Job Title: Facilities Development Manager
Location: FAI HQ, Abbottstown & Regionally
Direct Reporting Line: Director of Facilities, Infrastructure & Technology
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 Facilities Development Manager is responsible for leading the planning, development, and delivery of football facilities across Ireland, supporting clubs, communities, and partners to improve infrastructure aligned with the FAI's national facilities strategy. This role exists to drive high-quality, sustainable facility development, strengthen the grassroots environment, and support the long-term ambition to provide world-class, accessible football spaces nationwide.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the development and implementation of national and regional football facilities plans, supporting the strategic objectives of the FAI.
* Manage end-to-end facility development projects, including planning, feasibility, design, funding, procurement, construction, and handover.
* Work closely with clubs, leagues, local authorities, Sport Ireland, government departments, and partners to support facility planning and investment pathways.
* Provide technical guidance and advisory support to clubs and stakeholders on facility design, funding applications, standards, specifications, and operational requirements.
* Support the development of the FAI Facility Investment Strategy, including prioritisation frameworks, project pipelines, and funding recommendations.
* Support Club Licensing requirements by assessing, advising, and monitoring facility standards for League of Ireland and other licensed competitions.
* Lead and coordinate grant and funding applications for football facility developments, including government sports capital programmes, local authority schemes, Sport Ireland funds, and other investment opportunities.
* Oversee compliance with facility design guidelines, accessibility requirements, safeguarding standards, and environmental sustainability principles.
* Support the operation and future development of the FAI Facility Audit System, ensuring data accuracy and strategic insight.
* Prepare business cases, feasibility studies, briefing papers, and presentations to support decision-making by the Executive Leadership Team and Board.
* Coordinate with internal departments—including Grassroots, League of Ireland, High Performance, and Refereeing—to ensure facility needs are fully integrated.
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, government agencies, architects, engineers, and funding bodies.
* Support the development, enhancement, and long-term planning of the FAI National Training Facility, including management of third-party contractors for pitch construction, maintenance, and operational services.
* Manage project reporting, risk identification, and progress updates across multiple facility development streams.
* Promote innovation, sustainability, and inclusive design in all facilities projects.
Person Specification
* A highly organised, technically informed professional with a strong understanding of sport, infrastructure, and community development.
* Excellent communicator with the ability to build strong partnerships across diverse stakeholder groups.
* Problem-solver with a proactive and collaborative mindset.
* Demonstrates passion for improving football environments and supporting communities nationwide.
* Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
* Experience in facilities development, infrastructure planning, project management, or capital works delivery.
* Experience managing capital or construction projects from concept to completion.
* Strong knowledge of planning processes, design standards, procurement, and project governance.
* Experience working with local authorities, government agencies, or community-based organisations.
* Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
Desirable:
* Experience in sport facility development or community infrastructure projects.
* Professional qualification in project management, construction, architecture, engineering, or related field.
* Understanding of sustainability best practices and inclusive design.
* Experience preparing funding applications or business cases for capital investment programmes.
Skills & Professional Knowledge
* Strong project management and organisational skills.
* Knowledge of facility design principles, technical standards, and capital project processes.
* Ability to analyse data, develop insights, and produce high-quality reports.
* Financial planning and budget management capability.
* Relationship-building and partnership development skills.
* Understanding of planning, procurement, and regulatory compliance frameworks.
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).