Current Opportunities

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT – Role Assignment Completed

Balmer Dawson Executive Search is proud to partner with The Mater Hospital Foundation in the search
for their next Director of Development.

This is a remarkable opportunity for a visionary and strategic fundraising leader to join one of Ireland’s
most respected healthcare charities. The successful candidate will play a central role in shaping and
delivering the Foundation’s long-term strategy, driving philanthropic growth, and strengthening its impact
on patients, families, and the wider community.

Reporting to: Chief Executive
Location: Dublin (Hybrid working)
Salary: Circa €90,000 depending on experience
Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)

About the Mater Hospital Foundation

The Mater Hospital Foundation exists to give every patient, and family members, the very best care at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital (MMUH).

As a registered charity and the official fundraising body of the Mater Hospital, the Foundation raises vital funds to support the hospital’s lifesaving work. Through the commitment of their supporters, they invest in advanced medical equipment, hospital redevelopment, research and innovation, and compassionate care initiatives for patients, families, and staff when it is needed most.

About the Role

The Director of Development will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping, driving, and delivering the Foundation’s fundraising and communications strategy. They will be responsible for building the resources, relationships, and visibility required to achieve ambitious growth, ensuring the Foundation’s continued impact and reputation is strengthened.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and leading a talented team of fundraising and communications professionals, they will design and implement a comprehensive and sustainable development strategy aligned with both the hospital’s priorities and the Foundation’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, they will collaborate closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, clinicians, hospital leadership, and key supporters to build enduring partnerships that drive philanthropic investment and measurable impact.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, strategic, and hands-on leader who is passionate about advancing healthcare through purposeful development and meaningful relationship-building.

The Team

The Director of Development will lead and inspire a skilled team across fundraising and communications, including:

  • Marketing & Communications Manager
  • Individual Giving & Legacy Fundraising Manager
  • Corporate Partnerships Manager
  • CRM Manager
  • Community & Events Specialist

Together, they will deliver excellence in donor engagement, philanthropic partnerships, and brand visibility.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

  • Contribute to the Foundation’s strategic direction as part of the Senior Leadership Team, aligning with the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan.
  • Work with the Chief Executive to design and implement an ambitious, sustainable Fundraising and Communications Strategy.
  • Ensure strong governance, performance, and risk management across all activities.
  • Partner with the Director of Finance on forecasting, planning, and financial performance management.
  • Foster a high-performing, collaborative culture that values innovation, accountability, and shared success.

Fundraising Excellence

  • Lead all fundraising operations, maximising existing programmes and developing new income streams.
  • Deliver a diversified, sustainable fundraising portfolio including corporate partnerships, major gifts, individual giving, community and event fundraising, and digital engagement.
  • Achieve and exceed income targets, ensuring performance is measured, evaluated, and optimised.
  • Champion best practice in supporter experience, stewardship, and donor care.
  • Ensure compliance with all fundraising and data protection legislation, maintaining the highest ethical standards.

Philanthropy and Relationship Management

  • Lead the development of a transformative major gifts and philanthropy programme.
  • Build and nurture relationships with high-net-worth individuals, trusts, foundations, and corporate partners.
  • Engage clinicians and hospital leaders in the identification and cultivation of donor relationships.
  • Create compelling cases for support and high-quality proposals that inspire giving and demonstrate impact.
  • Strengthen long-term relationships with existing and potential donors, grateful patients, and key stakeholders.

Marketing and Communications

  • Oversee the Foundation’s marketing and communications strategy, ensuring strong visibility, engagement, and trust.
  • Guide brand development, media relations, and digital communications to amplify the impact of fundraising.
  • Deliver powerful storytelling campaigns that highlight compassion, care, and innovation at the Mater Hospital.
  • Ensure all communications align with organisational objectives and elevate the Foundation’s public profile.

Team Leadership and Development

  • Inspire, lead, empower, coach and support a talented team to deliver exceptional results.
  • Lead recruitment, retention, and training, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
  • Promote creativity, collaboration, and accountability within a supportive and high-performing environment.

Candidate Profile

The Foundation is seeking a strategic, dynamic, solutions oriented and results-focused leader with the experience and passion to make a difference. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in philanthropy, a strong record of income growth, and the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Essential Experience & Qualifications

  • Degree-level qualification in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
  • Minimum 5 years’ senior leadership experience in fundraising or development (in a not for profit environment), with a track record of achieving income growth.
  • Experience designing and delivering integrated fundraising strategies across multiple income streams.
  • Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams and volunteers.
  • Experience managing an organisation’s marketing and communications function.
  • Strong financial management, budgeting, and reporting capabilities.
  • Understanding of governance, fundraising regulation, and strategic planning in the Irish charity sector.
  • Proficiency in CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge) and digital tools.
  • Experience with major donor, corporate, and regular giving programmes.

