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- Tasks: Lead the Irish FA Board, ensuring high standards of governance and strategic oversight.
- Company: Join a pivotal organisation in Northern Ireland's football landscape.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with expenses reimbursed; make a real impact in your community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of football and promote inclusivity in sport.
- Qualifications: Proven board leadership experience and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Unique opportunity to influence one of Northern Ireland's key sporting institutions.
This is an important moment for football in Northern Ireland. The Irish FA has strong momentum, with continued investment in facilities, improved governance, and growing participation across the game. Progress in women's and girls' football, the development of national academies, and the new National Football Centre at Galgorm reflect a clear focus on long-term sustainability and impact.
As part of a planned succession process, the Irish FA is now seeking to appoint a Chair. The Chair provides clear leadership to the Board, setting high standards of governance, integrity, inclusion and financial stewardship. Working closely with Board members and the Chief Executive, the Chair ensures effective oversight, constructive challenge and that strategy is translated into clear, deliverable priorities.
Externally, the Chair represents the Irish FA with credibility, building strong relationships across football, government, commercial partners and wider civic society. We are seeking an experienced and respected Board leader with excellent chairing skills and a strong track record at board level within a large, complex, multi-stakeholder organisation. You will bring strategic insight, sound judgement and independence of thought, alongside a pragmatic approach to governance.
Strong communication skills, the ability to build consensus, manage challenge and guide long-term strategy are essential, as is a belief in the positive role sport can play in communities. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of Northern Ireland's most important sporting and civic institutions and to help shape the future direction of football across the region.
This Chair appointment is voluntary, with expenses reimbursed in line with Irish FA policy. To apply, please follow the link to Clarendon Executive Website for further details. Applications should include a CV and a concise supporting statement. Please quote reference 26002 in all correspondence. Closing date: 5pm Monday, 2 February 2026.
The Irish FA is an equal opportunity organisation and values diversity across all areas of its governance and operations.
Chair Irish Football Association in Belfast employer: Clarendon Executive
Contact Detail:
Clarendon Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair Irish Football Association in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the football community and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Personal connections can often lead to insider info about roles that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local football events or initiatives. This not only shows your commitment to the sport but also helps you meet key players in the industry. Plus, it’s a great way to demonstrate your leadership skills in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your governance knowledge and current trends in football. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the Irish FA's mission and vision. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but the right candidate!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Make sure your CV and supporting statement highlight your experience and passion for football and community engagement.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair Irish Football Association in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role of Chair at the Irish FA. Familiarise yourself with their current initiatives and challenges. This will help you tailor your application to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should highlight your board-level experience and chairing skills. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easy to read. Don’t forget to include specific examples of your achievements that demonstrate your strategic insight and governance expertise.
Write a Strong Supporting Statement: This is your chance to shine! Keep it concise but impactful. Explain why you’re passionate about football in Northern Ireland and how you can contribute to the Irish FA’s vision. Make sure to address the key qualities they’re looking for, like leadership and communication skills.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through the Clarendon Executive Website as mentioned in the job description. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Remember to quote reference 26002 in all correspondence!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clarendon Executive
✨Know Your Football Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current state of football in Northern Ireland, especially the Irish FA's recent initiatives. Understanding the momentum behind women's and girls' football, as well as the development of national academies, will show your commitment and insight into the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous board leadership roles and how you've set high standards of governance. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to provide oversight, challenge constructively, and translate strategy into actionable priorities.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing how you would build consensus among diverse stakeholders. Think about how you can convey your vision for the future of football in a way that resonates with various audiences.
✨Emphasise Your Community Focus
The Irish FA values the positive impact of sport on communities. Be prepared to share your views on how football can contribute to societal well-being and inclusion. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully engaged with community initiatives or fostered inclusivity in sports.
