Paid Chief Executive Officer Organisation Balmer Dawson Executive Search Hours Full-time Location Dublin 15

Balmer Dawson Executive Search

  • Northside Dublin
  • €105,000 per year
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
Balmer Dawson Executive Search is delighted to partner with Sonas Domestic Violence Charity in the search for their next Chief Executive Officer.This is a pivotal opportunity for an experienced and hands-on leader to take the helm of Ireland's largest provider of frontline domestic abuse services.Sonas is seeking a strong operator; someone with the drive, resilience and proven management expertise to lead an evolving organisation, oversee significant operational expansion, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, life-changing services for women and children.The successful candidate will combine strategic vision with operational excellence, bringing the ability to manage people, systems and resources effectively while representing the organisation with credibility to funders, government, regulators and the wider community.About SonasSonas Domestic Violence Charity CLG (“Sonas”) is the largest provider of frontline services to women and children experiencing domestic abuse in the greater Dublin region. For over 30 years, they have provided refuge, safe homes and transitional housing, alongside advocacy and support services. Each year, Sonas supports more than 1,250 women and children who have been forced to leave their homes due to domestic abuse.Sonas is a registered charity (CRA No. 20028497) and a voluntary housing association regulated by the Approved Housing Bodies Regulatory Authority.VisionSonas believes no woman or child should experience, or be at risk of experiencing, domestic abuse. Where abuse does occur, victims should have immediate access to interventions and supports that guarantee their safety and wellbeing. They work to achieve this vision by:
  • Recognising and upholding the rights of women and children.
  • Promoting prevention strategies that reduce the incidence of domestic violence.
  • Delivering timely, effective, and high-quality support services.
  • Advocating for victims' rights within the justice system and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.
  • Shaping policy, public awareness, and legislation to address domestic abuse.
The RoleThe CEO will provide strategic leadership and operational management, ensuring Sonas continues to deliver high-quality services while growing its capacity and impact. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for:
  • Implementing and monitoring strategic and operational plans.
  • Leading the senior management team and fostering a positive, inclusive organisational culture.
  • Overseeing service delivery, governance, compliance, and risk management.
  • Managing financial performance, budgets, and funding relationships.
  • Representing Sonas externally with government, regulators, funders, partner organisations, and the media.
  • Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders.
A key priority in the immediate term will be overseeing the opening of two new refuges in the Dublin area, significantly expanding organisational capacity.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership
  • Lead the development and implementation of strategic and operational plans.
  • Identify opportunities for growth, improvement and partnerships.
  • Report to the Board and ensure strong governance practices.
Operations & Service Delivery
  • Oversee service delivery in line with agreed standards, regulations, and SLAs.
  • Manage budgets, finances, and reporting requirements.
  • Maintain risk management frameworks and legal compliance.
  • Support and manage the senior management team and wider staff.
Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy
  • Maintain effective relationships with regulators (CRA, AHBRA), funders and government bodies (Cuan/Department of Justice), and other domestic violence and voluntary sector organisations.
  • Act as the primary spokesperson for Sonas, promoting their work and advocating for change.
Marketing & Communications
  • Ensure accurate and impactful public messaging.
  • Represent Sonas at events, conferences, and in the media.
The PersonEssential Experience & Skills
  • Minimum 5 years' experience in a senior management role.
  • Proven track record of delivering strategic and operational goals on time and within budget.
  • Strong financial and commercial acumen.
  • Experience meeting governance, legal, and reporting obligations.
  • Excellent relationship-building, communication, and influencing skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
  • Alignment with the mission and values of Sonas, with a strong commitment to supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse.
Desirable
  • Knowledge of governance and legal responsibilities in the voluntary sector.
  • Experience working with housing bodies.
  • Experience working in a front line capacity is an advantage.
  • Media and public speaking experience.
  • Previous engagement with government departments.
  • Experience handling sensitive personal and organisational data.
Salary & Benefits
  • Salary is €105,000 + per annum (DOE)
  • Pension - matching contribution up to a maximum of 5% of gross salary
  • 26 days annual leave per annum
  • Life Insurance
  • Wellbeing program
  • Learning and development programs
  • Tax-save commuter ticket
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • On-site parking
Location & Hours
  • Monday to Friday - 9.00am to 5.30pm
  • Dublin 15
  • On-site requirement of 5 days per week
  • Travel expected between the different refuges around Dublin
Application DetailsApplications and Queries:To apply, please submit your CV and Cover Letter (maximum one page), in Microsoft Word format, outlining how your motivation, experience and skills are a fit for this role profile. Please make your application for the attention of BOTH Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson to the following email address:Any queries should be directed to Gilly Balmer and Zena Dawson at

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