Cumann Lthchleas Gael is Irelands leading sporting and cultural organisation with membership approaching one million people and in excess of 500,000 playing participants at all levels. Inspired by its amateur status and supported by the voluntary efforts of all its members, the GAA devotes its entire resources to the development of Gaelic Games and Culture nationally and in local communities. The GAA Player, Club and Games Administration department is currently inviting suitable candidates to apply for the position of Club Referee Development Lead. Role/Purpose: The Club Referee Development Lead will be a senior appointment and responsible for implementing policies and programmes aimed at bolstering the recruitment, retention and development of Club referees. Reports/Accountable to: National Match Officials Manager Key Responsibilities: Club Referee Development Strategy: Produce and implement a strategic vision and action plan to recruit, retain and support Club referees in collaboration with the National Referee Development Committee, and their counterparts at Provincial and County levels. Provincial and County Support: Collaborate with Provincial and County Referee Administrators to support their work, particularly in delivering training courses and and continuously improving officiating standards. Needs Analysis: Audit the number and demographic profile of Club referees before setting and pursuing recruitment targets. Recruitment: Support the rollout of an annual recruitment campaign in each County to increase the number of Club referees. Retention: Develop and implement a retention programme, informed by current research, to retain and support existing Club referees. Online Resources: Create and maintain online learning courses and resources on the GAA Learning Portal (Tobar) to support referees. Communication and Promotion: Communicate and promote updates, courses, resources, initiatives and best practices to the Club referee network on a regular basis, with diligent tracking and reporting of engagement. Partnerships: Partner with other groups across the Gaelic Games Associations, such as Coaching and Games Development Committees & Health and Wellbeing Committees to co-create and deliver initiatives that will benefit Club referees. For example, contributing to a national Respect campaign. Essential Criteria At least three years experience in a relevant role A relevant third level degree (Level 7 NFQ or above). A passion for Gaelic Games and an understanding of the structures and culture of the GAA. Excellent IT skills with a strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office and related software packages and systems. Ability to work independently on own initiative as well as part of a team. Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills. Strong organisational skills with a demonstrable ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities to tight deadlines. Exceptional attention to detail and excellent record management and reporting skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Full Drivers license Desirable Criteria Experience of refereeing in Gaelic games Experience of working in the GAA or a similar sporting organisation (Voluntary or professional capacity). Experience of working in a volunteer led organisation/voluntary sector and building strong relationships with members. Other Requirements The role holder will need to be flexible in the performance of his/her responsibilities as he/she will be required to work out of office hours and some weekends. Candidates interested in the above role should apply by submitting an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae on or before April 25th 2025 The GAA is an equal opportunities employer.