ICOS is hiring a Programme and Alumni Officer
Starting Salary: €40,000
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Reporting To: Policy & Communications Manager
Term: 2 years, renewable subject to funding, with a 6-month probation period
Base: The role will be based at our office at 41 Morehampton Road, Donnybrook, Dublin 4, with hybrid working in place.
Application Deadline: Midnight, Sunday 12 October (Irish Time).
To Apply: Please send CV and cover letter in one PDF document to orlal@icoirl.ie
Name the PDF file: Your Name – Position Title.
Interviews: Will take place week of 20 October
About ICOS
The Irish Council for International Students (ICOS) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation advocating for the rights of international students in Ireland and promoting good policy and high standards for international education in Irish higher education.
ICOS also administers the Ireland Fellows Programme (IFP) on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), a scholarship scheme that enables early to mid-career professionals from eligible countries to undertake fully funded master’s level study in Ireland. Further information is available at www.internationalstudents.ie and www.irishaidfellowships.ie.
About the Role
ICOS is seeking an experienced and highly organised Programme and Alumni Officer to support the delivery of the Ireland Fellows Programme and to strengthen alumni engagement. The role combines programme administration with contributing to the development of alumni networks and community initiatives, in line with ICOS’ wider mission and strategic priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Include, but are not limited to:
- Fellowship Programme Administration
- Process applications for the IFP and support course placements for academic programmes in Ireland, liaising with higher education institutions and other stakeholders.
- Assist with arrival and departure logistics, including visa, accommodation and travel arrangements.
- Provide casework and welfare support to Fellows during their studies in Ireland.
- Support the organisation of Fellowship and alumni events, including, orientation, seminars, social and networking events.
- Maintain accurate records of queries on the Fellowship database, contribute to surveys and monitoring processes, produce case studies, and support ongoing programme evaluation and reporting.
- Alumni Engagement
- Support and contribute to strategies to strengthen engagement with IFP alumni globally.
- Assist with outreach efforts, communications initiatives, and the development of resources for alumni.
- Maintain and contribute content to alumni social media groups (LinkedIn, Facebook) and assist with the development and maintenance of an online Alumni Portal.
- Work with DFAT and Irish Aid Missions in participating countries to support the establishment of local alumni networks.
- Other
- Support ICOS’ wider communications, advocacy and information work as required, including responding to queries from international students and ICOS members.
- Actively contribute to planning meetings, weekly team meetings, and the broader work and strategic objectives of ICOS.
- Provide administrative support for other activities as identified by management.
Essential Criteria
- A relevant third-level qualification.
- Minimum 2 years’ relevant experience in programme or project administration and/or coordination (for example, in education, NGO, customer service, or community settings)
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with flexibility and the ability to meet multiple deadlines.
- Experience with social media, website maintenance and database use.
- Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders and respond to casework with professionalism, confidentiality, and respect for GDPR standards.
- Experience working in people-focused roles, ideally in cross-cultural, international, or development contexts.
- Experience supporting partnerships or liaising with external stakeholders (e.g. universities, embassies, community groups).
- Experience coordinating online and in-person events (seminars, workshops, social or networking events).
Desirable Criteria
- Previous experience in, student support, or scholarship/fellowship administration.
- Knowledge of international development and education, including Ireland’s international development policy and/or the higher education sector in Ireland and globally.
- Experience working in the community/voluntary sector or a membership organisation.
Staff Benefits
- Access to ICOS’ health insurance scheme after completion of the 6-month probationary period.
- Access to ICOS’ pension scheme, including 7% employer contributions, after completion of the 6-month probationary period.
- Annual leave is 22 days per year.
- Additional paid time off over the Christmas period and on Good Friday.
- Flexible working hours and hybrid working arrangements.
- Time in lieu for overtime worked.
- A death in service benefit.
- Staff training, development and education opportunities.