Description

The HR Governance Specialist will contribute to the design and operation of the governance structure, strengthening control standards, improving evidence and assurance discipline, and integrating Engineering & Major Projects HR governance activities into the ESB enterprise-wide GRC framework and the ESB Second Line HR Governance Model. As a key member of the business unit HR Team, the HR Governance Specialist will report directly to the EMP HR Manager and will work closely with the HR Governance, Compliance & Risk Manager, People & Sustainability to manage the governance, assurance and risk framework for Engineering & Major Projects (EMP). This will include leading the 2nd line assurance cycle, including quarterly reviews, thematic reviews, evidence sampling, control effectiveness assessments and follow-up of actions. They will constructively challenge 1st Line owners on control operation, evidence quality, issue management, timeliness and closure of remediation actions. The role holder is responsible for best practice HR policy compliance, formulation and delivery for the business. They are also accountable for managing the production of local HR metrics and support the business resource plan delivery.  The position requires exercising good judgement, cross-functional collaboration and technical depth in governance, risk, control design, assurance and HR operating practices Key Responsibilities • In collaboration with first line owners, provide compliance assurance to EMP HRM/SMT and P&S Governance Manager by designing and implementing the governance framework to monitor: • key HR processes such as SRP implementation, movers, joiners, leavers etc. • project assignments, secondments, mobility, international HR matters, etc. • Produce concise KPI/KRI reporting on control health, exceptions, assurance coverage and remediation status. • Identify trends, recurring exceptions and systemic weaknesses, escalating material issues through agreed governance channels. • Simplify, standardise and strengthen HR governance processes while maintaining appropriate control rigour. Co-ordinate and continuously improve the HR audit/local control programme, including corrective actions with EMP SMT, HR and line management. GIA point of contact for HR related audits • Optimise and streamline key HR and governance processes, using AI and digital tools • Identify, scope and implement projects to improve business governance risk and compliance performance Skills Knowledge & Experience Essential • Minimum of 5 years relevant experience • Ability to work cross functionally with colleagues on a variety of projects • Background in HR and knowledge of HR practice, policies and procedures • Proven leadership, relationship management and influencing skills • Able to demonstrate an understanding of related Legislation and procedures • Previous experience in reporting, compliance & monitoring progress against policies, procedures and key performance indicators is an advantage. • Strong knowledge of HR & Analytics Systems e.g Copilot, MyHR, Excel, Power Bi etc Location This position will be based in ESB Engineering & Major Projects office, The Sidings Building, Dublin 2. ESB is committed to smart working – combining digital tools with a culture of trust and empowerment to enable flexible ways of working. The successful candidate may work flexibly within their jurisdiction with attendance at the workplace for in-person collaboration on at least two days per week. All smart working arrangements are subject to manager approval and ongoing review, based on the operational requirements of the role, the team, and the individual. Reporting To Human Resources Manager, Engineering & Major Projects Why Work with Us? • Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future • Career development through mentoring and training • Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities • Sports and Social Clubs • Networking opportunities • Credit Union • Generous Pension • Access to staff well-being programmes • Generous parental leave entitlements • Strong values-based and inclusive culture • Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion • Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted Salary €59,000 - €70,000 Per annum Closing Date 14th July 2026 Interview Candidates who are shortlisted for interview will complete a Behavioural Interview based on each of the following Behaviours, which underpin how we work at ESB and are critical to delivering our strategy: • Accountable and Ethical • Collaborative • Growing and Adaptive • Proactive • Respectful and Supportive More information available on Our People Promise Notes Your application will be held in reserve for 6 months should you be suitable for the role. The successful candidate will be required to evidence their right to work in the Republic of Ireland / UK prior to commencement of employment.