Applications for this competition close on Tuesday, 13th of October.
Apply Now!The Role
An Administrative Officer (Finance Policy) may be involved in assessing and advising on national and international financial developments and providing policy advice designed to support the Government’s social and economic policy objectives. An Administrative Officer (AO) may be required to advise and brief senior management and Ministers on financial and business policies and contribute to the drafting, and passage through the Oireachtas, of legislation concerning financial issues.
An AO may also be involved in monitoring and reporting on the financial performance of individual financial institutions and providing support and advice on their area of responsibilities including: preparation of financial models, risk analysis and developing appropriate methodologies.
The Department of Finance
A key Department recruiting at this grade is the Department of Finance whose mission is to lead in the achievement of the Government’s economic, fiscal and financial policy goals, having regard to the commitments set out in the Programme for Government.
The Department’s goals are set out in its Statement of Strategy 2026-2027 and are as follows:
- Balanced, sustainable economic growth
- Sound Public Finances
- Well regulated, sustainable banking and financial sector
- International leadership in economic, fiscal and financial decision making
- Promoting environmentally sustainable economic progress
- An organisation with a shared sense of purpose where our people are valued, supported and empowered to deliver on our strategy
The Department plays a key role in developing policy responses to a range of economic and geopolitical challenges that face the State. AOs can expect to be employed in a range of roles across the economic and policy Divisions in the Department. This spans areas from Banking and International Financial Services, Tax Policy, Economic Analysis and Planning and consideration of economic impacts of key societal issues such as climate change, housing and health. The Department has a significant focus on EU and International Affairs, with associated opportunities to represent Ireland on the EU and international stage.
Please note that while the majority of vacancies that arise for this stream will be for the Department of Finance, vacancies may also arise in other Government Departments throughout the lifetime of the competition.
Responsibilities
The main areas of responsibilities for an Administrative Officer (Finance Policy) may include:
- assessing and advising Ministers and senior management on financial developments, including strategic developments in International Financial Services, financial stability and regulatory issues
- preparation of advice and briefing for senior management and Ministers on financial and business topics arising in a national, EU, or global context
- The development and implementation of legislation and strategies at EU/Euro area level and internationally in relation to economic, fiscal and financial policy formulation
- contributing to the development of tax policy and its implementation domestically via the Budget process, including the preparation of pre-budget submissions for the Minister for Finance and the drafting and preparation of legislation
- supporting the Minister for Finance and senior management in the delivery of the Budget and Finance Bill
- developing and implementing national and EU/International policy and legislation in relation to the financial services sector
- Supporting Government accounting (policy & standards etc), internal financial control, Management Information Systems
- assisting in preparation of financial models, valuation materials and risk research and analysis
- development and monitoring of execution of organisational strategy and divisional business plans.
Essential Requirements
Applicants for this position must, on or before the closing date of Tuesday 13th October 2026:
- (i) hold a first or second class primary honours degree (at Level 8 on the National
Framework of Qualifications) in Business, Finance, Economics, Accounting, Taxation
or another financial discipline.
- OR
- (ii) hold a first or second class primary honours degree in any discipline (at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications) and a first or second class higher diploma (at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications) in Business, Finance, Economics, Accounting, Taxation or another financial discipline.
- OR
- (iii) hold a Master’s degree or Post Graduate Diploma (at Level 9 or above on the
National Framework of Qualifications) in Business, Finance, Economics, Accounting,
Taxation or another financial discipline.
- OR
- (iv) be qualified as an Accountant or Tax Advisor and be a member of a recognised
body of accountants OR Tax Advisors, or be entitled to such membership (having
attained a standard in the final examination that is acceptable to publicjobs as
meeting the needs of the competition).
- AND
- (v) successfully demonstrate the required capabilities for this role. It is expected that from the outset, those newly recruited will be able to make a substantive contribution to the work of the Civil Service. While training is to a significant extent ‘on the job’, induction and training courses in specific skills and areas of work will be provided to assist you to become familiar with the public sector.
IMPORTANT: Please see Appendix 1 for more information on the Capability Framework and preparation guidelines.
