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
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.
At ESB, we believe in a Brighter Future...
We believe that electricity is an enabler of societal and economic well-being and that every citizen should have access to secure, sustainable and affordable electricity supplies.
Since our establishment in 1927, we have worked to bring light and energy to the people of Ireland, allowing individuals and communities to fulfil their potential in whatever walk of life they are in.
Today, we continue to drive progress and change, constantly innovating and evolving to stay relevant and reliable for the many people who depend on us.
For us, it's not about short term gains. We are driven by a desire to put in place solutions today that will leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
We are harnessing all our resources for a brighter future, investing in our people and working collaboratively with partners to enhance the lives of our customers, drive economic progress and bring about a more sustainable future.
We strive to be a safety leader in our industry, a world-class operator, a good corporate citizen and an employer of a smart, committed and healthy workforce.
We strive to be a safety leader in our industry, a world-class operator, a good corporate citizen and an employer of a smart, committed and healthy workforce.
To join our team, visit esb.ie/careers/esb-careers
