Job Title: Referee Development Lead
Location: FAI HQ, Abbottstown & Regionally
Direct Reporting Line: National Amateur Referee Development Lead
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 Referee Development Lead plays a key operational and development role within the FAI's national referee structure. Reporting to the National Lead – Amateur Referee Development, the postholder will support the delivery of the FAI Football Pathways Plan and the Referee Education Strategy by leading referee recruitment, training, mentoring, and progression within their designated region.
The role strengthens the amateur and grassroots referee workforce, delivers high-quality education programmes, and ensures consistent, inclusive, and development-focused pathways from entry level through to advanced amateur and potential national-league officiating.
Key Responsibilities
Pathway Delivery & Referee Progression
* Implement the national referee development pathway at regional level in line with the FAI Football Pathways Plan.
* Manage progression from Introductory → Grassroots → Amateur Levels, ensuring consistency and transparency.
* Identify high-potential referees for advanced development and support transitions towards Underage National Leagues, Women's Premier Division, and League of Ireland pathways.
* Maintain regional standards of performance, fitness, and LOTG competency in alignment with FAI and UEFA frameworks.
* Support the National Lead in tracking annual progression criteria and regional performance trends.
Training, Education & CPD Delivery
* Deliver referee education programmes including:
* Entry-level referee courses
* LOTG updates
* Regional workshops
* Annual CPD modules
* Ensure all training reflects FAI Education Strategy principles: inclusion, blended learning, consistency, and accessibility.
* Support the operation of Provincial Referee Schools of Excellence and the National Referee Tutor Network.
* Keep all materials aligned to the latest IFAB, UEFA, and FAI updates.
Coaching, Mentoring & Match Observation
* Coordinate a network of regional referee coaches, mentors, and observers.
* Assign coaching/observation support based on individual development needs.
* Conduct match observations and provide structured, developmental feedback.
* Promote a supportive coaching culture focused on growth, self-reflection, effective communication, and game management skills.
* Ensure quality assurance of feedback and development plans across the region.
* Recruitment & Retention
* Lead local recruitment initiatives across schools, clubs, colleges, and community partners.
* Support retention initiatives by fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive referee environment.
* Promote refereeing as a pathway for players, coaches, and volunteers transitioning within the game.
* Support campaigns that align with the FAI's broader participation and inclusion objectives.
Operational Support & Stakeholder Management
* Act as the primary regional contact for:
* Provincial Associations
* Referee Societies
* Local leagues (schoolboy/girl, junior, intermediate, women's amateur)
* Work with leagues to ensure appropriate referee coverage and appointments.
* Provide guidance on matchday behaviour standards and referee–club relations.
* Liaise with the League of Ireland referee development structure to ensure alignment across amateur and elite pathways.
* Referee Welfare, Safeguarding & Conduct
* Promote positive matchday environments and uphold the FAI Referee Welfare Policy.
* Provide support to referees experiencing abuse, welfare concerns, or performance challenges.
* Ensure compliance with safeguarding requirements and FAI Codes of Conduct.
* Encourage a culture of respect, professionalism, and wellbeing.
Monitoring, Reporting & Continuous Improvement
* Track regional data on:
* Referee participation
* Drop-off and retention
* CPD attendance
* Match coverage
* Performance & progression
* Provide monthly and quarterly updates to the National Lead.
* Use data insights to inform regional development planning.
* Contribute to national initiatives such as digital learning, resource development, and pathway clarity enhancements.
Person Specification
* Experience as an active referee at grassroots, amateur, or intermediate level in Ireland.
* Experience in referee development, coaching, mentoring, tutoring, or observing.
* Understanding of FAI referee pathways, provincial structures, and domestic competition formats.
* Demonstrated engagement with referee societies, leagues, or provincial associations.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
* FAI Referee Qualification (minimum: grassroots/amateur level).
* Referee coach/mentor/tutor or assessor accreditation (FAI or UEFA – desirable).
* Safeguarding qualification (mandatory prior to commencement).
* Full clean driving licence (extensive regional travel required).
* Passion for improving and modernising Irish refereeing.
* High standards of personal integrity and professionalism.
* Resilience and composure in challenging matchday or development situations.
* Collaborative, open, and solution-focused approach.
* Growth mindset and willingness to adopt new technologies and development methods.
Desirable:
* Experience delivering referee education or CPD programmes.
* Experience in talent development, performance review, or referee assessment systems.
* Leadership experience in a football or educational context.
Skills & Professional Knowledge
* Strong leadership, people development, and interpersonal skills.
* Excellent communication (written, verbal, presentation).
* Analytical mindset with ability to interpret performance and retention data.
* Organisational strength, efficient planning, and strong administrative capability.
* Ability to build and maintain constructive relationships with referees, clubs, leagues, and partners.
* Supportive, approachable coaching style that promotes confidence and continuous improvement.
* Commitment to inclusion, diversity, integrity, and referee welfare.
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).