Communications Executive

(Full-time, six-month fixed term contract)

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) is the Regulatory Body for horseracing in Ireland. The IHRB is responsible for the integrity and reputation of Irish horseracing. It is also responsible for the licensing of all participants in Irish racing. Adherence to the Rules of Racing on race day is overseen by the Raceday Stewards. 

The IHRB is now seeking a Communications Executive with a strong interest in horseracing for a six-month fixed term contract in the Communications Department to assist in the development and initial implementation of a multi-year Communications Strategy as well as other duties in the department. Working directly with the Head of Communications and Strategy, the successful candidate will be predominately office based at the Offices of the IHRB in County Kildare but with some duties to take place at race meetings across the 26 racecourses in Ireland. As well as the primary focus of assisting in the development of a Communications Strategy, other daily tasks include, but are not limited to:

Typical Duties:

• Dealing with internal and external communications
• Implementing the initial phases of a new communication strategy
• Promoting an understanding of IHRB functions and activities
• Attending disciplinary hearings
• Writing and distributing press releases
• Managing content on the IHRB website
• Receiving and issuing ground reports for each race meeting
• Updating social media channels

The Person

The successful candidate will be a motivated and proactive individual with a strong work ethic and a passion for horseracing. To be considered for this position you will need to be a clear communicator with excellent written and verbal skills, have strong attention to detail and be able to work under pressure and as part of a dynamic team. Horseracing is a seven-day a week sport and the role will be a 35-hour working week to involve a mix of weekend work, public holidays, evenings, and early morning starts. The role will be predominately office-based with some duties to be carried out on racecourses, so a full Driving Licence and use of own vehicle is essential.

Education, Knowledge & Experience

• Previous experience working in Media or Communications
• Excellent communication, organisational, verbal, and written skills
• Strong computer knowledge (Word, Outlook) and general IT skills are essential.
• A self-starter capable of working on their own initiative and as part of a team.
• Must be meticulous - paying great attention to accuracy and detail.
• Horseracing Industry knowledge

The salary for this position is €27,000 per year prorated for the six month duration of this contract, with the potential for this six-month fixed term contract to be extended. Travel & subsistence allowances will be paid in line with organisational policies and other approved expenses will be reimbursed. The period for this fixed-term contract will be six months. Anyone interested in being considered for the position should submit a CV and a covering letter clearly setting out why they feel they should be considered.

The closing date for applications has been extended to 23rd October 2023. Applications should be sent to: [email protected].

Informal enquiries to [email protected].