Essential Skills

  • Strategic thinking with strong analytical and planning capabilities.
  • Excellent communication and storytelling skills with the ability to inspire diverse audiences.
  • Strong influencer with excellent networking and relationship building expertise.
  • Skilled project manager capable of balancing multiple priorities and delivering under pressure.
  • Commercially astute, creative, and innovative in identifying growth opportunities.
  • Experienced in digital marketing and online engagement.

Personal Attributes

  • Confident, positive, self-motivated, and proactive, with a solutions-focused approach.
  • High emotional intelligence with the ability to inspire trust and collaboration.
  • Resilient, adaptable, and energised by challenge.
  • Approachable and passionate about teamwork, excellence, and purpose.
  • Committed to continuous improvement and the mission of the Mater Hospital Foundation.

Benefits and Terms

  • Salary: Circa €85,000 – €90,000
  • Hours: 35 per week
  • Hybrid working (remote options available by agreement)
  • Annual leave: 30 days + 4 gifted days (including Christmas and Wellbeing Day)
  • Pension: 7% employer contribution
  • Access to Employee Assistance Programme, Bike to Work, TaxSaver, and training & development opportunities

Applications and Queries

To apply, please submit your CV and Cover Letter (maximum one page), in Microsoft Word format, outlining how your motivation, experience and skills are a fit for this role profile.

Please make your application for the attention of both Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson to the following email address: info@balmerdawson.ie

Any queries should be directed to Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson at : info@balmerdawson.ie

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – TRUSTS AND FOUNDATIONS – Role Assignment Completed 

The Associate Director will work as part of the Fundraising Team at DCU Educational Trust and serves to build philanthropic support on behalf of DCU from a target audience of Trusts & Foundations and organisations/corporations, at Major and Leadership Giving levels* in support of the Trust’s fundraising objectives.

DCU Educational Trust

DCU Educational Trust was founded in 1988 to raise funds to support the mission and vision of DCU. DCU Educational Trust is passionate about the power of higher education and believe great things are possible when philanthropy combines with a young, dynamic and ambitious university like DCU.

Through their fundraising work, they aim to build meaningful philanthropic partnerships with DCU’s supporters to further DCU’s mission to transform lives and society through education, research, innovation and engagement.

The role reports directly to the Director of Development and works closely with the Development Services Manager, and is supported by a prospect researcher and Communications Team.

*Major to Leadership Gift Levels refer to gifts between €10,000 – €1,000,000

The role

The role holder will be responsible for the following duties:

  • Draft and oversee the development of funding proposals to Trusts & Foundations, corporate prospects and other organisations, including the coordination of all relevant information (budgets, materials, evaluation reports, etc.) to support funding requests.
  • Work proactively and collaboratively with the Development Services team to identify, qualify and manage potential prospects and donors.
  • Undertake face-to-face meetings with corporations and trusts and foundations as required to establish a relationship with DCU, and secure philanthropic and corporate funding in line with fundraising KPI’s.
  • In addition to working with established lists of donors and potential donors, the role holder will identify and cultivate new fundraising leads
  • Oversee the creation of (and on occasion prepare ) stewardship reports for donors, including the coordination of all relevant inputs
  • As required, manage individual fundraising projects (e.g. a scholarship programme or academic project) and coordinate the donor engagement strategies required to reach specific fundraising targets.
  • Offer guidance in establishing and implementing advancement policies and procedures for individual corporate and foundation donors.
  • Proactively assist in the planning and implementation of major activities to support fundraising initiatives including events, donor communications, publications and advisory boards.
  • Steward the necessary relations with current and prospective donors , promoting their involvement with the university, keeping the institution name and achievements relevant in the minds of individuals, corporate partners, foundation executives and board members.
  • Collaborate with DCU staff from various units within the university. The role holder is responsible for developing, in concert with the development team and team leaders, a sound strategy, development plan and set of procedures, to ensure good working relationships between the Educational Trust and the wider university, and to ensure the efficient pursuit of philanthropic
  • Record all contacts and actions into the central fundraising database – Raiser’s Edge NXT.

