Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland
At Fís Eireann/Screen Ireland we are looking for new Talent to join our growing team. You will become part of a talented and diverse community of employees whose mission and passion are to promote and support the development of Irish Film, Television Drama, Animation, Documentary, Visual Effects and Digital Games Industries.
As the national agency for the Irish film, television drama, animation, and documentary industry, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland is the creative partner to the sector, investing in talent, creativity, and enterprise. We are inspired by original storytelling that will emotionally move audiences at home and abroad. Through a wide range of practical funding supports across development, production, distribution, promotion and skills development, Screen Ireland supports the sector at every stage. We support filmmakers in their creative pursuit to share valuable artistic, cultural, and commercial stories on screen.
OUR CULTURE & COMMITMENTS
At Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, we are proud to foster a workplace culture built on creativity, inclusion, and respect. Through our Kind framework, we place equal importance on wellbeing, lifelong learning, sustainability, and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). We actively support our employees to thrive personally and professionally, offering opportunities to grow their skills, contribute to meaningful projects, and be part of a collaborative community. We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the audiences we serve and the stories we support on screen. We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives who meet the requirements of the role, and we celebrate the unique contributions that each person brings to our organisation.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Development Executive function is to work collaboratively with members of the Production and Development team to support the day-to-day operations of the department and wider agency. This involves objective assessment of projects in line with the agency’s core principles and strategic priorities at early-stage development and outlining findings at meetings for group review and decision-making. Additionally, the Development Executive is responsible for preparing and delivering high-quality written reports on all applications to capture the decisions made at Development Meetings and communicate this effectively to applicants. The Development Executive will manage workflows across key schemes and talent development initiatives to promote the growth and sustainability of the Irish film and television sector. They will also work flexibly and collaboratively with the Project Managers and Development Manager to facilitate the advancement of projects across all genres and formats as required.
The position combines strategic editorial support for Project Managers with responsibility for managing day-to-day workflow across the development slate and key schemes to support the operations of the Production and Development Department. It also involves planning, coordination, reporting and continuous improvement activities to strengthen the overall effectiveness of the organisation.
FUNCTION OVERVIEW
The Production and Development function at Screen Ireland is responsible for overseeing, supporting, and enabling the development, production, and delivery of high-quality content across film, television, animation, and documentary. The team provides strategic funding, creative and editorial guidance, and structured oversight to writers, directors, producers, and animation studios, ensuring projects progress in line with Screen Ireland’s cultural, creative, and industry objectives.
In addition to managing project pipelines, the function plays a central role in supporting talent development, fostering innovative and diverse storytelling, and strengthening Ireland’s capacity across all screen sectors. This includes leading development initiatives, designing targeted funding schemes, and cultivating partnerships with broadcasters, distributors, financiers, and international collaborators. The team also ensures alignment with broader organisational strategies and contributes to the sustainability, growth, and global visibility of Ireland’s screen industries.
JOB GRADE / REPORTING LINE
It is anticipated that in order to have the required skills and competencies, the Higher Executive Officer post will be at the First Point level.
REPORTING LINE(S)
The role reports to the Development Manager and works closely with the Head of Feature Film, the Head of TV and Innovation, Project Managers and other colleagues across the Development team and wider Production & Development function. The postholder will be expected to support effective communication, collaboration and coordinated delivery across the function. Reporting arrangements may be reviewed periodically in response to organisational and business requirements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Development Slate Management and Team Delivery
Support the coordination and delivery of activity across Screen Ireland’s development slate, working closely with the Development Manager, Project Managers and other members of the Development team.
Work collaboratively with the Development Manager and Project Managers to support the progression of projects through the relevant stages of development.
Provide guidance to writers, directors and producers regarding application and development processes, while coordinating associated workflows, budgets, schedules and deliverables.
Support the delivery of schemes and initiatives designed to develop creative talent, strengthen storytelling diversity and improve project readiness.
Monitor project activity and maintain accurate and timely information to support team planning, internal reporting, evaluation and decision-making.
Cross-Team Flexibility
Undertake duties appropriate to the Higher Executive Officer grade and the relevant PAS Capability Framework, contributing flexibly across the Development team and, where required, the wider Production & Development function to support organisational priorities and delivery deadlines.
While the primary focus of the role will be the assessment of first-stage television and feature-film applications, work flexibly across different genres, formats and stages of development in response to changing operational requirements.
Governance and Reporting
Attend and contribute to Development team meetings, internal review and decision-making meetings, and relevant cross-functional working groups.
Ensure that development assessment, scheme administration and related activities are undertaken in accordance with Screen Ireland’s policies, procedures, public-sector governance requirements and equality, diversity and inclusion principles.
Maintain accurate and appropriately documented assessment, decision and project records to support transparency, accountability and effective reporting.
