables, and parliamentary briefings. Prepare CEO briefing notes, policy position papers, and correspondence.
- Support compliance and reporting related to lobbying or political activity.
Public Affairs:
- Assist in planning and executing campaigns and engagement initiatives across webinars, panel discussions, and events involving exporters, key stakeholders, and trade partners.
- Draft public messaging materials, including stakeholder communications and educational content.
- Provide Assistance to members, track stakeholder engagement and maintain databases of contacts, members, and advocacy groups.
- Coordinate logistics and messaging for public events, briefings, and Network meetings.
Corporate Communications:
- Draft press releases, member updates, social media content, newsletters, and web articles focused on trade policy, market insights, and IEA initiatives.
- Oversee the organisation’s editorial calendar, ensuring timely and relevant content across digital and print channels.
- Research, prepare and deliver market updates, trade analysis, and exporter case studies to showcase impact and thought leadership.
- Monitor media coverage on trade and supply chain issues and maintain media and industry contact lists.
- Ensure consistency and accuracy in public messaging, especially regarding complex export regulations or trade developments.
- Compile member success stories and case studies that demonstrate the value of export-led growth.
What we are looking for
- Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Communications, Political Science, Public Policy, or related field.
- 2–4 years of experience in a government affairs, public affairs, communications, or policy role. Experience in a Trade Association or Government Agency is preferred.
- Understanding of the Irish and EU policymaking environment, trade facilitation, and customs processes is a plus.
- Excellent communications, writing and research skills, especially on regulatory and policy topics.
- Experience working with media, trade bodies, or international stakeholders preferred.
- Ability to translate complex policy or regulatory topics into clear, engaging content.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with strong attention to detail.
- Familiarity with CRM systems, media monitoring tools, and event coordination software.
- Flexible approach to work, willing to attend meetings or events which may take place outside normal working hours.
- Full clean driver’s license and own vehicle is desirable.
What you will get in return
- Salary
- Flexible working
- Employee Assistance Program
- Company phone & laptop
Package
- €40,000 -€45,000
- 23 days annual leave
- Flexible working arranges
To apply:
Send a cover letter and CV to: vickicaplin@irishexporters.ie by Friday 27th August.
This is a full time, permanent position. The Irish Exporters Association is an equal opportunities employer.
About the Irish Exporters Association
The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) is the highly progressive and influential independent representative body for Irish Exporters and internationally trading companies. We represent, advocate, educate and assist our members to secure opportunities and overcome challenges nationally and internationally. We provide a seamless set of essential services and play a vital role in guiding members through their export journey.
Joining the Irish Exporters Association (IEA) presents a unique opportunity to work with a highly influential body representing a vital sector of the Irish economy. The Communications and Public Affairs Executive will be responsible for coordinating outreach to key stakeholders, tracking policy developments, supporting media and messaging efforts, and helping to execute the organisation’s communications strategy for the export and international trade sector.