Education and Experience:

  • Third level qualification in the appropriate
  • Minimum 3 years’ experience working within a fundraising or not for profit environment, ideally in writing grant applications and Trust & Foundations fundraising.
  • Project management experience desirable
  • Experience in CRM fundraising is desirable however training will be provided

Key competencies:

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience working with and influencing individuals at senior levels.
  • Strong people interaction skills with experience in building and fostering long term relationships.
  • High degree of planning and organisational skills; including the ability to manage a number of projects concurrently; a proven ability to carry out different tasks simultaneously; excellent time management and utilizing resources accordingly.
  • Attention to detail
  • High degree of computer literacy
  • Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a Team Environment
  • Full clean driver’s license and access to private transport preferred

Benefits

  • Salary: The salary will be in the region of €60,000 + per annum DOE (Depending on Experience)
  • Annual Leave: 24 days.
  • After the completion of one year continuous service, employees of the Trust are entitled to join the DCU Educational Trust Pension scheme, and avail of a bi-Annual Employee Health Screening Check-Up
  • Hybrid working policy available

Role Term

This position offers a 3-year contract term with a 6-month probationary period. The role offers longer-term prospects to be reviewed further to the completion of the 3-year contract term.

Application Process and Queries

To apply, please submit your CV and Cover Letter (maximum one page) in MS Word format, outlining how your motivation, experience and skills fit the role, for the attention of BOTH  Gilly Balmer & Zena Dawson at the following email address: info@balmerdawson.ie 

Any Queries should be directed to both Gilly and Zena at info@balmerdawson.ie

 

The DCU Educational Trust is an equal opportunities employer

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (PHP, Linux) WITH SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION

Balmer Dawson Executive Search is delighted to partner with Context in the search to fill the position of Software Developer (PHP, Linux) with System Administration

For this well-established SME with 25 employees, you will be required to perform a dual role:

  1. maintain and create custom applications and software in close cooperation with the Chief Technical Officer (CTO), looking after bug fixing, updates, feature additions, and active development
  2. maintain the company’s IT infrastructure and ensure the systems it runs on are secure and functional, including hardware, networks, and security and support users working on Windows desktops and laptops

You will take primary direction from the CTO and liaise closely with Leadership Development Officer and company directors.

The company

Context provides high-quality language services supported by leading edge technologies in three distinct business lines:

  • Translation of written text in digital formats
  • Live multilingual conference interpreting
  • Community Interpreting for the Irish Public Sector

Context offers its services in more than 100 languages.

The company’s operational success is the result of a values-driven culture, a flat organisational structure comprising 3 high-performing, self-managing teams which draw on the expertise of the Support Team, and a strong focus on continuous process improvement, service excellence and quality management.

Each business line has a strong portfolio composed of national and international clients from the corporate and public sectors. The company office is located in Oranmore, Co. Galway. It is critical that you live close to the company office and are available on-site in case of problems that require urgent on-site support. There is on-site parking.

What makes this role unique

Variety. Purpose. Challenge. The satisfaction of receiving immediate feedback on improvements and system upgrades from your users, i.e. the 4 Context teams. Supporting end-to-end operations, contributing to their excellence. Personal development on the company’s self-organisation journey.

The following tasks occur daily, weekly, or monthly:

  • developing internal browser-based software applications
  • supporting all teams with hardware and software requirements and issue resolution
  • managing and maintaining online services
  • managing and maintaining internal server and network infrastructure.

You will cover a range of coding, systems administration, and other tasks, in agreement with the CTO, LDO and the Context directors. This is an integrated role where both functions are ongoing and responsibilities are agreed upon with all relevant parties (CTO, LDO, directors). The balance might vary depending on the specific project or operational needs being addressed. You hold a key support role for all Context employees.

Your self-development follows a unique path of peer-agreed priorities and self-determined goals. Context is committed to people-centred employment practices, a sustainable life balance and the wellbeing of each team member.

Software development

In-house applications are continuously developed and improved.

The vast majority of software development is in PHP in a Linux environment.

– Deep PHP coding knowledge and several years of experience of coding in PHP are required.

– It is highly preferable that you have experience with development in a Linux environment.

– The code is stored in-house and does not use online services or virtual hosting servers.

– The deployed software is hosted on an in-house physical server.

 Project management system

The proprietary Context project management system tracks all projects in each business line end to end, integrates all business transactions and provides business-critical reports.

