At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the recruitment and development of referees across Surrey while promoting equality and inclusion.
- Company: Surrey FA, dedicated to grassroots football and referee development.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for professional growth and community impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at Meadowbank Football Ground and contribute to meaningful change.
- Why this job: Make a difference in local football and help shape the future of refereeing.
- Qualifications: Passion for football, strong communication skills, and a commitment to inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Overview
The Football Development Officer - Referees & EDI will support the delivery of the Surrey FA Business Strategy, the FA Grassroots Football Strategy and the FA Referee Strategy by contributing to the recruitment, development, progression and retention of referees across Surrey. Working closely with the Referee Development Officer (RDO), the postholder will support the coordination of referee development activity, including elements of the Surrey FA Academy programme, and help build strong relationships with participating Academies and stakeholders.
Responsibilities
- Recruit, develop, progress and retain referees across Surrey in line with the Surrey FA Business Strategy, the FA Grassroots Football Strategy and the FA Referee Strategy.
- Coordinate referee development activity, including elements of the Surrey FA Academy programme, and build strong relationships with participating Academies and stakeholders.
- Provide operational and administrative support for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) activity across the organisation, working alongside the Football Development Officer - EDI to coordinate EDI processes, data, reporting and actions.
- Embed inclusive practice within referee development, ensuring safeguarding, equality and FA technology systems are consistently applied across programmes and activities.
Location and Hours
The position is full‑time and is based at Surrey FA's Headquarters at Meadowbank Football Ground in Dorking, Surrey.
Application Closing date: Midnight on 24 May 2026.
Football Development Support Officer in Dorking employer: The Football Association
Surrey FA is an exceptional employer that champions the development of grassroots football while fostering a culture of inclusivity and community engagement. Located at the scenic Meadowbank Football Ground in Dorking, employees benefit from a supportive work environment that prioritises professional growth and collaboration with local academies and stakeholders. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, Surrey FA offers meaningful opportunities for those passionate about making a positive impact in the world of football.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Football Development Support Officer in Dorking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the football community. Attend local matches, workshops, or events where you can meet referees and stakeholders. Building relationships can open doors for opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for football! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your experiences and how they align with the Surrey FA's goals, especially around referee development and inclusion.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the Surrey FA’s strategies. Understand their approach to grassroots football and EDI. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate that you’re not just a good fit, but the perfect fit for their team.
✨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 Surrey FA and contributing to their mission of developing referees across the region.
We think you need these skills to ace Football Development Support Officer in Dorking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role:Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Football Development Support Officer role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills that match your experience.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your unique skills and experiences align with the Surrey FA Business Strategy and the FA Grassroots Football Strategy. Make it personal and relevant!
Show Your Passion for Football:Let us know why you’re passionate about football and referee development. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to the sport and its growth.
Proofread and Submit:Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough proofread. Check for typos and ensure everything flows nicely. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Football Association
✨Know Your Strategies
Familiarise yourself with the Surrey FA Business Strategy, the FA Grassroots Football Strategy, and the FA Referee Strategy. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these strategies and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Since building strong relationships with Academies and stakeholders is key, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any specific initiatives or projects where you’ve fostered partnerships.
✨Emphasise EDI Commitment
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are crucial for this role. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of EDI principles and share any relevant experiences where you've promoted inclusive practices in sports or other settings.
✨Demonstrate Operational Support Experience
The role involves providing operational and administrative support, so think about your organisational skills. Prepare to discuss how you've managed similar tasks in previous roles, focusing on your attention to detail and ability to handle multiple responsibilities.
