Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society,
The Showgrounds, Clifden, Co. Galway, H71 YA09
Reports to:
The Council (Board of Directors) of the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society
Liaison with:
Council Members and Executive Oicers; Company Secretary;
External Accountants; HR Advisors; Statutory and Regulatory Bodies; Stakeholders
Direct Reports:
Assistant Manager and other designated roles, with overall
management responsibility for the full staff team.
Role Purpose
The General Manager is the senior employee of the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society, responsible for the effective operational management and administrative efficiency of the organisation, and for supporting the Council in the discharge of its governance, statutory, and fiduciary responsibilities.
This role would particularly suit a candidate with a company secretarial or corporate governance qualification, a strong financial background, and proven management and HR experience, who is comfortable operating in a Council-led, member-based, regulated environment.
The General Manager is a key leadership position within the Society, responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations and supporting the Council in delivering its strategic vision. The role ensures that Council decisions are implemented efficiently, effectively, and in accordance with the Society’s Constitution, relevant legislation, and best practice.
Key Responsibilities
Council Support, Governance Compliance
- Support the Council in fulfilling its responsibilities under:
- Act as the principal operational and governance adviser to the Council, providing accurate, timely, and professional information
- Ensure Council decisions, policies, and resolutions are:
Appropriate administrative and organisational support
Preparation and collation of Council papers, reports, and records
- Maintain and coordinate organisational policies, procedures, and internal controls in line with Council direction Corporate Governance:
Support the Board in delivering its long-term strategic aims and lead all reviews of the strategic plan
Ensure policies and procedures covering all aspects of the organisation’s operations are reviewed on a planned basis or as necessary, as circumstances dictate
At Board meetings, account to the Directors on organisational performance
Ensure adequate compliance and control systems are in place to mitigate risk and, where necessary, identify and escalate risk appropriately to the Board
Executive Operational Management
- Act as head of operations for CPBS, ensuring the Society functions effectively on a day-to-day basis
- Lead and manage staff performance, workflows, and service delivery
- Ensure operational activities align with the strategic objectives set by the Council
- Develop and implement annual operational and service plans
- Promote a culture of professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement
Financial Management Control
- Oversee the financial administration and control of CPBS on behalf of the Council
- Work closely with external accountants, auditors, and the Council’s Finance Officer
- Prepare annual budgets for Council approval
- Produce clear and timely monthly management accounts and financial reports
- Ensure strong financial procedures, internal controls, and transparency are maintained
- Support the Council in safeguarding the long-term financial sustainability of the Society
Human Resources Employment Governance
- Overall responsibility for people management and HR administration
- Ensure compliance with employment legislation and HR best practice
- Lead recruitment, induction, performance management, and staff development processes
- Manage employee relations issues professionally and in line with policy and law
- Promote a respectful, safe, and positive working environment
Risk Management Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, and accreditation requirements
- Proactively identify operational and organisational risks
- Ensure appropriate controls are in place and escalate significant risks to the Council
- Protect the integrity, reputation, and assets of CPBS at all times
Communications Representation
- Act as a senior operational representative of CPBS with stakeholders, regulators, and external bodies
- Support the Council and Executive Oicers at public events and Society activities
- Oversee organisational communications and reputation management in conjunction with the Communications Manager
- Ensure consistency and professionalism in external messaging
General Duties (Applicable to All Employees)
- Attend work regularly, punctually, and professionally
- Carry out duties as directed by the Council or its authorised Officers
- Maintain confidentiality at all times
- Comply with health safety, security, and organisational policies
- Attend training and professional development as required
- Maintain work areas and equipment in good working order
- Promote the interests and reputation of CPBS
- Be available, where necessary, to attend events or respond to operational matters outside normal hours
- Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role
Person Specification
Essential
- Significant experience in a senior role involving:
Organisational management
Financial oversight and control
Advising Boards, Councils, or governing bodies
- Strong understanding of:
- Proven HR and people management experience
- Excellent judgement, discretion, communication, and organisational skills
Desirable
- Company secretarial, corporate governance, or legal qualification
- Background in finance, accounting, or financial management
- Experience in a charity, not-for-profit, or member-based organisation
- Experience operating in a regulated or accreditation-based environment
Working Conditions
- Office-based for the first 6 months of employment
- Hybrid working may be considered thereafter (minimum 3 days per week in the office)
- 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
- Core hours: 9.00am – 5.30pm
- Attendance required at Society events, which may include weekends and public holidays
Please Note: This Job Description is intended as a guide and is neither definitive nor restrictive.
Duties and responsibilities may be amended to meet the changing needs of the Society,
subject always to the Constitution and direction of the Council.
Salary
Up to €70,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
Closing date: Friday 30/06/2026
