Coach Development Lead

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.
  

• 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.

• Passionate advocate for coach development and lifelong learning.
• Reflective, empathetic, and coach-centred in approach.
• Innovative, adaptable, and committed to high standards.
• Strong leadership, facilitation, and organisational capability.
• Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion within football.

• 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

Essential:

• UEFA B Licence.
• 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 A Licence
• 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