Please note, to be eligible for this stream, you must have completed a significant number of modules in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Taxation or another financial discipline in your qualification i.e. at least an average of 50% of your course modules across your qualification(s).
NOTE: Qualifications/eligibility may not be confirmed until the final stage of the process, therefore, those candidates who do not possess the essential requirements, by Tuesday, 13th October 2026, and proceed with their application are putting themselves to unnecessary effort/expense and will not be offered a position from this competition.
Hear from our colleagues in the Department of Finance
Geraldine
International Finance Division
I am an Administrative Officer in the International Finance Division at the Department of Finance. My role is to represent Ireland’s operational and financial interests and priorities in multilateral development banks and ensure that governance and shareholding responsibilities are met.
I manage the relationships with the banks, other member states, departments and with external stakeholders. This can involve travelling overseas so flexibility is important. Generally my work varies greatly, is extremely interesting and no day is the same. My work tasks range from development project evaluation, policy analysis, formulation, and engaging with the other stakeholders at meetings and conferences.
I joined the Department of Finance in 2019, having upskilled and returned to the workforce after taking time out to focus on my family. I was attracted by the broad social, economic and political context of the work and importantly, as someone returning to the workforce, felt that the role offered me an opportunity to use my previous skills, abilities and experiences to make a meaningful contribution.
Read More About Geraldine
Maitiú
Banking Division
I have been working in the Banking Division of the Department of Finance since October 2023. Spending the past year and a half in Financial Consumer Protection policy I’ve worked on legislation, engaged with the Central Bank on the Consumer Protection Code and researched European consumer protection policy.
A typical day in the role varies, from drafting legislation, preparing briefings, writing speeches, researching policy and responding to Parliamentary Questions you have a wide range of tasks as an AO.
As a recent graduate with a background in Economics, the opportunity to apply my knowledge to public policy was the main incentive when applying for the role. I also knew that the Civil Service offered interesting and rewarding career opportunities.
I would definitely recommend a career in the public sector, your work is rewarding and interesting and you are surrounded by intelligent, engaged colleagues who create a collaborative and social workplace.
Read More About Maitiú
Zainab
Business and International Tax Division
I work in the Business and International Tax Division in the Department of Finance and my role is in the policy development area in relation to corporation tax.
I support the preparation of the Budget and Finance Bill process, particularly by assisting in the development of policies in the corporation tax area, on day-to-day basis, I prepare briefing material and handle freedom of Information request, conducting research in different policy area, and draft submissions to the Minister for Finance.
After relocating to Ireland, I continued to advance my knowledge by completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting and Finance. In my role as an AO in the Department of Finance, I have been able to strengthen my accounting and finance skills while actively working towards the ACCA qualification and am now just three exams away from becoming a fully qualified accountant.
Read More About Zainab
Cillian
Economic Division
I have been working as an Administrative Officer Economist in the Economic Division of the Department of Finance for 5 months. The main focus of my role is on the economic analysis of tax policy. This includes a focus on the role and evaluation of tax expenditures as well as assessing the impact of both domestic and international tax changes on the economy. The role involves the application of economic data and quantitative methodologies to inform fiscal policy.
After my time in college, I felt that a role in the Irish Government Economic & Evaluation Service (IGEES) would suit my strengths and interests in economics and current affairs.
I would recommend a career in the public sector. There is great opportunity for progression in your career and there is an ability to work in different departments or divisions within departments. The colleagues I work with were also very supportive when I started my new role.
My time in the department has been engaging and those I work with have been helpful in settling in and progressing in my role.
Read More About Cillian
Gemma
Sanctions Unit
I began working for the Department of Finance in September 2023. I am an administrative officer in the Sanctions Unit in the International Finance Division of the Department.
My role is to support the policy development relating to the implementation of sanctions domestically. I support the Minister in the performance of his functions at EU level by providing ongoing briefings. As well as feeding into negotiations on sanctions packages at EU level to ensure Irelands position is considered. Along with a variety of other tasks associated with the role.
I would recommend a career in the public sector. I have the opportunity to work on ongoing policy developments, which I find fulfilling. As well as this, there are an array of supports and training opportunities.
