Finance Manager

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 ideal candidate will possess extensive financial expertise, having held mid to senior management positions within a fast-paced and expanding public sector organisation. This role is both dynamic and demanding, requiring the candidate to quickly understand the intricacies of Screen Ireland's business and operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the agency’s accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, implementing robust internal financial controls, and complying with regulatory and best practice standards. The role holder will manage daily financial activities, prepare budgets and forecasts, and analyse performance to ensure within funding limits and public expenditure guidance. They will manage a small finance team. Collaborating closely with the Director of Business and Finance and the Head of Finance, Governance, Risk and Compliance, the successful candidate will drive transformative initiatives within the Finance function in alignment with the Executive Leadership's development plans for the finance function.

FUNCTION OVERVIEW

The Finance team is responsible for the budgetary and financial management of the agency’s funds which includes provision of grant funding, value for money, compliance with financial procedures, strong corporate governance and the safeguarding of the agency’s assets to support the goals of Fís Éireann/ Screen Ireland. The total income for the agency is currently circa €43m, which provides for operational activities and is funded through government grants from the Department of Culture, Communication and Sport and other internally generated income.

JOB GRADE / REPORTING LINE

It is anticipated that in order to have the required skills and competencies, the post will be at the Engineer Grade II & Professional Accountant Grade II First Point level.This role reports directly to the Head of Finance, Governance, Risk and Compliance and works with colleagues in the finance function and with internal stakeholders to ensure effective coordination, communication, and delivery of executive priorities. Reporting arrangements may be reviewed periodically to reflect organisational needs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Managing and overseeing the finance function within Fís Éireann/ Screen Ireland covering key areas including Accounts payable, Accounts Receivable, General Ledger, Payroll, Bank Reconciliations and Balance Sheet Reconciliations.
• Executing the Agency’s finance plan to ensure delivery of the agency’s strategic goals. 
• Supporting Fís Éireann/ Screen Ireland in fulfilling statutory and corporate functions in line with principles of good financial management. 
• Developing and executing accounting policies, systems, procedures, and financial strategies to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting and tax compliance of the agency.
• Supervising the development and monitoring of control systems to safeguard Fís Éireann/ Screen Ireland's assets and resources and ensure adherence to recognised accounting standards and government financial procedures.
• Support the preparation of the annual estimates and subsequent capital and current budgets based on approved funding.
• Conducting spend analysis and identifying opportunities for cost savings and enhanced value for money.
• Ensure prompt and accurate completion of monthly management reports as well as providing strategic support to the Head of Finance, Governance, Risk and Compliance and the Director of Business and Finance.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive financial management reports, conducting thorough financial analysis, forecasts and tracking key performance indicators.
• Liaising with the parent department, responding to queries and requests in a timely manner.
• Ensure department drawdown requests are submitted in a timely manner.
• Preparing the draft annual financial statements for approval by senior management.
• Liaise with internal and statutory external auditors to ensure the timely completion of audits. 
• Manage and oversee the company database to ensure it is up to date for all project funding awards and loan repayments.
• Advocating for and implementing ICT solutions to enhance organisational efficiency including the development of financial data analytics capabilities and performance metrics.
• Fostering the professional development of team members through providing feedback, coaching, and growth opportunities, while also managing performance issues. 
• Collaborate closely with all teams, offering financial guidance and support.
• Undertaking any additional duties assigned by senior management and the executive.

 The postholders will contribute flexibly across the team, supporting colleagues with activities aligned to the 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.

KEY REQUIREMENTS ESSENTIAL

• Possess a minimum Level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) major award or its equivalent.
• Be a qualified accountant with membership of a professional accountancy body such as ACCA, CIMA etc.
• 5+ years’ PQE with strong technical ability and attention to detail.
• Have at least 3 years relevant experience in a similar role in a comparable organisation overseeing complex financial operations and leading enhancements and positive transformations from a financial or accounting standpoint, preferably within the public sector or comparable organisational frameworks.
• Substantial background in budget management and financial reporting within a comparable organisational setting.
• Experience in managing teams within a growing organisation.
• Demonstrable expertise and ability in building effective working relationships, along with the capability to influence and cultivate strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Evidence of project management experience.

KEY SKILLS - PAS CAPABILITY FRAMEWORK

• A proactive individual capable of working independently and within a team, possessing strong multitasking abilities, and focused on achieving results. 
• Effective planning and organisational skills, with the capacity to prioritise tasks efficiently in a dynamic and high-pressure environment. 
• Demonstrated leadership proficiency, including the ability to manage lead, inspire, coach, and develop staff to deliver high-quality results within tight deadlines. 
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, encompassing negotiation, report writing, and presentation abilities. 
• Sound judgement, problem-solving acumen, analytical expertise, and decisive decision-making skills. 
• Self-awareness regarding learning needs and proactive pursuit of learning opportunities. 
• Adept at leading, developing, and executing strategic financial management initiatives. 
• Proficient in analysing data, innovating cost-effective service delivery methods, and utilising efficient and effective financial management systems. 
• Effective conflict management and leadership abilities, capable of engaging peers in a fast-paced environment. 
• Adept at working under pressure and employing lateral thinking to address diverse financial challenges. 
• Exemplary personal integrity standards. 
• Proficient in utilising various financial software packages and possessing a high level of ICT literacy, with the ability to leverage technology to streamline workplace processes.

