Job Title: Club & League Development Lead
Location: FAI HQ, Abbottstown & Regionally
Direct Reporting Line: Head of Club & League Development
Commencement Date: TBC
Duration: Permanent / Full Time
Work Model: Hybrid
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 Club & League Development Lead plays a vital role in supporting and advancing grassroots football within each region. This role is responsible for guiding clubs and leagues toward long-term sustainability and growth by driving FAI Club and League Mark, working with Heads of Football to deliver action plans and supporting national programmes.
Key Responsibilities
Club & League Support
* Lead strategic engagement with grassroots clubs and leagues in the region to support development, sustainability and compliance.
* Promote and assist with FAI Club and League Mark accreditation programmes, supporting organisations to meet national standards.
Capacity Building & Education
* Deliver and coordinate local and regional development workshops, forums and training events for club and league officials.
* Support clubs and leagues in succession planning, volunteer development and building inclusive leadership.
* Share best practices, toolkits and resources to strengthen grassroots infrastructure.
Participation, Pathways & Performance
* Support Heads of Football in Clubs and Leagues.
* Work with clubs and leagues to provide more football opportunities for all groups.
* Support initiatives that grow participation while embedding equality, diversity and inclusion principles.
* Support delivery of regional FAI activities as required.
Person Specification
* Strong understanding of grassroots football structures, including club committees and league operations.
* Knowledge of governance principles, including constitutions, policies, safeguarding standards and best practice guidelines.
* Experience delivering development support to clubs, leagues or community sport organisations.
* Ability to facilitate meetings and workshops, providing clear guidance on governance, compliance and club development planning.
* Competence in planning and monitoring club or league development frameworks.
* Strong administrative and organisational skills with attention to detail.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
* Experience in football development, preferably with clubs or leagues.
* Strong understanding of grassroots football operations and governance structures.
* In dept knowledge of FAI Club and League Mark accreditation.
* Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities and drive delivery plans.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to influence and build trust.
* Ability to implement national strategies to increase, support and retain volunteers.
* Experience influencing policy and managing multiple stakeholders.
* Time and resource management.
* Conflict resolution and problem-solving.
Desirable:
* Experience of 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
* Relationship & Stakeholder Management
* Inclusive Communication Skills & Influence
* Digital Literacy
* 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
We are proud of the range of benefits we can provide:
* 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 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).