The FA Kickstart: Leaders Mentor Programme

The FA Kickstart: Leaders Mentor Programme (Mentor)

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 - Mentor

Program Overview: The FA KICKSTART: Leaders Mentor Programme seeks up to five experienced and accomplished professionals in the football industry to serve as mentors. Mentors will play a crucial role in guiding and supporting aspiring individuals, sharing their expertise, and contributing to the overall development of the next generation of leaders in the football industry.

Commitment: Mentors 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 mentees and ‘mentoring circles' groups, provide guidance, share insights, and actively contribute to the mentees' professional development.

Group mentoring sessions shall be up to two hours per month in duration. Mentors shall also provide up to 30 minutes of one-to-one conversations with each mentee per month, for a total commitment per mentor of up to 5.5 hours per month (maximum). At various intervals throughout the period (up to 6), mentees will be invited to specific sessions in person to receive training and development sessions, which mentors are welcome to attend.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Extensive Football Industry Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in the football industry, with a proven track record of success and leadership. Mentors should have a comprehensive understanding of the various business and professional disciplines of the industry, combined with a passion for equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Mentoring or Business Coaching Experience: Previous experience in mentoring, business coaching, or guiding individuals in a professional capacity. This could include formal mentorship roles, coaching positions, or leadership roles where mentorship was a key component.
• Networking and Industry Connections: Well-established professional networks within the football industry. Mentors should be able to leverage their connections to create opportunities for mentees and provide valuable insights into the industry landscape.
• Commitment to Education: A commitment to fostering learning and development, with a passion for contributing to the growth of individuals within the football industry.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively convey insights, provide feedback, and engage in meaningful discussions with mentees.
• Empathy and Patience: The ability to empathise with mentees, understanding their challenges and offering guidance with patience. A mentor should create a supportive and encouraging environment for mentees to thrive.
• Advisory and Strategic Thinking: Strong advisory and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to provide mentees with practical advice, guidance on career planning, and strategic insights into the football industry.
• Availability: Dedication to regularly meet with mentees (in person and online), attend program-related events, and contribute time outside of scheduled sessions for additional support and mentorship if required.
• Passion for Mentorship: A genuine passion for mentorship and a desire to make a positive impact on the next generation of professionals in the football industry.
• Commitment to Program Goals: Alignment with the goals and values of the programme, contributing to the program's success and the growth of mentees.

The Process

Application Process: Prospective mentors must submit an application which includes a CV, cover letter, and responses to specific questions addressing their eligibility, mentoring philosophy, and commitment to the programme. Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview process to assess their suitability for the mentorship role.

Note: The FA KICKSTART: Leaders Mentor Programme relies on the dedication and expertise of mentors who are committed to making a meaningful impact on the professional development of mentees. Mentors will contribute to shaping the future of the football industry by sharing their knowledge and experiences.

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 mentor applications: You work in a middle management/senior position, typically at a ‘Senior Manager' or wider equivalent position. Candidates with 10+ years of work experience are preferred.

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.