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: 

1. Core Capability: Building Future Readiness

As a proactive and adaptable professional, the postholder will anticipate change, embrace innovation, and contribute to the organisation’s long-term resilience. They will confidently use and adapt to new technologies, promoting digital solutions that enhance efficiency and impact. They will maintain strong strategic awareness, understanding emerging trends and translating them into practical actions and recommendations. The postholder will adjust effectively to changing priorities, external developments, and organisational needs, demonstrating flexibility and sound judgement. They will also commit to continuous learning, developing their professional knowledge, and seeking out opportunities to learn, share skills, and embed new practices across teams. 

2. Core Capability: Evidence-Informed Delivery

The postholder will demonstrate an ability to make sound, evidence-based decisions and ensure that projects and programmes deliver measurable results. They will gather, analyse, and interpret qualitative and quantitative information to inform planning, reporting, and strategic recommendations. They will apply analytical thinking and professional judgement to solve problems and make well-reasoned assessments. The role requires consistent tracking of progress against objectives, measuring outcomes, and contributing to continuous improvement processes. The postholder will deliver high-quality outputs on time and within agreed parameters, ensuring that all work aligns with organisational priorities and contributes to effective service delivery. 

3. Core Capability: Leading & Empowering

At this level, leadership is demonstrated through ownership, initiative, and collaboration. The postholder will take responsibility for delivering agreed objectives and maintaining high professional standards. They will support colleagues, partners, and project teams by providing guidance, constructive feedback, and practical assistance where needed. They will contribute to a positive, respectful, and inclusive team culture, modelling professionalism in daily interactions. The role requires working effectively across functions, building collaborative relationships, and contributing to shared goals to ensure collective success. 

4. Core Capability: Communicating & Collaborating

The postholder will communicate clearly, confidently, and professionally, tailoring their communication style to suit a range of audiences and contexts. They will build and sustain productive relationships with colleagues, external partners, and key stakeholders across the sector. They will participate actively in team discussions, sharing information, supporting problem-solving, and contributing to joined-up approaches. The postholder will use tact, diplomacy, and negotiation skills to achieve positive outcomes, maintain strong working relationships, and support effective delivery across the organisation. 

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 integrate EDI considerations into daily practices and communications, use inclusive and respectful language, and contribute to a workplace culture where all colleagues and stakeholders feel valued and supported. They will engage in ongoing EDI learning, challenge behaviours or practices that undermine fairness or inclusion, and consider the impact of decisions on different groups. Through their conduct, they will model professionalism, integrity, and Screen Ireland’s commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable screen sector.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

• An additional relevant qualification in an in an area considered relevant to the role (e.g. corporate governance, risk management, legal, taxation, ICT)
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and executing strategic initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience of implementing IT automated changes in a finance function.
• Irish language proficiency is desirable.

ROLE DETAILS AND TERMS

• This position is at the Professional Accountant Grade II and is remunerated at €75,448 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 February 2026 pay adjustments.
• This is a full-time permanent 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 Head of Finance, Governance, Risk, and Compliance.
• The post will be based in Galway.
• Annual leave (excluding bank holidays) of 27 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.

Applicants who do not address the required questions in their cover letter will not be considered for shortlisting.

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.

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 

 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

CONFIDENTIALITY

Subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2014, applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

DATA PROTECTION

Personal data will be processed in accordance with our 

.

COMMITMENT TO EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Screen Ireland is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace which values and benefits from the diversity of the workforce. Screen Ireland is under the aegis of the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.Screen Ireland is committed to the future success of the industry through strategic investments in talent and skills with diversity, equity, and inclusion at its core. We understand that fostering a positive culture, underpinned by values of fairness, sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion, is crucial in attracting and retaining talent. As an inclusive organisation, we actively work towards promoting diversity and inclusion throughout the entire screen sector. Our comprehensive approach to capacity development ensures that every initiative is designed to be accessible to all, reflecting our dedication to a diverse and equitable industry. In our recruitment activities, we prioritise creating a workforce that exemplifies diversity and equality, setting a new benchmark for excellence and inclusivity. Screen Ireland welcomes all to join us on this path towards shaping a screen industry that celebrates collective talent and the strength found in diversity.

ACCESSIBILITY AND REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

Screen Ireland is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require reasonable accommodations at any stage of the selection process, please let us know by emailing recruitment@screenireland.ie. We will make every effort to provide the necessary arrangements to support your participation. If you have any questions about accessibility or the accommodations process, please contact our Human Resources Team as outlined in the relevant job advertisement on our