The FA Kickstart: Leaders Mentor Programme

The FA Kickstart: Leaders Mentor Programme (Mentee)

OUR GOAL

Unite the Game and Inspire the Nation

BACKGROUND

One of the FA seven strategic objectives is to be ‘A world-leading education programme for a diverse football workforce'. The FA has examined its own under-representation of historically underrepresented groups in senior leadership positions and is committed to developing greater equality of opportunities. This includes ensuring that more under-represented leaders obtain relevant qualifications and gain essential experience to challenge for senior positions across the football industry.

This programme is open to all female and male applicants, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups.  

The Role: Mentee

Program Overview: The FA KICKSTART: Leaders Mentee Programme aims to provide aspiring leaders from historically underrepresented groups within the football industry the opportunity to gain valuable insights, guidance, and support from experienced professionals to become tomorrow's leaders. Mentees will have the chance to enhance their understanding of the industry, develop essential skills, and navigate their career paths with the assistance of seasoned mentors.

Commitment: Mentees are expected to commit to the programme for a minimum of nine months and must have line-manager and organisational approval to take part. During this period, they will engage in regular meetings with their assigned mentors both individually and in ‘mentoring circle' groups, actively participate in program activities, and demonstrate a proactive approach to their own professional development.

Group mentoring sessions shall be up to two hours per month in duration either online using the Guider platform or in person. Mentees will also receive one-to-one conversations every month. At various intervals throughout the period (up to 6), mentees will be invited to specific in-person sessions to receive training and development.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Professional Experience: Candidates must be working in the football industry across any discipline and must currently be operating at mid-manager level which typically means having 5-8 years of experience.
• Passion for Football: A genuine and demonstrated passion for the sport of football is essential. This includes a deep understanding of the game, its culture, and its impact on communities.
• Commitment to Learning: The mentee should be eager to learn, open to feedback, and committed to personal and professional growth within the football industry.
• Communication Skills: Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are crucial. The ability to articulate ideas, ask insightful questions, and engage in meaningful conversations is highly valued.
• Adaptability: The football industry is dynamic and ever-changing. Mentees should be adaptable, able to navigate uncertainty, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
• Networking Aptitude: An understanding of the importance of networking and a willingness to expand professional connections within the football industry.
• Professionalism: Demonstrated professionalism, including punctuality, respect for others, and a positive attitude, is expected at all times
• Goal Orientation: Clear goals and objectives for what the mentee aims to achieve through the programme, showcasing a proactive attitude toward their own development.
• Availability: Commitment to attend regular 1-2-1 and ‘mentoring circle' meetings, workshops, and other program-related events. Availability to dedicate time outside of scheduled sessions for additional learning and networking opportunities.

The Process

Application Process: Candidates interested in becoming mentees must submit a short application, including a CV and responses to specific questions addressing their eligibility and commitment to the programme. Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview process to assess their suitability for the programme.

Note: The FA KICKSTART: Leaders Mentee Programme is designed to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between mentees and mentors, contributing to the overall growth and development of individuals within the football industry. Successful applicants will be those who align with the values and goals of the programme.

Reasonable expenses such as travel will be covered as part of the programme.

Stage 1: Expression of Interest

1. Submission of CV/Covering Letter.
2. Answering screening questions.

We encourage applications from candidates from historically underrepresented groups (based on race/ethnicity, gender, disability and sexual orientation, for example) and people with intersectional characteristics.

Please note, on the application form, you may be asked questions relating to salary expectations, and notice period - this can be marked as 1. 

Candidates with the following role characteristics are eligible to apply:

• You must work in the football industry on a full-time basis (any type of role and any aspect of football which is ‘off the pitch'). This programme will not accept candidates from on-pitch roles such as players, coaches and referees.
• You have line manager approval to take part in the programme
• For mentee applications: You work in a middle management position typically at ‘Manager, Officer or Senior Manager' position. Candidates with 5-10 years work experience are preferable.

Screened candidates will be invited to advance to stage 2.

Stage 2: Video interview process

• Completion of online video submission questions.

The FA, For All, For You

Our equality, diversity and inclusion strategy forms an integral part of our long-term commitment to using our influence across English football to create a game free from discrimination.

A Game For All outlines three key strategic commitments – Lead the Change, Be the Change, and Inspire the Change – which will ensure tackling discrimination remains a core priority for English football for years to come.

We are a diverse workplace, aspiring to represent football across the country. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity, encouraging you to be the best version of yourself at work.

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.

Our equality, diversity and inclusion strategy forms an integral part of our long-term commitment to using our influence across English football to create a game free from discrimination.

A Game For All outlines three key strategic commitments – Lead the Change, Be the Change, and Inspire the Change – which will ensure tackling discrimination remains a core priority for English football for years to come.

We are a diverse workplace, aspiring to represent football across the country. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity, encouraging you to be the best version of yourself at work.

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.