FA Council Member Representing Football Communities

FA Council Member Representing Football Communities

Our Organisation

The Football Association (The FA) is the not-for-profit governing body of football in England, dedicated to promoting the sport and inspiring positive change through the game. We are responsible for developing and advancing football at every level, from grassroots to the professional game, generating revenue to support investment in English football.

The FA oversees all England international teams, including men\’s, women\’s, youth, and para football. We manage FA competitions such as the Emirates FA Cup, the FA Youth Cup, and the Adobe Women\’s FA Cup. Additionally, we oversee men\’s and women\’s leagues below the professional level. Our remit includes the world-class facilities of Wembley Stadium and St. George\’s Park.

The Role

The FA is seeking to appoint a new Football Communities Representative onto The FA Council, with a specific remit to represent women\’s football, ideally from the perspective of someone who participates and understands the game at the grassroots level.

Skills, Knowledge and Experience

You should be under 65 and be able to demonstrate:

• An understanding of the history of women\’s football, through its evolution and transformation to the modern day.
• Knowledge of the challenges facing the future development of the women\’s game at the grassroots level; an understanding of the whole development cycle through to the semi-professional and professional levels would be a strong advantage.
• Current or previous experience in the women\’s game, for example you may be a current or former player, coach, manager, match or club official or have held a league or administrative development role.

In addition, the following attributes are desirable across the membership of The FA Council:

• The ability to clearly articulate the views of those that you represent;
• To contribute on all aspects of football, not exclusively the area you represent;
• The ability to speak, present and network in an ambassadorial role;
• The ability to mix with diverse groups of people in a wide variety of situations;
• The ability to build and maintain productive working relationships with others (including fellow Council Members, FA Staff and colleagues from across the football family);
• The ability to scrutinise and challenge in a positive and constructive manner;
• A willingness to act in the best interests of The FA without regard to personal interest or benefit.

This position will be appointed by our People & Culture Committee.

We are continually seeking to ensure that The FA Council better reflects the inclusive and diverse nature of English football and this appointment will contribute to that goal. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from individuals with protected characteristics which are currently under-represented within The FA Council.

The FA Council is part of The FA\’s governance structure with the objective to future proof the game in England.

As a Council Member, you will be required:

• To debate issues at Council meetings, using your skills, knowledge and experience from within the game, whilst acting in the best interests of The FA;
• To act in an ambassadorial role at local, regional, national and international events and in accordance with The FA\’s Code of Conduct;
• To serve on committees or working groups within The FA which reflect your skills, knowledge and experience within the game;
• To participate constructively in and positively promote the good governance of The FA; and
• To contribute to debate and the decision-making process in order to further develop the game.

Time Commitment

Council Members should be available to attend each of the 4 scheduled Council meetings per annum. Meetings are usually on a weekday, commencing at 11.00am. 2 meeting are held at Wembley Stadium, 1 meeting at St. George\’s Park and the other through Microsoft Teams.

You may also be appointed onto one or more committees where we feel that your knowledge and experience can make a positive contribution. Committee meetings are held at differing intervals but are usually on a weekday at Wembley Stadium, either in person or through Microsoft Teams.

Council Members can claim allowances and expenses for meetings they attend. Additionally, they will be invited to FA and England matches played at Wembley Stadium.

Council Members can serve for a maximum of 3 terms of 3 years.

How to Apply

Please apply with a CV and covering letter detailing the qualities and attributes you would bring to contribute to The FA Council. Applications close on 3rd August 2025.

If you require any further information on The FA Council and this role please contact Richard McDermott, Company Secretary.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates will take place during mid-August and early September. The appointed candidates will join The FA Council during the 2025-2026 season.

The Football Association promotes equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from everyone who meets the criteria. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please detail this in your online application and covering letter.

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