The main applications are built on a LAPP stack, which is continuously developed and improved in-house in response to requirements. The application interfaces are browser-based both internally and externally.

Database maintenance

The company data is stored in a suite of databases; some database maintenance and administration will be required to enhance performance.

Systems maintenance

System administration and maintenance consist of several smaller tasks such as installing updates, inventory-keeping and general maintenance of systems and services. There is also the requirement to set up new or replacement devices for team members. Tasks include:

Windows Desktop/Laptop Setup and Support

Network administration

Linux administration

GDPR and data protection compliance

Maintenance of several communication channels

Maintenance of several online services

Skills required

You must be a problem-solver. This means that you have the

  • ability to break down complex problems into manageable parts, analyse data, and identify patterns.ability to work closely with each team to analyse complex problems, probe for additional information and assist in finding practical solutions
  • ability to think outside the box, generate innovative solutions, and consider alternative perspectives.
  • willingness to investigate problems thoroughly, gather information, and persist in finding a solution and resolving the problem.
  • tendency to identify potential problems before they become major issues.
  • skill in using logic to arrive at a solution or conclusion.

While the company uses its own offline large language models locally, AI-reliance is avoided.

Technical skills

You should possess comprehensive skills in proprietary application development using PHP and HTML/CSS, along with proficiency managing Linux environments including command-line operations, PostgreSQL administration, and familiarity with version control software. Development and maintenance of proprietary applications require knowledge of the following:

  • PHP (core requirement)
  • Linux
  • HTML/CSS
  • Apache Webserver
  • PostgreSQL
  • Version control software (e.g. Git)

Personal skills

  • highly developed analytical and research skills
  • proven problem-solving and creative decision-making skills
  • ability to adapt quickly and respond well to changing circumstances, priorities, or requirements
  • excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
  • an authentic ability to engage with others
  • a hands-on approach to team work, inclusive decision-making and active listening
  • the ability to remain focused as situations arise, and to respond with a calm and measured approach
  • a track record of close cooperation with senior support and operational teams
  • excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
  • curiosity to embrace new ways of working

Education and experience required

  • Degree in mathematics, computer science, software engineering, or a related field
  • Demonstrable further skills development courses
  • A minimum of 5 years’ experience with PHP, or a related field
  • A qualification as a systems administrator is not a Must. However, you must have experience in setting up test and deployment environments.

Career path

Career development at Context is not linked to titles or salary levels. Since the company pursues a holistic sustainability agenda rather than revenue-based goals, the focus is on self-development as a foundation for organisational development.

Pay rises and entry level salaries are both dependent on the depth of experience and on the value-add the individual brings. Self-development support and professional training in specialised areas are available to all team members. They may be identified by the individual and/or their peers or Support Team and tailored to the individual’s needs and wishes. Biannual self-appraisal reviews are an opportunity to identify development opportunities, as are team workshops and several other all-teams training events scheduled throughout the year.

Terms

  • 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday
  • Salary €65,000 + DOE
  • Annual leave 20 days per annum + 4 wellbeing days (1 day per quarter)
  • Ongoing training & development opportunities
  • Employer pension contribution to company scheme from first day of employment.

Application and Queries

To apply, please submit your CV and Cover Letter (maximum one page), in Microsoft Word format, outlining how your motivation, experience and skills are a fit for this role profile. Please make your application for the attention of BOTH Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson to the following email address: info@balmerdawson.ie

Any queries should be directed to Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson at info@balmerdawson.ie

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS – Role on Hold

Maynooth University, partnering with Balmer Dawson Executive Search, invites applications for a new Director of Development and Alumni Relations to oversee Maynooth University’s highly ambitious Development & Alumni Relations team to lead the next phase of growth for a nascent fundraising and alumni engagement programme that has seen significant expansion and momentum of late.

Make an Impact – Deliver a new strategy and build a culture of giving!

Are you a strategic fundraising professional with a passion for education?

Do you thrive on building meaningful relationships and leading transformational giving?

If so, we invite you to apply for the role of Director of Development and Alumni Relations at Maynooth University.

We are seeking a personable and entrepreneurial strategic leader with a strong record of success in fundraising for a large complex organisation; experience as an empowering team manager; an understanding of the trends in alumni engagement; and an ability to work collegially across the University to build a culture of philanthropy using the data-driven systems and processes to propel a modern development and alumni relations office.

