At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and shape the future of Sussex FA with strategic influence.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation at a pivotal moment in its growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, personal development budgets, and free Nike staff uniform.
- Other info: Commitment to equality and support for candidates with disabilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in grassroots and professional football while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for sports management.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 42000 £ per year.
Sussex FA are seeking to appoint an exceptional senior leader as our first Head of Operations. This is a significant strategic hire that will shape the future of our organisation, joining us at an exciting point of growth and ambition. The role has been created as part of our planned restructure, moving from eight departments to two, and marks the establishment of a formal Senior Leadership Team.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Operations will hold strategic accountability across all operational functions, including digital systems, governance, financial management, people and culture, and stakeholder experience. The successful applicant will report directly to the Chief Executive and will act as a trusted senior leader within the organisation. The postholder will directly line-manage the Facility Manager, Marketing & Communications Manager, Finance Manager and Safeguarding Manager.
Sussex FA is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk, and anyone working with us will be required to follow our safeguarding policies. Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced 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 information provided.
What can we offer?
- An exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking, progressive organisation at a pivotal moment
- A senior leadership role with genuine strategic influence and direct impact on the future direction of Sussex FA
- A chance to work with key stakeholders across the grassroots and professional game
- A commitment to empowered and supportive personal development
- A Workplace Pension Scheme
- A Personal Accident policy
- Additional leave after 5 and 10 years’ service
- Flexible working hours
- Long Service Awards for 10, 15 and 20 years’ service
- Health Scheme
- Multi-Faith Prayer Room available
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to FA Cup Final and England tickets at Wembley
- Additional time off over Christmas, wellbeing leave and birthday holiday
- Personal Development Budgets
- Free Nike Staff Uniform every year
The role is full-time, permanent, based at the GoCardless Stadium, Culver Road, Lancing. Flexible working arrangements can be considered. The salary range for the position is £38,000 to £42,000. The position offers 20 days leave per annum (plus public holidays, birthday and additional Christmas leave) and is subject to a 3-month probationary period.
If you would like to apply, please send your completed application to Jodi.Hall@SussexFA.com.
Closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 8th June 2026, with interviews week commencing Monday 22nd June 2026.
Disability Confident Sussex FA prides ourselves on being an employer committed to supporting candidates with disabilities throughout our recruitment and selection process. We have a dedicated team to support any employee with a disability. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Equality Statement Sussex FA believes that football belongs to, and should be enjoyed by, anyone who wants to participate in it. We are committed to promoting equality within the business in every aspect of its work, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and experiences to apply for this role, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnership.
If any questions arise about the role or clarity is required on the recruitment pack, please contact our Chief Executive Officer, Tom Lyons: Tom Lyons T: 01903 753547 E: Thomas.Lyons@SussexFA.com
Sussex FA - Head of Operations in Lancing employer: The FA
Sussex FA is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation at a pivotal moment in its growth. With a commitment to personal development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture, employees can expect to make a genuine impact while enjoying benefits such as additional leave, health schemes, and access to prestigious events like the FA Cup Final. Located at the GoCardless Stadium in Lancing, this role provides a chance to shape the future of grassroots and professional football in the region.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sussex FA - Head of Operations in Lancing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Sussex FA. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research Sussex FA's recent projects and their strategic goals. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed teams and projects in the past. Highlighting your experience will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the Head of Operations role.
✨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 keen on being part of our community at Sussex FA.
We think you need these skills to ace Sussex FA - Head of Operations in Lancing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Operations role. Highlight your strategic leadership experience and how it can shape the future of Sussex FA.
Showcase Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for grassroots and professional football! Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to the sport and how you can contribute to our mission.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your ideas and avoid jargon that might confuse us. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at The FA
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Sussex FA's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their strategic goals will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their vision for the Head of Operations role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples that highlight your leadership skills, especially in managing teams and driving operational efficiency. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated change and fostered a positive culture in previous roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach stakeholder engagement in this role. Prepare to discuss your strategies for building relationships across various levels, from grassroots to professional football, and how you can enhance the stakeholder experience.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Inquire about the future direction of Sussex FA, the challenges they foresee in the restructuring process, and how the Head of Operations can contribute to overcoming them.
