The Representative Church Body (RCB) is the trustee of the Church of Ireland and is responsible for developing policy to support the administration of parishes in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Parishes in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are registered charities and are subject to state law including child and adult safeguarding and other state legislation. The RCB is seeking to recruit a Head of Safeguarding who would be responsible for the Church of Ireland Safeguarding function, manage safeguarding staff in the delivery of their service. This new position will report directly to the independent Chair of the Safeguarding Board in relation to safeguarding and to the Chief Officer in relation to any employment or RCB matters. Main Duties and Responsibilities Oversee the Safeguarding function and service provided by the RCB. Management of safeguarding staff, reviewing policy and ensuring best practice. Member of the complaints triage group (with the safeguarding managers). Advise the Safeguarding Case Management Committee. Attend and report to the Safeguarding Board. Advise the RCB and dioceses in relation to compliance with legislation. Work with Communications Department in relation to public enquiries. Complete other assignments as determined from time to time. Qualifications, experience and competencies Essential Qualification in law, safeguarding or other relevant discipline. Desirable Post graduate qualifications in law, safeguarding, human resources or data protection. Experience Essential Minimum of 5 years experience providing policy or legal advice in relation to safeguarding. Desirable Experience in working with and advising different organisations or contexts. Knowledge & Skills Essential Able to demonstrate an ability to understand complex organisations and problems. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and to support senior leaders. Experience of dealing with statutory authorities. Experience of dealing with safeguarding legal cases. Desirable An understanding of church-state relations and the governance of the Church of Ireland. Other Essential Willing to work flexibly and to travel within Ireland and Northern Ireland. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Able to work and live in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Representative Church Body reserves the right to amend these criteria for the purposes of shortlisting. Any amendments to the criteria will be applied equally to all candidates. Terms and Conditions of Appointment: Appointment: This is a permanent position. Hours of work: Full time (core 35-hour week). Location: Dublin or Belfast Remuneration: Dependent on experience/qualifications Applications To apply, please submit your CV by 8th March 2026