At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive grassroots football growth and support volunteer development across Kent.
- Company: Kent County Football Association, a forward-thinking organisation.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to inclusion and safeguarding in football.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming adult male football and empowering volunteers.
- Qualifications: Experience in sports development and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Kent FA are seeking a football development officer (adult male & volunteering) to play a pivotal role in driving the growth and sustainability of grassroots football across the county.
Our Organisation
The Kent FA prides itself in being an innovative and forward‑thinking organisation and these are exciting times as we seek to meet and exceed the ambitions in the Kent FA Play Protect Promote Strategy.
The Role
- Vacancy Type: Full time, fixed term until 30th June 2028
- Hours per week: 35 hours per week. The Kent FA operates a hybrid working arrangement of two days per week in the office and three days working from home. This may change due to business needs.
The role will lead improving playing choice and opportunity for adult male football, ensuring formats and provision enables new players of all ages to enter the game whilst retaining existing players. From expanding alternative provisions such as walking football, veterans football and futsal, to mapping local demand and identifying gaps in provision, the focus is on turning insight into action and delivering tangible growth across the county. Alongside this, the role will drive the recruitment, development, retention and reward of volunteers across clubs and leagues. Collaboration will be key, working closely with stakeholders recognising volunteers as the backbone of the grassroots game and critical to the long‑term success of both The FA Grassroots Football Strategy and the Kent FA Play Protect Promote Strategy.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop the Adult Male Growth and Retention Plan to ensure a diverse offering enabling adult males of all ages to participate in the game.
- Increase male recreational football participation via various programmes by engaging a wide range of programmes, stakeholders and targeting a variety of groups based on local demand.
- Provide or facilitate the development of other formats of football (e.g. veterans 55+, walking football and futsal) that reflect changing participant behaviour and expectations.
- Support the development and delivery of the volunteering action plan for the county liaising with clubs, leagues and County FA colleagues to help recruit, retain, develop and reward volunteers.
- Deliver a programme of services to club and league volunteers, with an emphasis on gaining more England Football Accredited clubs and leagues.
- Deliver volunteer support workshops to increase and develop those volunteering within clubs.
- Ensure that adult male football and volunteering is inclusive, diverse and reflective of local communities.
- Contribute to ensuring that safeguarding and equality are embedded throughout the Kent FA and grassroots football.
Kent FA is looking for a proactive and organised individual with experience in sports development, strong project management skills, and the ability to influence and build relationships across the game. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a key development area, deliver meaningful outcomes, and make a lasting impact on grassroots football in Kent.
Safeguarding
Kent FA is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk. Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check through The FA DBS process. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and the information provided.
Equality and Diversity
Kent FA promotes inclusion and diversity and welcomes applications from everyone, and we encourage applicants to complete our Equality & Diversity Monitoring Form. If you have any requirements in relation to the recruitment or interview process, please include details on the application form. The closing date for receipt of applications is 11:59pm on Sunday 7th June 2026 with interviews taking place on Monday 29th June 2026. Applications received after the deadline will only be considered in exceptional circumstances. Receipt of applications will not be acknowledged.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact Jeff Davis, Head of Football Development on Jeff.Davis@KentFA.com.
Football Development Officer (Adult Male & Volunteers) Kent County Football Association (Kent FA) employer: Kick it Out
The Kent County Football Association is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth of grassroots football in Kent. With a commitment to employee development, the organisation offers unique opportunities for professional growth through innovative programmes and collaboration with local communities. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, ensuring a healthy work-life balance while making a meaningful impact on the sport and its volunteers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Football Development Officer (Adult Male & Volunteers) Kent County Football Association (Kent FA)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the football community. Attend local matches, volunteer events, or coaching clinics. The more faces you know, the better your chances of landing that Football Development Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for grassroots football! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas on how to improve adult male participation and volunteer engagement. Let them see your enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the Kent FA's Play Protect Promote Strategy. Understand their goals and think about how your skills can help achieve them. This will show you're not just interested in the job, but also in the organisation's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Kent FA team and contributing to the growth of grassroots football.
We think you need these skills to ace Football Development Officer (Adult Male & Volunteers) Kent County Football Association (Kent FA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Football:When writing your application, let your love for football shine through! Share your experiences and how they connect to the role. We want to see your enthusiasm for grassroots football and how you can contribute to its growth.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Football Development Officer role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the heart of what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kick it Out
✨Know Your Football Development
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of the Football Development Officer role. Familiarise yourself with grassroots football initiatives, especially those related to adult male participation and volunteer recruitment. This will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of past projects where you've successfully managed initiatives or programmes. Highlight how you’ve influenced stakeholders and built relationships, as these skills are crucial for driving growth in grassroots football.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
The Kent FA values inclusion and diversity, so be ready to discuss how you would ensure that adult male football is accessible to all. Share ideas on how to engage different community groups and promote various formats of football, like walking football or veterans' leagues.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Kent FA's strategies and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation aligns with your values and career goals.
