Chief Information Officer (CIO)

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Chief Information Officer (CIO) is a senior strategic advisor for the Department on ICT, cyber security, and digital transformation.

The current ICT Division is made up of two Principal Officers and staffing of c. 35 augmented by c. 30 external ICT contractors based in Dublin, and a budget of €26.5mn for 2025.

Main Duties of the Job

The CIO, at Assistant Secretary level, will be a key leadership position reporting to a Deputy Secretary General and working closely with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Minister of State, Secretary General and Heads of Division as well as with Ireland's Ambassadors serving abroad.

The CIO will be responsible for leading digital transformation across the Department's global network, managing the provision of secure, reliable and quality information and communications technology and digital services across the Department, including an enhanced Passport Service and across a global network of over 100 diplomatic missions.

The CIO will focus on improving Departmental processes through the strategic, innovation and effective use of technology.

Essential Requirements

The person appointed will have:

• a relevant qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework for Qualifications.
• at least 5 years relevant senior leadership and management experience in an ICT/digital area of a large ICT enabled organisation.
• a working knowledge of relevant national and EU legislation such as GDPR, EU AI Act, etc.
• excellent ICT and digital skills and experience in strategic management of complex ICT and digital environments and a proven track record in delivering large scale ICT projects and systems underpinned by robust governance driving strong portfolio, programme and project management.
• a strong understanding of Irish public administration as well as knowledge of the policy context and current issues that may impact on Ireland's international relations and operations overseas.

Information about the Organisation

The mission of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is to serve Ireland, promote our values and advance our prosperity and interests abroad, and to provide the Government with the capabilities, analysis and influence to ensure that Ireland derives the maximum benefit from all areas of its external engagement.

The Department has over 3,000 staff located in Dublin, Limerick and Cork and across a global network of over 100 diplomatic missions abroad.

Selection Process Details

This is a Top Level Appointments Committee (TLAC) position.

Further information on this significant opportunity including details on how to apply, is available on our website via the button below.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 3pm on Thursday 15th January 2026.

If you feel you would benefit from a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Brian Jackson at

We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity and encourage applications under all nine grounds of the Employment Equality Act.