At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams to deliver elections and maintain the electoral register.
- Company: Join the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland, safeguarding democracy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible working.
- Other info: Modern office in Belfast with training opportunities across the UK and Ireland.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vital role for democracy.
- Qualifications: Experienced managers with strong leadership and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We’re Recruiting: Deputy Principal Manager (3 posts)
The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland (EONI) is seeking senior leaders to help maintain the electoral register and deliver well-run elections. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in safeguarding democracy in Northern Ireland.
We are seeking to appoint:
Deputy Principal Manager (3 Posts)
- Electoral Services Manager (Operations) – leading electoral registration, absent vote and polling station processes.
- Logistics Manager – leading election logistics and finance.
- Planning & Communication Manager – leading election planning, communications and candidate nomination processes.
- Salary: £47,304 – £49,515 per annum
About EONI
EONI is an independent, non-partisan body supporting the Chief Electoral Officer to deliver elections and maintain the electoral register. We scale rapidly to deliver elections involving 6,000 temporary staff, 1,400 ballot boxes, 600 polling places and multiple count venues.
What we’re looking for
We want experienced managers who can:
- Lead teams and deliver complex projects at pace.
- Work confidently with senior stakeholders in politically sensitive environments.
- Analyse legislation and apply it in practice.
- Build strong relationships across government, councils, political parties and the public.
- Use digital tools to manage information, analyse data and communicate effectively.
Essential criteria and competencies are set out in the Candidate Information Pack.
Location, Benefits & Development
- Based in our new modern offices at Colby House, Belfast (with car parking and cycling facilities).
- 25 days annual leave + 12 public/privilege holidays (rising with service).
- NI Civil Service Pension Scheme membership.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Training and development opportunities, including observing elections across the UK and Ireland.
How to Apply Visit our website via clicking APPLY and download the:
- Candidate Information Pack
- Application Form
Closing date: 12 noon, Friday 26 September 2025.
For more information, contact: Grainne.McCarthy@eoni.org.uk
EONI is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Applications are welcomed from all sections of the community.
Deputy Principal Manager (3 posts) in Belfast employer: The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland
The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland (EONI) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the democratic process in a supportive and dynamic environment. With modern offices in Belfast, EONI provides generous benefits including 25 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and flexible working arrangements, all while fostering professional growth through training and development opportunities. Join us to lead impactful projects and build meaningful relationships across various sectors, ensuring that every election runs smoothly and fairly.
Contact Detail:
The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Principal Manager (3 posts) in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the electoral services field or related sectors. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching EONI's recent projects and challenges. Show us you’re not just interested in the job, but that you understand the impact of your role on democracy in Northern Ireland.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear how you've led teams and managed complex projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the EONI team.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Principal Manager (3 posts) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with what EONI is looking for, so make sure you highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the role.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage complex projects, just like they’re asking for.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Make sure your key achievements stand out and are easy to spot!
Check Your Spelling and Grammar:Before hitting send, give your application a thorough proofread. Typos and grammatical errors can distract from your qualifications. We want to see your best work, so take the time to polish it up!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Deputy Principal Manager role. Familiarise yourself with the specific areas like electoral registration, logistics, or planning and communication. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior leader, you'll need to highlight your ability to lead teams and manage complex projects. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or delivered a project under pressure. This will illustrate your capability to handle the demands of the role.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Given the politically sensitive nature of the role, it's crucial to be aware of the current electoral landscape in Northern Ireland. Brush up on recent legislation and any relevant political issues. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're engaged and informed.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
You'll be working with various stakeholders, so think about how you can build strong relationships across different sectors. Prepare to discuss your strategies for effective communication and collaboration. This will demonstrate your ability to navigate complex environments and foster cooperation.