Head of Advocacy, Research & Learning
Service: Head Office/Regional Office
Location: Limerick or Dublin
Duration: Contract of Indefinite Duration
Hours: 40 hours per week
Post Reference No: HR261104
Published: 11th November 2026
Application Closing Date: 25th November 2026 at 4 pm
Interviews Scheduled: 7th December 2026
NOVAS is a not for profit organisation and Approved Housing Body. We work with single adults, couples and families who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. We provide a range of support services and accommodation. We have over 300 staff, and more than 30 services in Limerick, Dublin, Clare, Kerry, Cork and Tipperary including residential homeless services, social housing and community based services for tenancy sustainment, homelessness prevention, mental health and recovery.
The Head of Advocacy, Research & Learning is a Senior Leadership Team position, responsible for advancing NOVAS advocacy, research, communications and organisational learning priorities.
The postholder will lead the development and coordination of NOVAS’ research programme, public policy advocacy and engagement with relevant statutory, academic and voluntary sector partners. They will ensure that NOVAS advocacy and organisational development are informed by research, evidence, service experience and the lived and living experiences of clients and tenants, through trauma informed practice.
NOVAS is a Trauma Informed practice organisation and the principles of collaboration, diversity, respect and trust are embedded in our way of working together. Our services are provided through support of our partners in local government through the Local Authorities, HSE, and other donors and funders
The appropriate candidate will demonstrate (Please see Job Description for complete Person
Specification)
▪ A relevant third-level qualification, preferably at master’s level, in social policy, social sciences, research, public policy, communications or a related discipline.
▪ 3 years+ of senior management experience
▪ Personnel and project management experience.
▪ Significant experience in research, public policy, advocacy or a related field.
▪ A strong understanding of the Irish public policy environment, particularly in relation to homelessness, housing, health or social inclusion.
▪ Experience of developing research reports, policy submissions, publications or evidence-based organisational materials.
▪ Experience of managing staff, projects or external partnerships.
▪ Excellent written communication, analytical and presentation skills.
▪ Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop effective relationships with a range of stakeholders.
▪ Experience of representing an organisation or professional body in external meetings, networks or forums.
▪ Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
▪ Strong IT and digital communication skills.
▪ A commitment to the values and mission of NOVAS and an understanding of Trauma Informed Practice.
▪ A full driving licence and access to transport for work-related travel.
We offer a competitive benefits package including 26 days annual leave pro rata, access to further education supports and contributory pension.
If you would like to work for NOVAS, further information about the role, including the job description, can be found on the careers section of our website https://novas.ie/careers-withnovas/.
To apply for this role, please submit a CV (maximum 2 pages) and a cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your suitability for the role to tracey.mccarthy@novas.ie