Introduction
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is the national governing body for football in Ireland, driving the growth, promotion, and development of the game at all levels.
We are passionate about inspiring participation, supporting talent, and celebrating the power of football to unite communities across the country.
With a proud history and an ambitious vision for the future, the FAI is committed to fostering excellence on and off the pitch, ensuring the game is inclusive, accessible, and a source of national pride.
Purpose of the Role
The FFA Club Development Lead will support, grow and lead disability football provision within grassroots clubs nationwide.
This role ensures disability teams and programmes are embedded sustainably within existing club structures.
The postholder will work collaboratively with regional staff, clubs, partners and stakeholders to strengthen club capability, improve accessibility and drive participation aligned with the Association's Disability Strategy.
Key Responsibilities
Club Support & Capacity Building
Offer direct support to clubs to help them establish, grow, or enhance disability football teams and programmes.
Develop resources, toolkits and training to build club capability and understanding of disability inclusion.
Facilitate peer learning networks and best practice sharing among clubs.
Partnership & Stakeholder Management
Work with disability charities, community organisations and education partners to strengthen collaboration.
Maintain strong relationships with player pathways, coaching networks and safeguarding leads.
Support delivery of regional FAI activities as required.
Quality Assurance & Safeguarding
Ensure clubs meet appropriate safeguarding, welfare, and accessibility standards.
Support the development of inclusive coaching and volunteer training programmes.
Monitor compliance with policies related to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
Track participation data, club engagement and programme impact.
Produce national reports, insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
Person Specification
Deeply committed to inclusion with a genuine passion for creating and supporting opportunities to play, coach and volunteer for all involved in disability football.
Collaborative and relationship focused, able to build trust with clubs, players, coaches and volunteers.
Respectful and person centred, always placing the lived experience of disabled players and also volunteers at the heart of decision making.
Positive advocate for disability football and confidently challenging barriers.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
Proven experience in sports development, community sport, or club support roles.
Experience working with disability sport programmes or inclusive community initiatives.
Strong understanding of grassroots football structures and club operations.
Demonstrated experience managing projects, developing resources, or leading national/large-scale initiatives.
Experience working with multiple stakeholders such as governing bodies, community organisations, and education partners.
Knowledge of safeguarding, equality legislation, and inclusive best practice in sport.
Desirable:
Experience public speaking or presenting at meetings/events.
Comfortable with reporting tools, tracking KPIs, and gathering feedback.
Competence in Microsoft Office.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Skills & Professional Knowledge
Inclusive Communication Skills & Influence
Relationship Management
Development and mentoring
Collaboration & Teamwork
Accountability & Professional Excellence
Competencies
Core Competencies
1. Innovation & Continuous Improvement (Progress)
Thinks creatively and with an open mind to identify new opportunities for growth and improvement.
Embraces change positively and contributes to building a better future for Irish football.
2. Drive & Commitment (Passion)
Demonstrates energy, enthusiasm, and pride in everything they do.
Takes initiative, delivers results, and strives to make a meaningful impact on the game and the organisation.
3. Collaboration & Teamwork (Togetherness)
Works effectively and respectfully with others to achieve shared goals.
Supports, challenges, and motivates colleagues to perform at their best, recognising that success is achieved together.
4. Communication & Influence (Togetherness / Passion)
Communicates clearly, openly, and respectfully with colleagues and stakeholders.
Builds positive relationships, inspires trust, and represents the FAI with professionalism and integrity.
5. Accountability & Professional Excellence (Progress / Passion)
Takes ownership of performance and upholds high standards in all tasks.
Acts responsibly, follows through on commitments, and contributes to the FAI's vision of continuous progress and excellence.
Our Benefits
Two premium level tickets to each home international game
Sick pay scheme and family friendly leave
Opportunities to work at international matches
Company pension
Life assurance
Bike to work scheme
Free onsite parking
Employee assistance programs
Hybrid working arrangements and flexible hours working arrangements
Discounted access to the National Aquatic Centre and gym complex
Application Details
Closing date for receipt of applications is close of business on 17th December ****.
Shortlisting and interviewing process will take place thereafter.
The Football Association of Ireland is an equal opportunities employer and promotes Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I).
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