Job Title: International Lead CoachLocation: FAI HQ, Abbottstown, DublinDirect Reporting Line: Technical DirectorCommencement Date: TBC Duration: Specified Purpose Contract / Full-TimeWork Model: Hybrid IntroductionThe 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 International Lead Coach is responsible for leading the technical and tactical development of players and coaches across multiple international age phases, ensuring consistent standards, playing style, and identity aligned with the FAI's coaching and playing principles. The role is designed to keep coaches deeply connected to the full player pathway, with responsibility for leading more than one team and strengthening alignment between international, club, regional, and national development environments. The post-holder plays a critical role in driving player progression, staff development, and coaching excellence throughout the pathway. The role will work within a pool of international lead coaches and international coaches. Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership Lead the planning, preparation, and performance of connected international teams. Design and deliver game-centred training sessions incorporating tactical periodisation, unit and individual principles, and set-piece detail. Ensure the match strategy is aligned across the staff team, supporting collaborative decisions on squad selection, game plans, in-game adjustments, and opposition analysis. Contribute to the performance-review process through video, data, and match-analysis insights. Ensure Individual Development Plans (IDPs) are created, implemented, and regularly reviewed for pathway players and stored on central location for all technical staff to review. Player Development Support the design and delivery of national and regional player development programmes to ensure alignment across the pathway. Maintain strong alignment between club, regional, and international environments to ensure continuity of learning. Work closely with International Coaches, Player & Game Leads, Talent ID, and Performance Support on holistic player development. Promote high standards of behaviour, professionalism, wellbeing, and care. Coach Development Support International Coaches and staff across the age-phase environment. Contribute to national coach development through CPD delivery and best-practice sharing. Promote reflective coaching practice and collaborative planning across the coaching workforce. Model player-first, game-centred, identity-driven coaching behaviours. Collaboration & Alignment Work collaboratively with Performance Support, Talent ID, and Coach Development staff to integrate all aspects of player development and performance. Ensure strong connection and alignment with regional Player & Game Leads to link regional programmes with the international pathway. Attend all technical / international department review meetings in person. Support the operational planning and delivery of international camps, matches, and tournaments. Represent the FAI professionally at domestic and international fixtures, meetings, and events. Safeguarding & WelfareEnsure all international activity aligns with FAI safeguarding, wellbeing, and duty-of-care standards. Promote a safe, inclusive, and player-centred environment on and off the pitch. Person SpecificationDemonstrates professionalism, humility, and a growth mindset. Curious, reflective, and committed to continuous learning. Embraces the FAI's coaching identity, playing principles, and player development vision. Champions a positive, inclusive, high-performance culture. Experience and QualificationsEssential:UEFA Pro Licence (or currently working towards it).Experience (typically 3+ years) coaching elite youth or senior players in international, professional academy, or equivalent high-performance environments.Strong tactical and technical understanding consistent with identity-driven coaching and long-term player development principles.Experience operating within a multidisciplinary performance environment (e.g., performance analysis, sports science, Talent ID ,strength & conditioning, medical services, physiotherapy, psychology, nutrition).Demonstrated expertise in session design, match preparation, Talent ID and performance reviews.Desirable:Experience delivering CPD or contributing to coach development. Knowledge of Irish football structures and development pathways. Experience working across regional or national talent development programmes. Skills & Professional KnowledgeTactical and technical coaching expertiseIdentity-driven session design and training periodisationPlayer development planning (IDPs)Match analysis and performance reviewStakeholder and cross-department collaborationLeadership and staff developmentCompetenciesCore 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 promote Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I).