Job Title: Head of Club & League Development
Location: FAI HQ, Abbottstown & Regionally
Direct Reporting Line: Director of Football
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 Head of Club & League Development will provide national leadership for strengthening grassroots football clubs, leagues and governance structures. The post-holder will lead the strategic delivery of key national programmes including Club Mark, League Mark and Heads of Football, while overseeing a team of Club & League Development Leads operating nationwide.
This role is responsible for enhancing club and league operations, supporting sustainable structures, improving governance and ensuring consistent development standards across all regions.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Lead national strategy areas for club and league development, ensuring alignment with the Football Pathways Plan.
* Oversee the design, delivery and continuous improvement of national programmes supporting club operations, league governance, workforce development and participation experiences.
* Provide expert input to help shape long term grassroots football priorities.
Team & Stakeholder Management
* Line-manage and support a nationwide team of Club & League Development Leads.
* Drive a high performance culture, ensuring staff receive appropriate support, development and guidance.
* Build strong relationships with affiliates, national bodies, leagues and grassroots clubs.
Programme Delivery
* Lead the national rollout and quality assurance of:
* Club Mark
* League Mark
* Heads of Football
Additional responsibilities include
* Monitoring programme performance using data insights to support continuous improvement.
* Ensuring consistent implementation across regions.
* Developing resources, best practice guidance and support tools for clubs and leagues.
Governance & Compliance
* Support the National Governance Lead in strengthening governance standards across clubs and leagues.
* Promote best practice in safeguarding, volunteer support, financial standards, and operational resilience.
* Help embed robust, compliant and sustainable structures in grassroots organisations.
Monitoring, Impact & Reporting
* Establish KPIs and reporting processes to track impact and programme effectiveness.
* Produce regular progress reports, identifying achievements, risks and opportunities for enhanced delivery.
* Ensure consistency, quality and accountability across national grassroots development initiatives.
Person Specification
* Strategic thinker with a collaborative approach.
* Excellent communicator and relationship builder.
* Motivated leader with a passion for supporting clubs, leagues, volunteers and the wider football community.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
* Third level qualification in sports management or related field or minimum of 5 years experience in grassroots football, sports development or a related environment.
* Proven leadership and people management experience ideally with dispersed or regional teams.
* Strong understanding of club and league governance, development models and operational challenges.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Strong organisational, planning and project management abilities.
* Ability to analyze data and apply insights to improve programme delivery.
* Collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence and motivate others.
Desirable:
* Certificate in Football Management or equivalent
* Experience developing national programmes, frameworks or large scale development initiatives.
* Knowledge of football administration and volunteer led environments.
* Experience with digital tools and platforms supporting club or league operations.
Skills & Professional Knowledge
* Leadership & Management
* Project & Programme Management
* Governance & Compliance
* Digital Literacy
* Collaboration & Teamwork
* Communication & Influence
* 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).