The POA has a long tradition of serving its Prison Officer members with high-quality representation at local and national level. There are currently more than 3,600 members of the POA spread geographically across fourteen branches throughout the Republic of Ireland.

Whilst experience within a prison service would be desirable, it is not an essential requirement. However, previous experience at Senior Trade Union Official level is essential. Applicants would also need to demonstrate a thorough knowledge and understanding of the operations of the Irish Prison Service and the function of the POA if shortlisted for a competitive interview.

The General Secretary, as the Chief Executive of the Association, will deal with all administrative and secretarial matters relating to the Association. In the absence of the General Secretary, the Deputy General Secretary will deputise and carry out all of the General Secretary’s duties.

The duties and responsibilities of the General Secretary/Deputy General Secretary in this regard shall be:

To provide accurate information on all issues to the National Executive Council of the Prison Officers’ Association, the Annual Conference, and any Special Delegate Conferences as required.

Both the General Secretary and Deputy General Secretary will be responsible for the implementation of decisions taken at the Annual Conference, any Special Delegate Conferences, or by the National Executive Council. They will attend to the day-to-day affairs of the Association between National Executive Council meetings and produce reports to be presented at each Annual Conference. They will also be in attendance at each Annual Conference to answer any/all questions from the delegatesarising from such reports.

The General Secretary/Deputy General Secretary shall be the Chief Negotiators for the Association and therefore will be required to have considerable experience in negotiations and representing individuals and groups at all levels. The General Secretary/Deputy General Secretary will be proven organisers with excellent written and oral communication skills.

Previous experience of dealing with the different forms of media is essential. The Deputy General Secretary will report directly to the General Secretary, and both will be responsible for supervising the work of two Assistant General Secretaries and other clerical staff.

The General Secretary/Deputy General Secretary will also handle major projects and devise and develop strategies to improve efficiencies within the Association. They will both provide advice and guidance at all levels within the organisation, together with the provision of excellent and current Industrial Relations expertise and knowledge.

A relevant academic qualification, whilst an advantage, is not considered essential. Initiative and people-handling skills, however, are seen as essential requirements. A full, valid driving licence and own car are also required. 

Applicants for the role of General Secretary will be required to make a presentation at a structured competitive board interview.

If you feel you have the experience, skills and drive for either of these demanding roles, please apply by requesting an application form and submitting a brief letter outlining why you feel you meet the above criteria to: 

Mr Pat Cuffe, 

HR Consultant 

c/o Prison Officers’ Association

18 Merrion Square

Dublin 2