Job Title: National Disability LeadLocation: FAI HQ, Abbottstown & RegionallyDirect Reporting Line: Head of GrassrootsCommencement Date: TBC Duration: Permanent / Full TimeWork Model: HybridIntroductionThe 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 RoleThe National Disability Lead is responsible for driving the development, inclusion and expansion of disability football across Ireland. The role ensures football is accessible to players of all abilities by working collaboratively with clubs, leagues, schools and community organisations. This position leads the national strategy for disability football, improves participation pathways and supports coaches, officials and volunteers in delivering high quality inclusive programmes. The National Disability Lead will also design and deliver staff training to embed disability inclusion across the Association.Key ResponsibilitiesLine ManagementManage and support the FFA Club Development Lead.Promote a high performing, inclusive culture and ensure alignment with national disability football objectives.Disability Football Strategy & DevelopmentDevelop and deliver the national disability football strategy, aligned to the FAI's strategic direction and Football Pathways Plan.Identify and remove barriers to participation for disabled players.Work with affiliates, leagues and clubs to build structured disability football pathways.Ensure disability football is integrated across the wider football landscape.Participation Growth & Programme DevelopmentLead nationwide participation initiatives for disability football.Support the creation and delivery of inclusive football programmes.Work with external partners to increase opportunities for participants at all ability levels.Development & International Support clubs and leagues in becoming more inclusive and creating sustainable disability football opportunities.Provide clubs have with relevant training, resources and guidance.Develop clear player pathways from grassroots to high performance disability football.Work with internal departments to ensure supports for international activity are in place.Stakeholder Engagement & PartnershipsSupport affiliates bodies to ensure the provision of participation opportunities are in place from grassroots to international.Build relationships with government bodies, sponsors and community organisations to secure funding and support.Represent the FAI at national disability football events, conferences, and inclusion initiatives.Engage with funding agencies to drive investment into disability football.Training & Workforce DevelopmentWork with the Coach Development team to integrate disability specific content into development programmes.Provide mentoring and resources to coaches and match officials.Design and deliver disability inclusivity training for FAI staff.Policy, Safeguarding & ComplianceEnsure all disability football initiatives comply with safeguarding, equality, and accessibility standards.Advocate for best practice and policy improvements across the game.Data Analysis & Impact MeasurementMonitor participation data and track programme outcomes.Produce reports and insights to inform ongoing strategy and decision making.Person SpecificationStrategic and visionary with the ability to see the big picture for disability football and translate national priorities into clear achievable actions across all levels of the game.Passionate champion for inclusion, consistently advocating for environments that are respectful, accessible and supportive for disabled players, coaches and volunteers.Empowering leader, confident in upskilling, mentoring and supporting staff to embed inclusive practices across their work.Collaborative relationship builder, adept at forming strong partnerships with clubs, national bodies, disability organisations and communities.Experience and QualificationsEssential:Experience in disability sports development, football administration and inclusion programmes.Strong knowledge of disability rights, accessibility standards and safeguarding requirements.Understanding of disability football and grassroots structures.Ability to develop and implement national inclusion strategies.Experience managing stakeholders across multiple regions.Strong organisational, resource management and problem solving skills.Line management and/or leadership experience.Desirable:Experience public speaking or presenting.Experience with reporting tools, KPIs and data tracking.Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Skills & Professional KnowledgeDisability Sport KnowledgeStrategy & Programme DevelopmentPolicy & ComplianceCommunication & InfluenceRelationship Management Collaboration & Teamwork Accountability & Professional Excellence CompetenciesCore Competencies1. 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 BenefitsWe are proud of the range of benefits we can provide:Two premium level tickets to each home international gameSick pay scheme and family friendly leaveOpportunities to work at international matchesCompany pensionLife assuranceBike to work schemeFree onsite parkingEmployee assistance programsHybrid working arrangements and flexible hours working arrangementsDiscounted access to the National Aquatic Centre and gym complexApplication DetailsClosing date for receipt of applications is close of business on 17th December 2025.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).