Reporting to:             Vice-President External Affairs

Key relationships:      Foundation Board, University Executive Members, Governance, Finance Teams, and the President of the University

Salary:                          Senior Administrative Officer II €108,933 – €145,611 in line with public sector pay provisions.

Contract:                      5-year contract on a full-time basis

About Maynooth University

Maynooth University is in the top 90 global Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024. It is also recognised among the top 600 universities in the world and in the top 250 European universities. It is a place of lively contrasts–a modern institution, dynamic, rapidly-growing, research-led and engaged, yet grounded in historic academic strengths and scholarly traditions. The engaged alumni community of more than 95,000 and its committed supporters play a vital role in shaping the future of today’s MU students. As the University embarks on an ambitious phase of growth, it seeks an experienced leader to drive fundraising and alumni engagement to support its strategic objectives. Learn more about our strategic plan at: Maynooth University Strategic Plan 2023 – 2028.

The Role

As a senior leader at the University, the Director of Development and Alumni Relations will be at the forefront of the University’s fundraising initiatives, building robust relationships with donors, alumni, and stakeholders. They will develop and implement strategies that enhance philanthropic giving and ensure the long-term sustainability of the institution.

The Director of Development and Alumni Relations will have oversight of the highly ambitious Development and Alumni Relations team, which includes alumni relations, fundraising via the Maynooth University Foundation, and development services. They will report to the Vice-President External Affairs, and work closely with the Foundation Board, University Executive members, the Governance and Finance teams. Reporting to annual revenue targets and a series of KPIs linked to the University strategy, the Director will have an opportunity to deliver both financial resources and engagement opportunities for Maynooth University students, academics and alumni.

 

Key Responsibilities include:

  • To manage and deliver an effective fundraising strategy for Maynooth University to support the goals of the University Strategic Plan 2023-28‘
  • Deliver annual fundraising targets that will enable the University to achieve a step change in the level of giving by maximising income generated from a range of sources.
  • Lead and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including major gifts, legacy giving, and corporate partnerships.
  • Cultivate and steward relationships with key donors and alumni, fostering a culture of philanthropy.
  • Develop innovative engagement programs to strengthen alumni ties with the institution.
  • Oversee fundraising campaigns and events, ensuring their success and impact.
  • To lead the growth of Development and Alumni Relations Office team, building a culture that is supportive, service-oriented, and goals-driven to support the objectives of the University’s Strategic Plan 2023-28.
  • Be a senior level ambassador for Maynooth University with external and internal stakeholders, providing a leadership voice that projects—with confidence and passion—the vision and strategy of Maynooth University, its priorities projects, and the success of its graduates.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to align development goals with the organisation’s strategic vision.
  • To manage the Maynooth University Foundation Board of Directors.

 

About You

You will be a results-driven professional holding a Bachelor’s degree (minimum), with 7–10 years of experience in fundraising or philanthropy within a university, charity, or complex organisation. You should have direct team leadership experience, a strong understanding of higher education fundraising, and a proven track record of securing major gifts from individuals, companies, and organisations.

The role requires strategic thinking, leadership skills, and the ability to work independently at a senior level. An entrepreneurial mindset, experience managing multi-stakeholder projects, and knowledge of fundraising databases, governance, and compliance are essential. You should be data-driven, innovative, and experienced in working with volunteers and foundation boards. Strong communication, networking, and interpersonal skills are crucial, along with an ambitious approach to inspire donors and colleagues. A commitment to Maynooth University’s mission, values and fostering a culture of philanthropy is essential.

Why Join Maynooth?

  • Be part of an ambitious, values-driven institution with a commitment to imagining and creating better futures for all.
  • Opportunity to make a significant impact on future generations, working for a national leader in access to higher education.
  • Work with an enthusiastic team of professionals in a collaborative environment.
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.


The Maynooth University Strategic Plan 2023 – 2028 sets out an ambition to be an excellent place to learn and work, and an inclusive community where students and staff can flourish and make a distinctive contribution to the national system of higher education and the public good. Achieving this requires staff to have a strong sense of connection to the University and support from colleagues. Being part of the Maynooth University team is a unique, collaborative and collegial experience. The University recognises that its people are its greatest resource and actively seeks to attract, develop, and retain a talented workforce by creating a positive and welcoming University environment. As well as offering a competitive salary, access to a public sector pension scheme, and annual leave allowance, the University also provides other benefits including but not limited to:

  • Family-friendly leave schemes
  • Tax Saver travel scheme and Cycle to Work scheme
  • On-campus crèche
  • On-campus restaurants and coffee shops
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Health and Well-Being programmes
  • Education support opportunities
  • Continuous Professional Development opportunities, including leadership programmes, mentoring, Aurora programme.
  • Study and Exam leave
  • Sports facilities and gym

For further information see: Maynooth-University-Candidate-Brochure-2025

Closing Date: The closing date for applications is Tuesday, 3rd June at 5pm (GMT)

Maynooth University is an equal opportunities employer. We actively work to ensure equality, celebrate the diversity of our community, and promote inclusion, and aim to reflect the diversity of the community we serve. Maynooth University welcomes applications from all individuals across our society.

