Head of Sales & Partnerships

Job Title: Head of Sales & Partnerships

Location: FAI HQ, Abbottstown, Dublin

Direct Reporting Line: Commercial Director

Commencement Date: TBC

Duration: Permanent / Full Time

Work Model: Hybrid

Introduction

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is the national governing body for football in Ireland, driving the growth, promotion, and development of the game at all levels. We are passionate about inspiring participation, supporting talent, and celebrating the power of football to unite communities across the country. With a proud history and an ambitious vision for the future, the FAI is committed to fostering excellence on and off the pitch, ensuring the game is inclusive, accessible, and a source of national pride.

Purpose of the Role

The Head of Sales & Partnerships will lead the strategic direction, development, and delivery of all commercial sales and partnership initiatives. This role is pivotal in driving revenue growth, strengthening relationships with commercial partners, and enhancing the commercial profile of Irish football at every level - from grassroots to the national team.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy aligned with the FAI's strategic priorities and commercial goals.
• Lead the Sales & Partnerships team to achieve ambitious revenue targets across sponsorship, licensing, and broadcast streams.
• Identify, negotiate, and secure new commercial partnerships, while maintaining and growing existing relationships.
• Drive innovative revenue generating initiatives by identifying emerging trends and new market opportunities.
• Collaborate with Marketing & Communications, League of Ireland, and Legal teams to activate partnerships and ensure contract deliverables are achieved.
• Prepare and deliver compelling sales presentations and partnership proposals that reflect the passion and vision of Irish football.
• Provide commercial forecasts, budgets, and regular reporting on performance, pipeline activity, risks, and KPIs.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a high performing Sales & Partnerships team.
• Represent the FAI at industry events and external stakeholder meetings.
• Establish and maintain meaningful relationships with key decision makers and stakeholders across the sports and business sectors.

Person Specification

• A driven, results oriented professional with a passion for sport and business growth.
• A collaborative leader who motivates others and thrives in a team oriented culture.
• A confident communicator capable of building and maintaining strong professional relationships.
• A strategic thinker with a proactive and solution focused approach.
• A flexible and adaptable individual, willing to work outside normal office hours as required.

Experience and Qualifications

Essential:

• Proven experience in sales, business development, or partnership management within sport, entertainment, or related industries.
• Demonstrated success in achieving sales targets and developing commercial partnerships.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing and motivating teams.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, or a related field.

Desirable:

• Passion for sport and understanding of the sports industry ecosystem.
• Established network of commercial, sponsorship, or agency contacts in Ireland and/or internationally.
• Experience within a sporting body, rights holder, or sports marketing agency.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and sales pipeline management tools.
• Knowledge of sponsorship activation and digital partnership trends.

Skills & Professional Knowledge

• Strategic and commercial acumen with the ability to identify and develop new revenue opportunities.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret data and apply insights to sales strategies.
• Excellent presentation and proposal development skills (PowerPoint/Keynote/Canva).
• Creative thinking with the ability to develop innovative partnership ideas and activations.
• Strong understanding of digital and social media trends in sports marketing.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast paced environment.
• Strategic & organisational awareness
• Communication & stakeholder engagement
• Leadership & team management
• Collaboration & teamwork

Competencies

1. Innovation & Continuous Improvement (Progress). Thinks creatively and with an open mind to identify new opportunities for growth and improvement. Embraces change positively and contributes to building a better future for Irish football.
2. Drive & Commitment (Passion). Demonstrates energy, enthusiasm, and pride in everything they do. Takes initiative, delivers results, and strives to make a meaningful impact on the game and the organisation.
3. Collaboration & Teamwork (Togetherness). Works effectively and respectfully with others to achieve shared goals. Supports, challenges, and motivates colleagues to perform at their best, recognising that success is achieved together.
4. Communication & Influence (Togetherness / Passion). Communicates clearly, openly, and respectfully with colleagues and stakeholders. Builds positive relationships, inspires trust, and represents the FAI with professionalism and integrity.
5. Accountability & Professional Excellence (Progress / Passion). Takes ownership of performance and upholds high standards in all tasks. Acts responsibly, follows through on commitments, and contributes to the FAI's vision of continuous progress and excellence.

Our Benefits

We are proud of the range of benefits we can provide:

• Two premium level tickets to each home international game
• Sick pay scheme and family friendly leave
• Opportunities to work at international matches
• Company pension
• Life assurance
• Bike to work scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Employee assistance programs
• Hybrid working arrangements and flexible hours working arrangements
• Discounted access to the National Aquatic Centre and gym complex

Application Details

Closing date for receipt of applications is close of business on 17th December 2025. Shortlisting and interviewing process will take place thereafter.

The Football Association of Ireland is an equal opportunities employer and promotes Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I).