I would definitely recommend any recent graduates apply. I have been given countless opportunities for further development and have a high level of job satisfaction
Read More About Gemma
Administrative Officer
Building
Future Readiness
Digital Focus, Innovation
& Upskilling for the Future
Strategic Awareness &
Change
Leading &
Empowering
Leading, Motivating
& Developing
Leading with
Specialist Insight
Capability:
Behaviours
Skills
Strengths
Knowledge
Values
Motivation
Interests
Evidence
Informed Delivery
Delivering
Excellence
Analysis, Judgement
& Decision Making
Communicating
and Collaborating
Communicating
& Influencing
Engaging
& Collaborating
Building
Future
Readiness
Digital Focus, Innovation
& Upskilling for the Future
Leading
&
Empowering
Leading,
Motivating
& Developing
Strategic, Awareness
& Change
Leading with
Specialist Insight
Capability:
Behaviours
Skills
Strengths
Knowledge
Values
Motivation
Interests
Evidence
Informed
Delivery
Delivering Excellence
Analysis, Judgement
& Decision Making
Communicating
& Collaborating
Communicating
& Influencing
Engaging &
Collaborating
Building Future Readiness
Delivering excellent public policy and services requires us to embrace change and innovation. We strive to create an inclusive customer centric strategy and vision that keeps pace with environmental, social and technological changes. Adopting an agile and digital-first approach, we will continually upskill, change and improve how we do things to meet current and future demands.
Digital Focus, Innovation & Upskilling for the Future
Digital Focus
- Maximises the use of technology and digital solutions to drive efficiencies and support better service delivery
Innovation & Creative Solutions
- Delivers innovative ideas, creative solutions and useful suggestions, with a good understanding of the practicalities
- Tries new or different approaches, demonstrating the flexibility to learn from mistakes, adapt and improve
Upskilling for the Future
- Proactively seeks development opportunities, building on strengths and addressing weaknesses or gaps with a positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Committed to building knowledge and skills for the future
Key Skills Examples
- Innovation
- IT and digital skills
- Continuous learning
- Design thinking
- Process improvement
Strategic Awareness
& Change
Strategic Awareness & Future Focus
- Contributes to the development of policy, strategy and future planning for their area
- Understands where their works fits within the broader team and organisational and departmental strategy and sets goals that contribute to strategic objectives
Contextual Awareness
- Keeps up to date with wider Civil Service policies and developments relevant to their own area
- Considers the wider impact of policies and strategies, including who or what they affect
Facilitating Change
- Supports others through change, highlighting the benefits of change, innovation or new technology
- Identifies and makes recommendations for change based on their analysis, expertise and insights
Key Skills Examples
- Supporting change
- Strategic thinking
- Strategy implementation
- Goal setting
- Policy development
Evidence Informed Delivery
Delivering excellent public policy and services requires us to make evidence based and well-informed judgements and decisions, prioritise objectives and effectively manage resources, using relevant information to evaluate the delivered outcome to ensure maximum benefit for the people we serve.
Delivering Excellence
Managing Work Effectively
- Manages, plans and prioritises workload to ensure targets and deadlines are met
- Works in a systematic, organised and efficient manner, getting up to speed with new tasks at an appropriate pace
- Manages projects effectively, reporting on progress and challenges
Delivering Quality Outcomes & Service
- Sets high standards and goals and shows commitment to meeting these
- Has procedures in place to ensure work is of high quality
- Delivers excellent customer service and prioritises the customer experience
- Seeks feedback and evaluates delivery against required outcomes
Attitude, Initiative & Flexibility
- Demonstrates initiative and self-sufficiency in managing and progressing projects and work
- Maintains resilience and a 'can-do' attitude when working under pressure or constraints, seeking support when necessary
- Flexible and agile in the face of challenges or changing demands
Key Skills Examples
- Project management
- Customer service
- Risk management
- Goal setting
- Project evaluation
Analysis, Judgement & Decision Making
Research & Analysis
- Strong research skills, can gather and analyse data from a range of sources, to identify key information or core issues
- Utilises data appropriately to inform research, policy and decision making
- Analyses and evaluates complex verbal and numerical information in an accurate and timely manner
Problem Solving
- Solves problems in a logical manner, gathering relevant information and data, exploring different solutions and escalating issues where necessary
Informed Judgement & Decision Making
- Makes balanced judgements and decisions, drawing from evidence, experience and relevant policies and procedures.
