Coach Development Lead - Digital

Job Title:                                        Coach Development Lead - Digital

Location:                                         FAI HQ, Abbottstown, Dublin

Direct Reporting Line:                   Coach Development Manager

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 – Digital is responsible for the management, development and continuous improvement of the FAI Learning Platform. The role will lead digital learning initiatives, enhance the learner experience, oversee platform administration and content, and drive innovation in how learning is delivered, accessed and supported across FAI Coach Development programmes.

Key Responsibilities

Learning Platform Management

• Lead the day-to-day management and administration of the FAI Learning Platform.


• Manage user accounts, enrolments, certifications, permissions and system settings.


• Act as the primary contact for platform queries and learner support.


• Work with platform providers to resolve issues and enhance functionality.


• Ensure the platform remains accessible, user-friendly and aligned to organisational needs.
  
  

Digital Learning & Learner Experience

• Coordinate the creation, publication and maintenance of digital learning content.


• Support the delivery of online, virtual and blended learning programmes.


• Continuously improve the user experience through learner feedback, engagement data and best practice in digital learning.
  

Innovation & Platform Development

• Drive the ongoing evolution of the FAI Learning Platform through new features, tools and learning solutions.


• Identify opportunities to improve platform functionality, learner engagement and accessibility.


• Research and implement emerging technologies and innovative approaches to digital learning.


• Support the development of online communities, collaborative learning opportunities and learner engagement initiatives.
  
  

Data & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor learner engagement, completion rates and platform performance.


• Produce reports and insights to support decision-making and programme development.


• Gather and analyse user feedback to identify opportunities for improvement.


• Support quality assurance processes and continuous enhancement of the learning experience.
  
  

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.


• Experience creating role-based learning programmes within regulated environments is highly desirable.


• Work with internal and external stakeholders.


• Engage with international federations to benchmark best practice in digital coach development.


• Build partnerships with educational institutions and learning technology providers.
  
  

Person Specification

Experience and Qualifications

Essential:

• Qualification in instructional design, digital learning development, or learning technologies


• Experience managing projects and working collaboratively.


• Demonstrated expertise in digital content creation, including e-learning modules, video learning resources, webinars and virtual workshops, interactive learning content.


• Evidence of ongoing professional development in digital learning, coaching, or educational technology.


• Full clean driving licence.

Desirable:

• Project management or change-management certification.


• Experience leading digital transformation projects.

Skills & Professional Knowledge

• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and coach education methodologies.


• Strong stakeholder engagement experience across internal teams and external partners.


• Experience designing and delivering blended learning programmes combining online and face-to-face learning.


• Learner centered and is reflective, adaptable, and committed to continuous improvement.


• Innovative and open to new approaches and technologies in coach education.


• Champions equality, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Core Competencies-Aligned with Cultural Values (Progress/Passion/Togetherness)

Innovation & Continuous Improvement (Progress)

Thinks creatively and with an open mind to identify new opportunities for growth and improvement. Embraces change positively and contribute to building a better future for Irish football.

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.

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.

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.

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 Friday 10th July 2026.

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).