1. Alcohol Action Ireland is looking for a Policy Officer
Alcohol Action Ireland, the national charity for alcohol-related issues, is looking for a policy
officer with research and project management skills. Our aim is to build on our existing success
as a credible voice on alcohol-related harm by producing quality, accessible, evidence-based,
solution-focused policy positions for different audiences.
The person will work on a 2.5 day per week basis and this can be spread across five mornings if
more suitable. The post will be based in our city centre offices which have excellent public
transport connections. Some flexibility may be required around key days in the year but every
attempt will be given to provide advance notice.
Who are we?
Alcohol Action Ireland advocates for the prevention of alcohol-related harm and protection from
the effects of that harm to individuals, families and communities. We promote evidence-based
policy solutions including early intervention, prevention and protection strategies.
Like the World Health Organisation, Alcohol Action Ireland recognises that while drinking is
matter of personal responsibility, drinking has the potential to cause significant harm to the
health, wellbeing and lives of others as well as to the person drinking.
Who are we looking for?
A self-starting individual with a track record in policy and research, and if possible project
management. Our preference is for someone who has honed their skills in an advocacy or “real
time” environment ie capable of providing quality policy work that can be incorporated for quick
media response. In terms of personal qualities:
 Someone with the ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities and
maintain a professional approach
 Someone with ability to work on own initiative and consult where appropriate
 Someone who works well in a participative team environment
What are we looking for/ requirements specific to the post?
Essential: An individual educated to graduate level and above with a track record in
policy/ advocacy – with a minimum of three years policy work experience
Essential: A policy person with the dual capacity to gain in-depth knowledge of particular
policy areas and at the same time can actually quickly turn around relevant facts and
figures for press releases, media inquiries and the web site
Essential research experience, preferably from a project management perspective
Essential an understanding of the legislative process and how policy is made in Ireland
Desirable: An individual who has the policy/ advocacy background specifically in the
area of alcohol or drugs
Desirable: An interest in politics, legislation and wider social development issues
Note: that if you are asked to come and meet with us, you will be expected to bring examples of
your work and to discuss the approach you have taken. In the event of being selected for a
second interview a presentation will be required

2. Who will you be working with?
Alcohol Action Ireland works on “flat” project based structure; therefore while you will be
ultimately responsible to the CEO; you will be working with each member of the team
and will be expected to offer
What will you be doing?
Ensuring that our key campaign areas are based on the latest information and
developments
Project managing a key research project in conjunction with the CEO
Preparing accessible and succinct policy statements, submissions and reports according
to an agreed programme that will be used across a wide variety of communications’
platforms
Working closely with the Communications Officer to ensure that necessary copy is
available for use across all communications platforms: press release, website, social
media
Monitoring PQs, legislation etc for relevance to alcohol harm reduction
Advising on emerging issues in the area of alcohol-related harm both in Ireland and
Europe
Consulting with the CEO in creating a programme of relationship development with
relevant stakeholders; potentially representing the organisation in some fora
What are we offering?
An opportunity to be a key member of a small and effective team working in an exciting
advocacy area. Flexibility in hours – 2.5 days which can be worked across five mornings.
The person will work on a 2.5 day per week basis and this can be spread across five mornings if
more suitable. The post will be based in our city centre offices which have excellent transport
connections. Some flexibility may be required around key days in the year but every attempt will
be given to provide advance notice.
If you are interested in the position please send a covering letter outlining how and why you
would be a good fit with us as well as a brief two page CV to admin@alcoholactionireland.ie.
Deadline for application is Friday 1 March at noon 12pm. It is expected that interviews
will take place the following week starting 4 March with second interviews to be held on
the week of the 11th March.
Please mark emails: policy officer application