We’re hiring a Director of Operations - Interested?
Who are we?
Ability West is embarking on an exciting journey of transformational change -focused on enhancing the lives of the people we support and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and strong leadership across our organisation. We operate a leading non‑profit organisation, providing person‑centred disability services for people with complex intellectual, and physical disabilities. In partnership with the Health Service Executive, we empower each person we support to live a meaningful and self‑directed life.
Founded 64 years ago by families advocating for better supports, Ability West now serves more than 600 adults and children across Galway City and County through a network of over 70 centres. Our services include day services, residential and respite support (adults and children), community support, therapeutic interventions, training centres, living my life project, best buddies and community inclusion programmes. In addition, we are patron to four schools which support over 170 children. Ability West continues to evolve to meet community needs, champion inclusion, and deliver high‑quality, person‑led supports.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Operations with exceptional people skills and a passion for inclusive service delivery. This is a pivotal role for someone who wants to make a meaningful impact—supporting both the people we support and staff teams through a period of strategic growth and cultural reform
What is the role?
Full-time, permanent.
We believe everyone should have meaningful opportunities to learn, develop, and reach their potential.
We create environments where people can participate fully in their communities and live self‑directed lives—and we seek leaders who are energised by supporting that ambition.
As Director of Operations, you will provide senior leadership and coordination of all operational services across Ability West. Working through an established line‑management structure, you will ensure the consistent, safe, and high‑quality delivery of services across all centres. You will lead operational planning, performance, and service development, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and compliance with regulatory and contractual standards. The initial appointment is responsible for Galway East.
You will play a key role in organisational decision‑making as a member of the Senior Management Team and will contribute to corporate, governance, and policy forums as required by the Chief Executive, reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer.
Who does the role report to?
The Director of Operations is a senior role and the successful candidate will work closely with the Chief Executive and will collaborate across the senior leadership team, including the Directors of Finance, Human Resources, Estates and Transportation, Quality, Compliance & Nursing, Technology and Transformation, the four Clinical Leads and MDT functions.
The role also will also provide leadership to Area Service Managers and work in partnership with the Multi-Disciplinary teams, Volunteer Programme Manager, Respite and Community Services Manager, Operational Support Officer, Designated Officer, and Unit Directors/Persons in Charge, ensuring cohesive, high‑quality service delivery across the organisation.
What do you need to have?
Sector & Strategic Understanding
Deep understanding of sector‑wide strategic issues, trends, and best‑practice models in disability and social care service delivery.
Strong awareness of the broader public‑sector macro‑economic environment and its implications for organisational planning and priorities.
Knowledge of national policy developments, sector structures, representational systems, and key stakeholders.
Governance, Compliance & Regulatory Environment
Comprehensive knowledge of legal, regulatory, statutory, and governance frameworks.
Experience operating within robust governance and quality systems, procedures, and processes.
Operational & Organisational Knowledge
Strong understanding of organisational structures, systems, roles, and operational processes.
Expertise in resource planning and management, including workforce, financial, and infrastructural resources.
Proven capability in service planning, development, and delivery.
Change, Innovation & Transformation
Significant experience leading change management initiatives in complex environments.
Knowledge and practical experience implementing the ‘Time to Move On from Congregated Settings policy’, including transitioning individuals to community‑based living arrangements.
Other Requirements
Full clean driver’s licence and access to own vehicle.
Be eligible to work in Ireland and possess all necessary permits/visas if applicable.
What do we offer?
Salary Range - Grade VIII, seven-point scale - €78,945 - €96,749
Supervision appropriate to experience levels
Opportunities for professional development and career growth
CPD is actively encouraged and regular training and supervision provided
A flexible and supportive work environment
Pension
10% corporate discount from choice of three LAYA Corporate Plans.
Need more information?
Go to Join Our Team — Ability West for additional details and for informal queries, please email ceo@abilitywest.ie and Cristina.Mendes@Abilitywest.ie
Thinking about it?
Don’t take too long! The closing date for applications will be March 19th 2026, with interviews to be held on March 26th 2026.