Independent Advisor To The Disability Football Committee

Independent Advisor to the Disability Football Committee (DFC)

The Football Association (The FA) is the not-for-profit governing body of football in England, dedicated to promoting the sport and inspiring positive change through the game. We are responsible for developing and advancing football at every level, from grassroots to the professional game, generating revenue to support investment in English football.

The FA oversees all England international teams, including men's, women's, youth, and para football. We manage FA competitions such as the Emirates FA Cup, the Youth Cup, and the Adobe Women's FA Cup. Additionally, we oversee men's and women's leagues below the professional level. Our remit includes the world-class facilities of Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park.

The FA Disability Football Committee (DFC) is an integral part of our governance structure, dedicated to promoting and developing disability football across England. We are seeking to appoint an independent advisor with the requisite skills and knowledge to advance the important work in this area.

The Role

The primary role of the Independent Advisor is to provide strategic direction during meetings, support the implementation of the Disability Football Strategy, and offer an independent perspective on matters such as development, performance, stakeholder management, and good governance

The Independent Advisor will:

• Provide guidance to the committee, contributing to collaborative meetings and ensuring the Executive is supported to succeed.
• In conjunction with the Executive, support the development and implementation of the Disability Football Strategy.
• Support the committee's annual objectives, proactively contribute to meetings, and align the committee's work with its Terms of Reference.
• Offer insights and recommendations to improve governance, including policies, procedures, and overall effectiveness of the committee's work.
• Foster a cooperative atmosphere for open dialogue and informed decision-making.
• Advocate for the FA and Disability Football at all levels, promoting their policies, objectives, and values.
• Consistently exercise good judgment, rooted in strong moral and ethical principles.
• Support the delivery of agreed-upon actions from meetings.

Person Specification

• Strong knowledge of the football environment, with significant experience in para and disability sport.
• Experience as a committee member, trustee, or in a senior leadership position in any sector. We are also open to appointing first-time committee members with relevant experience and the ambition, talent, and commitment to help us.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels of the sport, including Board members.
• Driven by a genuine passion for football and a strong belief in its potential as a positive force for good.

Term:

The Independent Advisor will be appointed on an initial term of 3 years and can serve for a maximum of 3 terms of 3 years

Time Commitment & Remuneration:

The DFC meets at least twice per season. Meetings are typically held midweek during working hours, either at Wembley Stadium, St. George's Park, or via Microsoft Teams. Additional meetings may be required to address the committee's broader work with other internal and external stakeholder groups, as well as to attend matches and events as needed.

The DFC appoints 2 of its members to represent Disability Football on The FA Council.  The Council meets a minimum of 4 times per season either at Wembley Stadium or St. George's Park or through Microsoft Teams.

An allowance can be claimed for attendance at each meeting of the DFC (currently £105/meeting) along with any travel or subsistence expenses incurred.