At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to enhance sport and physical activity across Glasgow.
- Company: Glasgow Life, committed to community wellbeing and health improvement.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on community health and participation in sports.
- Qualifications: Proven strategic leadership experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
As Head of Sport & Physical Activity, you’ll be a part of an established senior team, reporting to the Director of Libraries, Sport & Physical Activity and Communities. You will lead, inspire and challenge a multi‑disciplinary team to lead the operational delivery of leisure services across multiple facilities and teams, ensuring safe, effective and financially sustainable services while supporting Glasgow Life’s wider ambitions for participation, health improvement and community wellbeing.
You’ll oversee projects and transformational change, driving innovation, inclusion, financial sustainability, and service excellence. You’ll be the strategic adviser to the Senior Leadership team as subject matter expert in sport and physical activity, driving the organisation’s mission and long‑term goals. Your work will make a visible and lasting difference.
We’re looking for a strategic, inspiring and collaborative leader who brings energy, credibility and vision. You’ll have a deep understanding of how sport and physical activity improve lives. You’ll bring strong business acumen, a people‑focused approach, and a commitment to delivering public value in a complex, high‑profile environment. You’ll be able to balance social impact with income generation and lead inclusively and authentically.
- A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
- Proven track record of strategic leadership in a senior role, with the ability to lead large, multi‑disciplinary teams and deliver results within a complex culture and sport environment.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to manage diverse, high‑level stakeholder relationships.
- Experience of influencing policy and representing Glasgow at a senior level across public, private, and third‑sector partners.
- A strategic thinker and planner with a proven track record of using business judgment to develop long‑term growth strategies.
- Strong financial and budget management skills with experience securing, managing, and growing income from diverse sources.
- Experienced in leading projects and teams in complex, high‑pressure environments, demonstrating resilience, decisiveness, and effective prioritisation.
- Knowledge of equality, diversity and inclusion work in sport and physical activity to address underrepresentation.
- A personal and professional commitment to Glasgow Life’s values — demonstrated through inclusive, values‑led leadership.
Location: Hybrid. You will have the flexibility to spend part of your week at home, and part of your week in one of our offices.
Head of Sport & Physical Activity: Glasgow Life employer: Triathlonscotland
Glasgow Life is an exceptional employer that champions a vibrant work culture focused on community wellbeing and participation in sport and physical activity. With a commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to lead transformative projects while enjoying a hybrid work model that promotes work-life balance. Join us in making a meaningful impact in Glasgow, where your leadership will drive innovation and inclusivity in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sport & Physical Activity: Glasgow Life
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the sport and physical activity sector. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out for informational chats. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or during interviews, let your enthusiasm for sport and community wellbeing shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in people's lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Research common interview questions for leadership roles in sport and physical activity. Think about how your experience aligns with Glasgow Life’s mission and be ready to discuss how you can drive innovation and inclusion in their services.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of the Glasgow Life team. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sport & Physical Activity: Glasgow Life
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Sport & Physical Activity. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role is all about leading a multi-disciplinary team, don’t forget to share examples of your past leadership experiences. We love to see how you've inspired and motivated others in complex environments.
Highlight Your Strategic Thinking:We’re looking for someone who can think big! Make sure to include instances where you’ve developed long-term strategies or driven transformational change. This will show us that you’re the strategic adviser we need.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Triathlonscotland
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Glasgow Life's mission and how sport and physical activity play a role in community wellbeing. Brush up on recent projects or initiatives they've undertaken, as this will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your strategic leadership skills and how you've successfully led multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Be ready to discuss how you inspire and challenge your team while balancing social impact with financial sustainability.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you can demonstrate your influencing skills, especially when discussing stakeholder relationships and policy influence.
✨Emphasise Inclusion and Diversity
Given the focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, be prepared to discuss your experience in these areas. Share specific examples of how you've addressed underrepresentation in sport and physical activity, and how you plan to continue this work at Glasgow Life.
