Manager – Study Abroad

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic professional to join EIL/AFS Ireland’s energetic team. This role will manage our Study Abroad Department.

ABOUT EIL/AFS IRELAND

EIL/AFS Ireland is an Irish non-profit educational organisation based in Cork. Our mission is to provide intercultural learning experiences that enrich lives and inspire global citizenship among people of all ages and backgrounds.
We deliver a wide range of programmes, including Study Abroad, Volunteer Abroad, Language Learning, Global Citizenship Education, Explore Scholarships, and Cultural Group Programmes. As an educational charity, we are committed to inclusion, equality, environmental sustainability, and global peace.

Learn more about who we are and what we do About EIL/AFS Ireland here.

ROLE PURPOSE 

The postholder is responsible for the strategic development, effective delivery, and sustainable growth of EIL/AFS Ireland’s Study Abroad programmes. The role ensures high-quality, safe, and impactful intercultural learning experiences for both inbound and outbound participants by providing strong leadership to programme teams and volunteer networks, maintaining compliance with safeguarding and quality standards, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Balancing strategic oversight with hands-on operational management, the postholder drives programme innovation, strengthens partnerships, and enhances participant experience while supporting the organisation’s mission and long-term objectives.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead, support, and develop a team of Programme Coordinators and the Local Coordinators.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.
  • Act as a point of escalation for operational, safeguarding, and participant welfare issues.
  • Oversee the full lifecycle of all programmes, including recruitment, placement, orientation, and ongoing support.
  • Maintain strong relationships with host families, schools, and local coordinators. Ensure high programme quality and continuously improve participant experience.
  • Drive the growth and development of both inbound and outbound programme offerings.
  • Lead the expansion and management of outbound programmes for Irish students.
  • Support marketing strategies and participant recruitment initiatives.
  • Implement effective enquiry management and conversion processes.
  • Build synergies with scholarship and partner programmes (e.g. Explore Scholarships)
  • Oversee risk assessment, crisis management, and participant safety procedures
  • Contribute to strategy, innovation, and adoption of best practices in intercultural education.
  • Monitor international trends and best practice in intercultural education and student mobility.
  • Manage programme budgets, pricing, and financial sustainability.
  • Ensure financial targets are met and programmes operate sustainably.
  • Work collaboratively across departments to achieve organisational objectives.
  • Provide regular reporting to the Head of Programmes and Senior Management Team

 

QUALIFICATIONS

Essential:

  • A third-level qualification (Level 7 or higher) in Education, International Studies, Business or related field.

Desirable: 

  • Master’s degree in Management, Education, or Intercultural Studies.
  • Training in safeguarding, risk management, or programme management
  • Experience living, studying, or working abroad.


SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

  • Proven leadership experience managing teams in a programme, education, or youth-focused environment.
  • Strong organisational and management skills, with the ability to manage multiple programmes simultaneously.
  • Experience in international education, student exchange, or related sectors.
  • Excellent relationship management and negotiation skills with diverse stakeholders (partners, schools, families)
  • Strong understanding of safeguarding and risk management practices
  • Excellent communication and reporting skills.
  • A collaborative, solutions-focused, and adaptable approach.
  • Sharp management of finances in the department.

BENEFITS

  • Full-time role with a hybrid working model.
  • Salary: €45,000 – €48,600 depending on experience.
  • Benefits include pension contribution, 22 days annual leave, flexible working options, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), company phone and growth opportunities.

 

APPLICATION DETAILS

Application Deadline: Midday, Friday, 8th May 2026

How to Apply: Please email your CV and a cover letter (outlining your interest in the role, relevant skills, and experience) to [email protected]

Applicants will be shortlisted based on the information provided. Interviews will take place in person at: Classic House, 11–13 Washington Street, Cork, T12 NHP1.

EIL/AFS Ireland is an equal opportunity employer.