Learning Pathways Practice Lead

Vision Ireland is an organisation which provides support and services nationwide to people experiencing sight loss. We also provide a range of services to public and private organisations to make sure that their services are accessible to people who are blind and vision impaired. Vision Ireland Services currently has a vacancy for a Learning Pathways Practice Lead for the Employment, Training & Academia team.Location of Post: National Training Centre (Dublin 9), nationwide travel may be required.Working schedule: This is a full time, permanent role with working hours of 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Flexibility is required as you may need to work outside these hours from time to time.  Job Description:As the Learning Pathways Practice Lead at Vision Ireland, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission of creating inclusive pathways to employment for individuals who are blind or vision-impaired. You will be responsible for triaging and managing referrals, providing line management and supervision to the team, and overseeing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) initiatives. Third level qualification in relevant field is essential with senior practitioner or management experience.  Apply with cover letter and CV by Cover Letter and CV must be uploaded into the link provided together to ensure the success of the application.Garda vetting: Garda vetting will be conducted for the recommended candidate as part of the selection process for this post, in accordance with the Vision Ireland Garda Vetting Policy. .  Vision Ireland is an equal opportunity employer.        Reporting Relationships:Reports To: Employment, Training, and Academia ManagerDirect Reports: Team of QQI tutors, vision rehabilitation specialists and employment advisors. Purpose of the Post:The Learning Pathways Practice Lead will:·      Oversee the National Training Centre, integrating various programmes and training initiatives across Vision Ireland.·      Collaborate with the Manager of Employment, Training & Academia services to develop and execute a strategic vision for inclusive employment pathways.·      Advocate and implement New Direction and Value for Money policies across the division.·      Manage and optimise training operations within the Employment, Training & Academia sector.·      Provide strategic and operational guidance to ensure efficient service delivery and support to service users.·      Enhance team collaboration across departments and with external stakeholders to foster a cohesive working environment.·      Engage with fundraising departments to identify and secure new financial resources.·      Undertake responsibilities that influence academic and training standards within the organisation. Principal Duties and Responsibilities:·      Lead and manage diverse training and rehabilitation programs, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.·      Design and deliver targeted training for staff and service users, emphasising the adoption of New Directions.·      Develop and maintain robust training systems, ensuring all programmes meet regulatory and quality standards.·      Drive community engagement and networking to support user-specific goals.·      Manage relationships with educational and professional institutions to enhance training quality.·      Oversee key performance indicators, providing regular updates and reports to senior management.·      Cultivate a culture focused on rights-based, person-centred service delivery.·      Spearhead initiatives to ensure a comprehensive and compliant documentation process.·      Participate in and lead various committees and working groups to steer policy and operational changes.·      Manage academic records and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of all training and user data. Management Responsibilities:·      Promote and implement change initiatives within the team and broader organization.·      Develop and support team members, ensuring high standards in recruitment, retention, and staff development.·      Maintain rigorous health and safety standards in all operations.·      Coordinate development programs to enhance staff skills and service quality. Skills, Competencies, and Knowledge:·      Proven leadership capabilities with strong organisational and strategic planning skills.·      Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.·      Expert knowledge of training systems and a strong track record in educational program management.·      Ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and maintain high standards in training and service delivery. Above responsibilities reflect the current service requirements and may be subject to amendment to meet the changing needs of the service.