Coach Development Lead

Job Title:                                         Coach Development Lead

Location:                                         FAI HQ, Abbottstown & Regionally

Direct Reporting Line:             National Lead Coach Development

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 Coach Development Lead is responsible for advancing the growth and quality of football coaching across Ireland. The role focuses on enhancing learning pathways, developing coaching expertise, and supporting coaches through formal FAI programmes and informal learning environments such as mentoring and communities of practice.

Working collaboratively across the FAI and the wider football network, this role ensures that Irish coaches have access to modern, inclusive, and high-quality development opportunities aligned with the FAI’s Football Pathways Plan and Coach Development Framework.

Key Responsibilities

Programme Development

• Support the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of the FAI’s Education & Development strategy.


• Align all coach development activities with the FAI strategy, UEFA Coaching Convention, and Sport Ireland Coaching Framework.


• Support the development of a coherent learning pathway for coaches from grassroots to elite level.


• Promote a culture of lifelong learning, reflection, and innovation in coaching.

Delivery

• Plan and lead the delivery of formal FAI Coach Development courses (e.g., Me & My, Grassroots Coach programmes).


• Integrate modern coaching and learning methodologies including blended learning and experiential approaches.


• Provide ongoing CPD and development support for qualified coaches.


• Ensure the creation of inclusive, participant-centred, high-quality learning environments.


• Support delivery of regional FAI activities as required.

Coach Developer & Mentor Support

• Lead, train, and support the national network of FAI Club Mark Heads of Football.


• Build communities of practice that promote collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and reflective practice.


• Facilitate mentoring and informal support for coaches in grassroots, academy, and other environments.

Quality Assurance & Impact

• Implement robust quality assurance processes for all development and education programmes.


• Evaluate programme impact using data, feedback, and performance indicators.


• Ensure compliance with UEFA and Sport Ireland standards and maintain all required records and reporting.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with regional FAI staff, Clubs, and Leagues to identify and address local coach development needs.


• Build strong external relationships with international partners, educational institutions, and other key bodies.


• Represent the FAI at national and international forums related to coach education and development

Person Specification

• Passionate advocate for coach development and lifelong learning.


• Reflective, empathetic, and coach-centered in approach.


• Innovative, adaptable, and committed to high standards.


• Strong leadership, facilitation, and organisational capability.


• Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion within football.

Experience and Qualifications

Essential:

• UEFA A Licence (or currently enrolled in the course).


• Significant coaching and/or coach development experience.


• Strong understanding of the UEFA Coaching Convention and FAI Coach Education framework.


• Track record in designing, delivering, and evaluating coach development programmes.


• Experience mentoring or supporting coaches in formal and informal settings.


• Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-management skills.


• Strong administrative skills and familiarity with relevant IT systems.


• Experience managing projects and working collaboratively.


• Experience delivering learner-centred, reality-based coaching environments.

Desirable:

• UEFA Elite Youth A Licence or UEFA Pro Licence (or currently enrolled in the course).


• QQI Coach Developer Level 7 (or equivalent).


• Experience as a Coach Developer, Tutor, or Mentor in a recognised association.


• Knowledge of the Irish football development system.


• Experience delivering blended or digital learning.

Skills & Professional Knowledge

• Coach development and adult learning methodologies


• Programme design and evaluation


• Mentoring and facilitation


• Stakeholder engagement


• Knowledge of football development structures


• Strong administrative and organisational skills


• Leadership & people management


• Communication & collaboration


• Strategic thinking & problem solving


• Quality & standards focus

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).