Wiltshire FA - Football Development Manager

Wiltshire FAis seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Football Development Manager to join their leadership team and drive the evolution of grassroots football across the county.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic, people‑focused leader who is passionate about developing football pathways, improving facilities, and shaping the future of the game for all participants.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Football Development Manager will play a pivotal role in delivering Wiltshire FA's organisational and business objectives. Acting as part of the management team, the postholder will lead the Football Development function, oversee a dedicated team, and work closely with partners to ensure high‑quality, inclusive football opportunities are accessible across Wiltshire.

They will also oversee facility development, ensuring every affiliated fixture is played on a ‘good' quality pitch, activating Football Foundation projects, and protecting existing football sites. The role includes supporting the implementation of The FA's Safeguarding 365 Standard and promoting the use of FA technology systems.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Football Development

• Lead, support and develop the Football Development team, setting objectives and monitoring performance.
• Deliver an annual operational plan to grow and improve football across all pathways (male, female, disability).
• Use data and insight to develop local solutions and enhance participation and quality.
• Strengthen relationships with clubs, leagues, volunteers, schools and community partners.
• Manage coach development programmes, widening access and representation among coaches.

Facilities & Development

• Ensure every affiliated match is played on a high‑quality pitch.
• Track pitch quality and facility provision across Wiltshire.
• Activate Local Football Facility Plan projects in partnership with the Football Foundation.
• Support clubs with ground‑grading, funding applications and long‑term facility development.
• Contribute to local planning consultations and Playing Pitch Strategies.

Safeguarding

• Work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Officer to ensure safe delivery of programmes involving under‑18s and adults at risk.
• Ensure safeguarding and equality are embedded across football development activity.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Degree‑level qualification OR at least two years' sports development experience.
• Understanding of the County FA network and its relationship with The FA.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluating programmes.
• Strong knowledge of equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience working with volunteers.

Essential Skills

• Strategic thinking and planning capabilities.
• Excellent leadership and staff development skills.
• Strong communication, presentation and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Project management experience with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Confident in using data to inform decisions.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Effective budget management skills.

Desirable

• Experience of project management or bid writing.
• Understanding of FA safeguarding standards and grassroots football strategies.
• Experience using mapping software for strategic planning.

Additional Requirements

• Enhanced DBS Check
• Companies House disqualified directors' register check
• Full, clean driving licence

WORKING ARRANGEMENTS

• Contract: Full‑time, permanent
• Hours: 35 per week (some evening and weekend work required)
• Location: Hybrid — Wiltshire FA Office (Devizes), homeworking, and travel across the county

WHY JOIN?

This is a rare opportunity to influence the direction of grassroots football in Wiltshire. The successful candidate will help shape inclusive pathways, enhance facilities, support volunteers, and ensure football across the county is safe, accessible and thriving.