Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Invest Northern Ireland
About Invest Northern Ireland
Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) is at the forefront of economic development, dedicated to accelerating growth by supporting businesses in increasing external sales and innovation. Our mission is to create high-quality jobs, boost productivity and skills, grow inward investment, and reduce carbon emissions. Our strategic priorities include boosting business investment, accelerating innovation and skills, driving global ambition, developing sustainability, and promoting places and partnerships.
As a global organisation with a Head Office in Belfast and a regional presence across Northern Ireland, Invest NI operates offices in 30 locations outside Northern Ireland, assisting local companies in expanding their export base and promoting Northern Ireland as a premier investment destination. As a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) of the Department for the Economy (DfE), we play a critical role in delivering DfE’s Economic Vision, the new Business Strategy, City & Growth Deals (C&GDs), and the recommendations of the Independent Review of Invest NI.
About the Role
Invest NI is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join our Executive Committee. This role offers a unique opportunity to significantly impact Northern Ireland’s economy by leading key internal operations and driving strategic initiatives.
The COO will be responsible for leading the effective internal operation of the organisation across key corporate functions. This includes overseeing Finance, Governance, Risk, Legal, People & Culture, Marketing, Communications, ICT, Strategy & Partnerships, and Economist Services. The role involves managing a budget of over £100 million, ensuring it is strategically profiled and optimally allocated to deliver the organisation’s priorities.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and working closely with the Invest NI Board, the COO will lead a team of over 200 staff, primarily professional staff located in Belfast. They will drive a substantial change agenda, including transformation and modernisation across all corporate functions. The COO will also lead the assessment and commercial appraisal of investment decisions, ensuring compliance and process efficiency, and lead the preparation of the annual financial report and accounts.
The role requires implementing the action plan derived from the recent Independent Review, embedding effective organisational change, and developing a forward-looking People and Organisation Strategy. The COO will also lead the development and delivery of a new Marketing and Communications Strategy to support Invest NI’s corporate strategy and the NI economic vision.
About the Candidate
The ideal candidate will possess a relevant accountancy qualification. They should have comprehensive experience in financial management, including managing budgets in excess of £100 million per annum. Significant experience in leveraging financial knowledge to support new business or grow existing business is essential.
Candidates should have experience in leading teams in at least three of the following areas: Finance, Governance, Risk, Legal, People & Culture, Marketing, Communications, ICT, Strategy & Partnerships, and Economist Services. Recent experience in building and developing relationships to achieve significant business outcomes is crucial.
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong strategic awareness, leadership skills, and resource management capabilities. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are necessary, as the role requires engaging with stakeholders at all levels, including national and international media. The ability to travel as required by the role is also necessary.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your application online, via clicking APPLY NOW.
If you are unable to apply online, please email your application to response.manager@berwickpartners.co.uk. All applications will receive an automated response.
Candidates are also requested to complete an online Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form as part of the application process. For more information on how we process your personal data, please review our privacy policy on our website.
For any queries or further information, please contact Marek Dobrowolski at Berwick Partners on +44 (0) 7793 529 576 or via email at marek.dobrowolski@berwickpartners.co.uk.
Join us at Invest Northern Ireland and play a pivotal role in shaping the economic future of Northern Ireland!
Closing date for applications: 9am on Thursday 9th January 2025