Job Title: Chief Operating Officer
Reports to:
Chief Executive Officer
Contract Type:
Full-time
Location:
Primarily based at Tolka Park and AUL
Salary:
Competitive – in line with Sports / Live events industry
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Purpose of the Role
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will play a pivotal role in delivering Shelbourne Football Club's strategic vision by leading the club's operational, facilities, and community functions. Reporting to the CEO, the COO will ensure the club operates efficiently, safely, and sustainably, enhancing the experience for players, staff, supporters, and the wider community.
This is a hands-on leadership position that combines strategic oversight with operational excellence—driving best practice across matchday delivery, infrastructure management, fan experience, and community engagement, in line with the club's ambition for growth and long-term success.
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Key Responsibilities
1. Operational Leadership
* Lead and oversee all day-to-day operations across the club, ensuring smooth and efficient delivery of services and events.
* Oversee matchday operations at Tolka Park and away venues, liaising with key stakeholders including Gardaí, SLO, security providers, volunteers, and event controllers.
* Plan, coordinate, and deliver non-football events, ensuring operational excellence and alignment with the club's commercial and community objectives.
2. Facilities and Infrastructure
* Manage all club facilities, including Tolka Park, the AUL Complex, and any future training or stadium developments.
* Oversee contractor and staff relationships across mechanical, electrical, cleaning, waste, and grounds functions.
* Ensure all infrastructure meets safety, certification, and regulatory standards (fire, electrical, accessibility, etc.).
* Maintain and enhance the quality of playing surfaces and training environments, ensuring year-round performance and compliance.
3. Food & Beverage
* Oversee all food and beverage operations across Tolka Park and AUL, ensuring high-quality service, profitability, and consistency.
* Lead the management of F&B staff and vendors, optimizing offerings to enhance fan and visitor experience.
4. Health, Safety & Compliance
* Ensure full compliance with health and safety legislation and OHSAS standards.
* Develop, implement, and maintain robust operating procedures for both matchday and non-matchday environments.
* Work closely with the Licensing Officer to ensure adherence to FAI, UEFA, and League of Ireland regulations and standards.
5. Sustainability and Environmental Management
* Champion the club's sustainability strategy, driving initiatives that reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
* Oversee energy, water, waste, and chemical management, implementing systems for responsible usage and reporting.
6. Community and Engagement
* Lead the ideation and delivery of the club's community strategy, strengthening Shelbourne FC's presence and impact within local communities.
* Manage community staff and volunteers, fostering strong relationships with residents, schools, businesses, and affiliate clubs.
* Promote and grow the Shelbourne FC brand as a positive force for inclusion, participation, and local development.
7. Governance and Organisational Development
* Ensure governance, compliance, and operational frameworks are robust and transparent.
* Collaborate with the CEO and Board to embed efficient systems, reporting, and accountability across departments.
* Foster a high-performance culture built on collaboration, professionalism, and respect.
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Qualifications and Experience
* Proven experience in a senior operational, commercial, or executive leadership role, ideally within sport or live events.
* Strong financial and business acumen, with a track record of managing budgets and delivering cost efficiencies.
* Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and develop teams.
* Demonstrated success in managing complex operations across multiple departments or locations.
* Knowledge of the Irish football landscape and regulatory environment is advantageous.
* Degree in Business, Sports Management, or a related field preferred.
* A proactive, hands-on leader who balances strategic vision with delivery excellence.
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Additional Information
* The role requires flexibility, with regular evening and weekend work around matchdays and events.
* Shelbourne FC is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and the communities we serve.
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Summary
This role offers a unique opportunity for an experienced, driven, and community-minded leader to play a central role in shaping Shelbourne FC's next chapter—ensuring operational excellence and long-term sustainability, both on and off the pitch.
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To Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
* A detailed CV outlining relevant experience and achievements.
* A short cover letter (maximum one page) highlighting your interest in the role and how your skills align with Shelbourne FC's ambitions.
Applications should be sent by email to
with the subject line
"Chief Operating Officer Application – [Your Name]"
.
The closing date for applications is
Monday 17
th
November
. Early applications are encouraged, as interviews may take place on a rolling basis.