Ireland’s public sector is getting a fresh boost through the Public Service Transformation initiative, with new secondment opportunities now open for staff across a wide range of state bodies and service areas. Announced on gov.ie by the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, the programme is aimed at bringing experienced public servants into a central reform team working on better, more connected public services.
The recruitment drive invites expressions of interest for assignments within the Public Service Transformation Division. Roles are available for Higher Executive Officer (HEO) and Administrative Officer (AO) grades, as well as a Communications Specialist at HEO level or equivalent. The secondment term will run for two years.
Public Service Transformation secondment programme announced on gov.ie
The Public Service Transformation programme is designed to support the Government’s Better Public Services strategy, which focuses on more inclusive, higher-quality and integrated service delivery. According to gov.ie, successful applicants will join an interdisciplinary team helping to shape how people interact with the Irish state.
This creates a practical opportunity for staff working in bodies linked to the Revenue Commissioners, Health Service Executive (HSE), An Garda Síochána, Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), National Transport Authority (NTA) and other public institutions to contribute directly to national reform efforts.
Officials say the initiative is intended to draw on expertise from across the public service so that transformation policies are informed by frontline and sector-specific experience.
Who can apply
The Public Service Transformation secondment is open to applicants from all major parts of the Irish public service, including:
- Health
- Education
- Defence
- Justice and policing
- Local Government
- Civil Service and non-commercial State agencies
This broad sectoral approach means the programme may attract interest from organisations connected to Social Protection, Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Education, Climate Action and Transport.
Why the Public Service Transformation programme matters
The central goal of Public Service Transformation is to improve how public services are designed and delivered. By bringing in secondees from different sectors, the division can build a stronger understanding of where systems work well and where citizens face friction.
For participants, the benefits go beyond a temporary role change. The programme offers:
- Hands-on experience in public sector reform
- Collaboration across departments and agencies
- Professional development in a future-focused policy environment
- Stronger networks across government and state bodies
This is particularly relevant at a time when digitalisation, cross-agency coordination and service accessibility are growing priorities across gov.ie departments and agencies, from Health and Justice to Finance and Local Government services.
Application deadline and key details
The secondment will last for two years, and participants will support Ireland’s long-term vision for modern, joined-up public services. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 30 July.
Interested candidates should review the official role booklets published on gov.ie for the HEO/AO positions and the Communications Specialist role. These documents outline responsibilities, eligibility and the application process.
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What this means for Ireland’s public sector
The Public Service Transformation programme reflects a wider push to modernise public administration and improve outcomes for communities across Ireland. Drawing staff from frontline and policy backgrounds can help ensure reform is practical, informed and better aligned with real public needs.
For professionals across the public service, this is a rare chance to take part in work that can influence how services are delivered nationwide. As highlighted on gov.ie, the programme is about putting diverse expertise to work in support of better public services for everyone.
In short, the Public Service Transformation secondment is more than a staffing initiative—it is a strategic move to strengthen collaboration, innovation and delivery across the Irish state. Public servants interested in shaping the future of service delivery should take a close look before the deadline passes.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