Operational and Team Support
Contribute to the continuous improvement of the Development team’s processes, templates, systems and workflows.
Support the planning and delivery of workshops, training sessions, information events and other stakeholder engagements, as required.
Collaborate effectively with colleagues across the Development team, the wider Production & Development function and other Screen Ireland functions to promote consistency, knowledge-sharing and joined-up working.
KEY REQUIREMENTS ESSENTIAL
A relevant third-level qualification (or equivalent experience) in Film, Television, Media Studies, Communications, Business, Project Management, or a related discipline.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, Teams) and confidence working with digital systems, tools, and internal databases
Minimum of three years’ experience in a comparable role within screen content development, production, public sector, or arts and cultural organisations.
Demonstrated script development and editorial expertise, including experience providing structured story and script analysis, and delivering clear, constructive feedback.
Proven ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with a range of stakeholders, including creative talent, funders, and broadcasters.
A collaborative team player with the ability to contribute positively to a dynamic, strategic, and creative working environment.
KEY SKILLS - PAS CAPABILITY FRAMEWORK
In accordance with the PAS Capability Framework , candidates will undergo assessment and interviews focusing on the following Core Capabilities:
Building Future Readiness
Evidence-Informed Delivery
Leading and Empowering
Communicating and Collaborating
*Accessible Plaintext of the Capability Framework for the various public sector grades is available at: Capability Framework
1. Core Capability: Building Future Readiness
The postholder will demonstrate adaptability, innovation, and strategic awareness in anticipating and responding to change. They will confidently embrace digital tools and emerging technologies to enhance efficiency and impact, remain alert to sectoral and organisational developments, and translate insights into practical actions. A commitment to continuous learning and knowledge sharing will support both individual growth and the organisation’s long-term resilience.
2. Core Capability: Evidence-Informed Delivery
The postholder will make sound, evidence-based decisions that support effective planning and measurable outcomes. They will use research, data, and analysis to inform recommendations, apply critical thinking and judgement in problem-solving, and monitor progress against objectives. A strong results orientation and commitment to continuous improvement will ensure the delivery of high-quality outputs that align with organisational priorities.
3. Core Capability: Leading & Empowering
At this level, leadership is demonstrated through ownership, initiative, and collaboration. The postholder will take accountability for achieving agreed objectives, support and guide colleagues to perform effectively, and foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful team culture. By modelling professionalism and working collaboratively across functions, they will help achieve shared goals and organisational success.
4. Core Capability: Communicating & Collaborating
Effective communication and collaboration are central to this role. The postholder will communicate clearly, confidently, and professionally in all formats, tailoring their approach to different audiences. They will build strong, productive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, contribute actively to team discussions, and use tact, diplomacy, and influence to achieve outcomes and maintain constructive working relationships.
5. Core Capability: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The postholder will actively promote and apply equality, diversity, and inclusion principles in all aspects of their work. They will foster a culture of respect, fairness, and belonging, ensuring inclusive communication and equitable participation in organisational processes. Through awareness, learning, and role modelling, they will contribute to a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and where Screen Ireland’s commitment to inclusive practice is consistently upheld.
DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES
The following would be advantageous:
Knowledge of the Irish screen sector and wider cultural landscape, including an understanding of screen funding, project development processes and current sectoral opportunities and challenges.
Experience of supporting the development of film or television projects, funding schemes, creative initiatives or talent development programmes.
Strong project coordination skills, with the ability to plan, implement and monitor activities from initial development through to delivery.
A broad appreciation of screen content, together with cultural curiosity, sound editorial judgement and an openness to original, diverse and ambitious creative ideas.
The ability to balance creative considerations with funding criteria, strategic priorities, governance requirements and practical deliverability.
An innovative and solutions-focused approach, with the confidence to contribute ideas and support the continuous improvement of schemes, processes and team workflows.
An understanding of governance and compliance within a public-sector or publicly funded environment, including accountability, transparency and funding oversight obligations.
Experience of, or an interest in, supporting initiatives that promote sustainability, wellbeing, equality, diversity and inclusion within the screen sector.
Proficiency in the Irish language.
The postholder will contribute flexibly across the team, supporting colleagues with activities aligned to the Higher Executive Officer grade. This collaborative approach ensures opportunities for shared learning, role development, and responsiveness to team priorities.
This job description is not intended to contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned based on business operational needs.
ROLE DETAILS AND TERMS
This position is at the Higher Executive Officer level and is remunerated at €60,029 per annum. This role will be filled in line with Public Pay Policy at the first point of this Salary Scale unless the successful candidate is appointed from an existing public sector role. Application of 1 June 2026 pay adjustments.
This is a 9 – 12-month specific purpose contract (Maternity Leave Cover) position.
