Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Institute of Advertising Practitioners in Ireland
Overview
IAPI is the leading representative body for Ireland’s advertising, media, and communications industry. Our membership includes over 70 agencies from advertising, creative, media, events, digital, and PR sectors. Our mission is to position and champion the industry as a recognised driver of responsible growth for our members, the community, and the economy.
Role summary
Our focus is on people, performance, and elevating the industry's reputation. This role is pivotal in driving our objectives, which include fostering excellence in leadership, creativity, innovation, and equality through top-tier training and education.
You will position Ireland as a global hub for commercial creativity and media planning, attracting leading talent and high-profile clients. A key priority is to promote responsible production and consumption practices, while advancing diversity and inclusion as both strategic and economic essentials.
Additionally, you will advocate for our members' interests at corporate, governmental, and international levels, ensuring their voices are influential and respected. This role is essential to solidifying the industry's standing.
Key responsibilities
We are seeking a visionary CEO to lead IAPI and drive the industry to its next stage of growth. This role involves:
- Developing a Corporate Affairs strategy to broaden the industry’s business and political influence. You will be the primary spokesperson for the sector, fostering strong ties with government and key stakeholders.
- Ensuring member satisfaction by delivering robust support and advocacy, empowering member agencies to thrive.
- Building a strong rapport with the IAPI Board
- Collaborating with partner trade bodies (including MII, ICAD, ASA, AAI, IDI, IAB Ireland, CPI, PRII, PRCA).
- Leading and inspiring a dedicated executive team to provide exceptional member services, events, programmes, and awards.
- Driving growth in membership and revenue, while maintaining financial targets.
- Keeping abreast of industry trends, government policies, and advertising regulations to keep members fully informed and ensure compliance.
- Overseeing the Ad Net Zero initiative in Ireland.
- Overseeing the relationship with Lions as the Festival Rep for Ireland.
- Overseeing the relationship with Effie Worldwide as the licence holder of Effie Awards Ireland.
Other Industry responsibilities
- The CEO of IAPI would be expected to serve at least one term as a non-executive member of the board of the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)
- The CEO of IAPI jointly shares executive responsibilities with the CEO of the Advertising Association in Ireland (AAI), for overseeing Copyclear (CCCI), the advisory and approval organisation for the self-regulation of alcohol advertising in Ireland.
- As IAPI are a member of the EACA (European Association of Communication Agencies), the CEO of IAPI would be expected to represent the Irish industry and their interests at both virtual and in-person meetings of the European National Associations that occur throughout the year.
Work environment
This is a hybrid role, offering a balance of remote and in-office work. Our offices are located in 6 Mount Street Upper, Dublin, D02 VF44, and the team generally works two days per week in the office. Board meetings are held monthly, with in-person Board meetings every other month to facilitate face-to-face discussions. Additionally, events, training sessions, and networking opportunities are all conducted in person, fostering strong relationships and industry connections.
Key success metrics
Your impact as CEO will be measured by your successful delivery of the strategic plan, as agreed with the Board. This includes managing the IAPI investment fund to strengthen executive and lobbying efforts.
Key expectations include growing revenue streams from membership, sponsorship, and event ticketing, alongside maintaining financial stability. A crucial benchmark of your success will be a high member satisfaction rate, targeting 90%+ in the Annual IAPI Census.
Candidate profile
We are looking for a proven leader with a passion for the industry, a strategic mindset, and a clear sense of purpose. You should have a well-established network and extensive industry experience, demonstrating a readiness to embrace challenges and seize opportunities. Familiarity with the agency landscape is advantageous, alongside strong skills in stakeholder management. A history of effective media engagement, leadership, and team motivation is essential.
Additionally, you must be able to manage a small enterprise and ideally have board experience. Your leadership will be anchored by a strong reputation, political acumen, and the ability to balance diverse stakeholder interests. You will be expected to drive growth, champion excellence, and uphold responsible and sustainable practices in the sector.
Remuneration
A competitive base salary with a performance-related bonus, plus an additional target-based bonus tied to achieving agreed revenue and surplus targets at year-end. The package also includes 30 days of annual leave and a mobile phone.
Apply before 19th November 2024
Please apply with a covering letter, explaining why you believe you would be the ideal candidate for this role, along with your CV to iapiceo@iapi.com.
Recruitment Timing
19th November 2024 - deadline for applications
IAPI hope to appoint the successful candidate before the end of December 2024.
IAPI is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their gender, age, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