 

Applications and Queries:

To apply, please submit your CV and Cover Letter (maximum one page), in Microsoft Word format, outlining how your motivation, experience and skills are a fit for this role. Please make your application for the attention of BOTH Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson to the following email address: info@balmerdawson.ie 

All queries should be directed to Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson at info@balmerdawson.ie

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

We really enjoyed working with the team at Balmer Dawson on the hiring of our new CEO.  Zena and Gilly took the time to understand our sector, the culture of the organisation, and what we truly needed in a leader. Their communication was consistent, the process was well structured, and the quality of CEO candidates presented was exceptional. It was also positive that they had the experience to look beyond our information and look at candidates from further afield. Whilst we didn’t select these “wildcard” candidates it was very valuable having them be part of the interview process.  Their approach felt collaborative and supportive throughout, and we couldn’t be happier with the final appointment.

Kim Tully, Chairperson, Sonas Domestic Violence Charity

Balmer Dawson Executive Search were a joy to work with. They understood our brief, our timelines and our expectations. Their knowledge and insight of the market was exceptional and, importantly, delivered. I look forward to working with Balmer Dawson in the future.

Belinda Clements, Associate Director Operations/Human Resource, Trinity Development & Alumni

Balmer Dawson Executive Search have been a great support to Cystic Fibrosis Ireland helping us fill key vacancies in our Charity. It takes away all the stress of trying to find good people when you know they will look after this for you. We have been very happy with the professional recruitment support provided by Balmer Dawson over the past few years.

Fergal Smyth, Fundraising Manager, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland

We persistently use the services of Balmer Dawson Executive Search because they take the time to get to know the needs of the DCU Educational Trust in order to assist us in obtaining the best fit. In a sector built on relationships, their relationships have yielded strong results for our organisation.

Plunkett Tormay, Head of Finance, DCU Educational Trust

“We engaged Balmer Dawson to assist us in recruiting our CEO. The team at Balmer Dawson were excellent to work with and we were delighted with the outcome of our search.”

Tara Doyle, Chairperson, spunout CLG

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Jimmy Fearon, Chief Executive Officer, DEBRA Ireland

I had an excellent experience working with Gilly & Zena. They took the time to understand the Society, it’s culture, and hiring needs, which made the whole process very smooth & efficient. Professional, responsive, and reliable throughout the process. I would highly recommend.

Elizabeth Smyth, Head of Fundraising, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Ireland)

The Society of Jesus have used the services of Balmer Dawson to fill two senior roles in the Irish Province. Gilly and Zena take a personal interest in the process, from the initial scoping of the roles to final interview stage resulting in excellent appointments. Both have an excellent understanding of the not-for-profit sector. They take time to get a good understanding of your organisation and its culture. They oversaw a good advertising and search campaign, met with applicants and shortlisted a panel of excellent candidates. Their communication and support throughout the process was very reassuring.

I would strongly recommend Balmer Dawson and we see them as business partners rather than recruitment consultants.

Tom O'Brien, Finance Director, Society of Jesus

I have had the pleasure of working with Gilly and Zena on a couple of assignments and have been very impressed with both their approach and professionalism. They took the time to fully understand our requirements and the nuance of our organisation and delivered excellent candidates each time, ahead of our recruitment timeline. If you are looking to fill a specialised role within the charity sector, I highly recommend Balmer Dawson.

Paula Johnston, Executive Director, An Tairseach

We are a client of Balmer Dawson Executive Search.  While their whole service is very impressive, it was their understanding of our organisation and our specific needs that really stood out.  They took the time to learn our exact requirements which meant only the most suitable candidates were brought into the recruitment process. Their commitment to open communication at every phase ensured a highly effective partnership-driven approach to the project. I would highly recommend them for any recruitment work.

Garry Lyons, Property & Finance Manager, Congregation of the Holy Spirit

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