The successful candidate will be required to sign the Screen Ireland Code of Conduct.
The role will have a 6-month probation period.
The person will report directly to the Development Manager.
The post will be based in Dublin.
Annual leave (excluding bank holidays) of 29 days.
Start Date as soon as possible.
ELIGIBILITY TO COMPETE & CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON ELIGIBILITY
Citizenship Requirement Eligible candidates must be:
A citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA consists of the Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway;
A citizen of the United Kingdom (UK);
A citizen of Switzerland pursuant to the agreement between the EU and Switzerland on the free movement of persons; or A non-EEA citizen who has a stamp 4 visa1 or a stamp 5 visa.
To qualify, candidates must be eligible by the date of any job offer.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested applicants are invited to forward a detailed CV that highlights relevant experience and a cover letter in strict confidence by clicking on the vacancy link on our website.
APPLICATIONS CLOSING DATE: 5.00PM., 28 OCTOBER 2026.
APPLICATIONS: COVER LETTER REQUIREMENTS
As part of your cover letter, you should set out your skills and experience to meet the requirements for the position. Applications will be treated in the strictest of confidence. In accordance with the PAS competency framework, candidates for this role will undergo assessment and interviews focusing on, but not limited to, the Higher Executive Officer level of the Public Service Capability Framework.
Please be advised that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools is not permitted in the development of your application for this position.
Where appropriate, a selection panel of qualified candidates may be established. Such panels will normally remain active for a period of 12 months, after which the role will be re-advertised if it becomes vacant.
APPLICATIONS: COVER LETTER QUESTIONS
We kindly ask all applicants to submit a cover letter as part of their application. Within your cover letter, please respond to the following questions:
Screening Questions for Cover Letter
Applicants who do not address the required questions in their cover letter will not be considered for shortlisting.
Please outline why you are interested in the Development Executive role with Screen Ireland and how your experience and skills meet the essential requirements of the position.
Please summarise your experience of script assessment, editorial analysis or screen-project development, including the types of projects, genres or formats with which you have worked.
Please outline your experience of preparing clear, objective written assessments, reports or recommendations to support project, funding or editorial decision-making.
Please describe your experience of coordinating projects, funding schemes or development-related workflows, including managing priorities, deadlines and deliverables.
Please outline your experience of working collaboratively with creative professionals, industry stakeholders or colleagues as part of a multidisciplinary team.
SHORTLISTING / SELECTION PROCESS
Screen Ireland may, where necessary, apply a shortlisting process in order to manage the number of candidates progressing to interview. While applicants may meet the stated eligibility criteria, the volume of applications may mean it is not practical to call everyone forward for assessment.
In such circumstances, shortlisting will be based on the information provided in your cover letter, curriculum vitae, and responses to the questions set out in the job description. Particular emphasis will be placed on how applicants demonstrate the required core capabilities, as outlined in the Public Appointments Service (PAS) Capability Framework, alongside any desirable attributes identified for the role.
This process is designed to identify those candidates who, based on the evidence provided in their application, most closely match the role requirements. It does not imply that other candidates are unsuitable or incapable of undertaking the role; rather, it ensures that those whose qualifications, experience, and capability alignment appear most relevant are invited to interview.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process for roles within Screen Ireland may include one or more of the following stages:
Shortlisting of candidates based on the information provided in their application (CV and cover letter).
Written exercise or assessment, which may take place online or in person.
Presentation or other role-relevant exercises.
Interview(s), conducted either online or in person.
Work sample or other tests/assessments as deemed appropriate for the position.
Candidates invited to participate in any stage of the process will be provided with full details in advance. It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that their contact details are accurate and up to date.
If you are invited to an interview or assessment and are unable to attend at the specified time, it may not be possible to reschedule, and your application may be deemed withdrawn from the competition.
A panel of successful candidates may be established and retained for a period of up to one year from the date of appointment. Upon expiry of the panel, any subsequent vacancies will be readvertised in accordance with Screen Irelands Recruitment policies and procedures.
GUIDANCE FOR APPLICANTS
To ensure fairness and consistency, all candidates are advised to structure their application and interview responses using the STAR method :
S – Situation : Outline the background or context.
T – Task : Explain the challenge or responsibility you faced.
A – Action : Describe the specific steps you took.
R – Result : Share the outcome, learning, or impact.
During the selection process, candidates will be assessed against the Core Capabilities outlined in the Public Appointments Service (PAS) Capability Framework for the relevant grade. We strongly encourage applicants to:
Refer to the relevant grade capabilities when preparing examples.
Choose clear, specific examples that demonstrate how their experience meets the capability requirements.
Reflect both technical/professional expertise and behavioural competencies in their responses
CONFIDENTIALITY / DATA PROTECTION
Subject to the