Chief Executive Officer

The Organisation 

The Technological Universities Association (TUA) is the collective representative voice of Ireland’s Technological University sector, established to advocate for the sector’s interests in areas of higher education, research, enterprise engagement, and regional development. TUA works collaboratively with government, state agencies, and stakeholders to ensure that the technological university sector continues to thrive, contribute meaningfully to society, and address national and regional challenges.

The recently established TUA marks a fresh chapter for Ireland’s Technological Higher Education sector. It reflects the need for a focused, unified voice to support the ongoing transformation of Ireland’s Technological University sector. Building on the legacy of Regional Technical Colleges originally established in the 1970s, and subsequent Institutes of Technology, all five TUs were formally designated between 2019 and 2022. The TUA aims to guide these rapidly evolving universities through their formative years, strengthening their identity, influence, and contribution to national and regional development. 

The Role 

The Technological Universities Association (TUA) body is seeking an experienced candidate for the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO will lead its mission of representing and advancing the collective voice of Ireland’s Technological University (TU) sector comprising of five Technological Universities and two Institutes of Technology. They will shape and drive sector-wide policy development in collaboration with Presidents and senior leaders of member institutions, as well as anticipate and respond to national and global trends affecting the sector, positioning TUA, and the members it represents, as a proactive and forward-looking organisation. 

The Person 

The role requires a candidate who can demonstrate a track record of effective leadership, advocacy, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement at the highest levels of public affairs and experience in influencing government policy. The successful candidate will also have experience of public affairs or policymaking, as well as a proven track record of influencing, with an established network and credibility with senior stakeholders in government, academia, and industry. They will also have a strong understanding of Ireland’s higher education landscape, including an understanding of policy, funding, and governance structures. 

Application and Further Information 

For further information, including a detailed candidate information booklet, and to apply for this role visit www.forvismazars.com/ie/en/executiverecruitment 

All enquiries relating to this role should be directed to the Executive Recruitment Team by email to execrecruit@mazars.ie or by telephone on +353 (1) 449 4400. 

Forvis Mazars will be managing all aspects of this recruitment project on behalf of the Technological Universities Association. 

No enquiries or canvassing should be made directly to the Technological Universities Association. 

Deadline for applications: 12 noon, Monday, 20th October 2025. 

The Technological Universities Association is an equal opportunities employer with a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality at all levels of the organisation.