Chief Executive Officer in Downpatrick

4C Executive have partnered with Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority (NIFHA) as the organisation seeks to appoint their next CEO. NIFHA is responsible for managing and developing the three main fishery harbours in Northern Ireland: Kilkeel, Ardglass, and Portavogie. The organisation works closely with stakeholders including fishermen, local communities, DAERA, and environmental agencies to deliver safe, sustainable, and well-managed harbours.

In recent years, NIFHA has focused strongly on infrastructure investment, environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, and economic diversification to support the long-term future of the harbours and fishing industry. NIFHA's core responsibilities include maintaining harbour infrastructure, dredging navigation channels and berths, managing harbour estates, and ensuring safe and efficient harbour operations. The Authority plays a key role in supporting Northern Ireland's fishing and seafood industries, while also contributing to the sustainability of coastal communities and the wider blue economy.

After leading the organisation for over 13 years, NIFHA's current CEO will be stepping down later this year and the organisation is keen to appoint a new leader who will be responsible for managing NIFHA's administrative and financial functions as well as ensuring the operating business of the Authority is sustainable, cost effective, safe and efficient. The post holder will be a hands-on leader, someone who will have successful experience engaging with and managing a diverse range of stakeholders.

In addition, the successful candidate will have significant senior leadership experience and a successful track record at senior management level including:

• Operational and administrative management experience.
• Development and implementation of strategic and business planning.
• Extensive experience of budgeting, financial, cost control and P&L responsibility.
• Demonstrable experience managing diverse stakeholders.
• Working within a robust corporate governance environment coupled with demonstrable experience of effectively managing risk.
• Full driver license and access to transportation to fulfil the job duties. If a disability prevents driving, access to a suitable form of transport to enable the duties of the post to be carried out in full is also acceptable.
• Educated to degree level. Desirable Degree should be in a discipline directly relevant to the Authority's business (such as Engineering, Business, Accountancy, or a related field).
• Operational management experience to include Health and Safety and environmental regulation compliance.
• Project and facilities management experience.
• Experience of identifying and implementing opportunities for commercial growth and revenue diversification.

This is a great opportunity to join an organisation playing a key role in the economic development of Northern Ireland and help the Authority to write its next chapter of growth, development and innovation. If you believe you have the skills and experience required for this role and that you can positively contribute to this environment we welcome your application below.