Someone who directs an organisation or community orientated non-profit business which is focused on finding and implementing solutions to problems faced by specific communities or by society at large.
Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Social Entrepreneur- from: Youtube Search
Working Life
In many ways a Social Entrepreneur would establish and manage their business in the same manner as any other Entrepreneur.
They would be involved in financing, in managing accounts, is hiring and directing staff and in the design and creation of products or services.
The key difference is that Social Entrepreneurs are not establishing a profit focused enterprise, instead they are creating a non-profit enterprise with an social goal.
Further Information
- Social Entrepreneur- from: What is social entrepreneurship?
Qualities - Social Entrepreneur
Social entrepreneurs will need to be committed self-starters, willing to work long hours in service of establishing the enterprise.
They will often be dedicated to a specific cause.
The range of skills required in setting up an enterprise are broad, and while some will have competency in all of them many of them will rely on colleagues to provide expertise in the fields, they are weak in.
As such it is essential that an entrepreneur be a people person, able to hire competent, trustworthy subordinates to manage areas and delegate reasonability to.
Interests - Social Entrepreneur
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry / Progression - Social Entrepreneur
There are varying requirements to set up and operate or work in a social enterprise. Social Entrepreneurs may have a qualification in business, commerce, accounting, or key core skills to match their proposed social enterprise.
Is social enterprise an option for you? Check out CareersPortal Enterprise support section.
Some experience of working in functioning businesses may be helpful. Many Social Entrepreneurs will have specific technical skills that relate to the focus of their company, whether it be in topics such as community, care, education, among others. But many social entrepreneurs are simply highly capable generalists with a talent for management, learning and delegating, possessing a passion to make a difference in their Community Social Enterprise Ireland Set up Toolkit.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: start your own business, supervisory management.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: start your own business, supervisory management.
Search for PLC Courses
Partnership Local Enterprise Support
Pay & Salary - Social Entrepreneur
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €30k - €55k
Salaries vary depending on employer grant, location, experience, and duties.
Data Source(s):
Social Entreprenuers Ireland / Charitycareersrecruitment
Last Updated: March, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Social Entrepreneur
Useful Contacts - Social Entrepreneur
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Enterprise Ireland
- The Plaza, East Point Business Park, Dublin 3
- (01) 727 2000
- Click Here
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Social Enterprise network Ireland
- Bea Orpen Building, NorDubCo, DCU, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland
- 0892550289
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Social Entrepreneurs Ireland
- Lower Ground Floor,11/12 Warrington Place, Dublin 2, Ireland
- 01-6853191
- [email protected]
- Click Here