- Makes appropriate and timely decisions, seeking support when required
- Exhibits good judgement in dealing with difficult, ambiguous situations and 'on-the-spot' issues
Key Skills Examples
- Research skills
- Data management & visualisation
- Data analytics
- Critical thinking
Leading and Empowering
Delivering excellent public policy and services requires us to lead in our areas of expertise, inspire others and create a clear vision. We are committed to developing, supporting, and empowering our colleagues to meet their potential and to creating a positive and inclusive work environment where everyone's contribution is valued.
Leading, Motivating & Developing
Leadership Capacity, Coaching & Developing
- Shows leadership capacity, through coaching, supporting and motivating others
- Has a good understanding of other’s strengths and makes an effort to utilise and develop these
- Provides feedback and/or supports performance management, where appropriate or with managerial support
Empowerment, Trust & Honesty
- Empowers and trusts their colleagues, delegates tasks where possible and values others’ input and opinions
- Helps create an inclusive, safe and open teamworking environment
- Works with integrity, honesty and accountability
Social & Emotional Awareness
- Prioritises wellbeing for self and others, showing consideration, empathy and support
- Demonstrates good self-awareness and ability to manage own emotions and behaviour, particularly in challenging situations
Key Skills Examples
- Performance management
- Coaching and feedback
- Conflict management
- Managing remote or blended teams
Leading with Specialist Insight
Specialist Expertise & Professional Development
- Demonstrates a high degree of specialist expertise and knowledge in their area
- Committed to continuous professional development, engaging in relevant courses, conferences and activities to keep knowledge up to date
Leading, Advocating & Knowledge Sharing
- Leads and advocates in their area of expertise, through openly sharing insights, knowledge, evidence and rationale
- Finds opportunities to share and transfer knowledge
- Capable of describing technical terms in an easily understandable manner
Working Independently & Autonomously
- Capable of working independently, as well as with their team and with other areas or functions
- Comfortable working autonomously, determining what work needs to be done and how to do it, with the ability to self-motivate
Key Skills Examples
- Specialist skills in own area of expertise
- Communication and influencing skills
- Research skills
Communicating and Collaborating
Delivering excellent public policy and services requires us to work together, build relationships and collaborate enabling a joined up, whole-of-Government approach. Effective engagement and communication with our customers, clients and colleagues will enhance and build trust in our services.
Communicating & Influencing
Communicating Effectively & Listening to Understand
- Communicates and presents in a clear, professional and engaging manner, across verbal, digital and written communications
- Shares the appropriate level of detail and presents relevant information and data in an accessible and understandable format
- Demonstrates understanding of own communication approach, developing their skills and adjusting style, as appropriate
- Prioritises diversity and makes an active effort to involve and listen to different people and perspectives
Influencing & Negotiation Skills
- Tactfully influences and persuades others and considers compromise when necessary
- Style of influencing, negotiating and managing conflict is appropriate and respectful at all times
- Approaches difficult discussions, questions or negotiations with consideration and sensitivity, seeking support where required
Key Skills Examples
- Written skills
- Presenting
- Active listening
- Influencing and negotiation skills
Engaging & Collaborating
Networking, Engaging & Consulting
- Builds useful networks, internally, externally and internationally
- Prioritises engaging and consulting with relevant stakeholders
Collaboration, Teamwork & Building Relationships
- Effectively collaborates within and outside of their team
- Utilises interpersonal skills to build positive and effective working relationships, even in a blended or hybrid environment
- Keeps their team, colleagues and manager appropriately informed, involved and updated
- Asks questions to understand the work happening across other areas and offers to support cross-functional projects where possible
Key Skills Examples
- Networking skills
- Collaboration
- Teamwork
- Interpersonal skills
Additional Information
For more information visit the Interview Advice page.
To download the Capability Framework (PDF or plaintext accessible version)
please click below: