Overview
Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club (SKGAA) one of Ireland's largest and most active GAA clubs with over 2,000 members, is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and forward-thinking General Manager to lead the operational and strategic management of the Club. This pivotal role ensures professional delivery of all administrative, financial, and developmental activities, while driving long-term growth, sustainability, and community engagement.
This is a full-time, permanent role based in Galway. The General Manager will report to the Club Officers and Executive Committee.
1. Leadership & Strategy
* Provide professional leadership and strategic direction across all aspects of Club operations.
* Implement and deliver the Club's Strategic Development Plan, driving measurable outcomes in membership, participation, and financial performance.
* Promote a culture of excellence, inclusion, and volunteerism consistent with GAA values.
* Provide regular operational updates and reports to the chairperson and executive committee to inform planning and decision making.
2. Operations & Service Delivery
* Oversee daily operations, ensuring smooth coordination between staff, coaches, and volunteers.
* Lead the professional day-to-day management of all club operations, ensuring effective coordination across facilities, administration, and member services.
* Oversee operational processes such as facilities scheduling, events, communications, and resource management to ensure efficient delivery of club activities.
* Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health & safety, and GAA regulations at all times.
* Manage facilities (Árus, Prairie, and rented pitches) to the highest standards of safety and presentation.
3. Finance & Governance
* Lead the preparation and management of the Club's annual budget, ensuring compliance with financial and governance standards.
4. Commercial, Revenue & Marketing
* Maximise revenue through sponsorship, fundraising, events, and commercial initiatives.
* Work collaboratively with officers and sub-committees to support key functions including sponsorship, fundraising, membership, and event delivery.
* Oversee communications, marketing, and digital engagement to strengthen the Club's profile and brand.
5. Community & Stakeholder Engagement
* Develop and maintain partnerships with schools, local authorities, and sporting bodies to grow participation and community engagement.
* Strengthen partnerships with local schools, community organisations, and sporting bodies to enhance the club's profile.
* Support the development of structured programmes that promote community engagement, volunteer involvement, and player wellbeing across all codes.
Key Performance Indicators
* Achievement of strategic and financial objectives as defined by the Executive Committee.
* Growth in membership and community participation levels.
* Delivery of governance and compliance standards across all operations.
* Improved Financial sustainability and diversification of income streams.
* Positive engagement and satisfaction among members, staff, and volunteers.
Requirements
* Minimum 5 years' experience working in a management role.
* At least 3-5 years' experience working in the GAA or similar sporting organisation (voluntary or professional capacity).
* A relevant third-level qualification (minimum Level 7).
* Exceptional leadership and organisational skills with the ability to foster and implement effective change.
* Proven experience in establishing and delivering strategic plans that generate measurable results.
* Ability to develop and implement progressive marketing and commercial strategies.
* Strong people management skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships and manage conflict.
* Experience in effective financial planning, management, and reporting, ensuring compliance with financial and legal governance standards.
* Excellent administrative and IT skills, including use of digital and membership systems.
* Outstanding communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
* Ability to work in high pressure situations, including flexibility to work evenings and weekends.
* Access to transport to fulfil all duties and responsibilities of the role.
Desirable
* Postgraduate qualification in Sports Management, Business Administration, or related field.
* Experience managing capital development or large-scale facility projects.
* Proven success in sponsorship recruitment, grant applications, and fundraising initiatives.
* Experience implementing governance and compliance frameworks within a sporting or community organisation.
* Knowledge of volunteer development and retention strategies.
* Understanding of best practices in digital marketing and stakeholder communications.