Sports Development Officer (Part-Time) for Diving Ireland

Position Title: Sports Development Officer (Part-Time )

Organisation: Diving Ireland (National Governing Body)

Location: Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin

Employment Type: Part-Time (3 days a week)

Application Deadline: 31 October 2024

Overview of Diving Ireland

Diving Ireland is the national governing body for recreational underwater sports in Ireland, with offices in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. We set standards for the promotion and training of all underwater sports, including scuba diving, snorkelling, underwater hockey and freediving, throughout the island of Ireland. Diving Ireland currently represents approximately 60 clubs and has a membership base of approximately 2,000. Diving Ireland is a member of the Federation of Irish Sport and receives core funding from Sport Ireland.

Diving Ireland is managed by a voluntary Board of Directors who are elected by the membership each year at an Annual General Meeting. Diving Ireland employs a full time Operations Manager, a part-time Office Administrator and engages the services of an external contractor (a bookkeeper). In 2023 Diving Ireland approved a new 3-year Strategy Statement to increase participation and progression and to build organisational sustainability and resilience, and an Operational Plan to guide the work of the organisation from 2024 -2026.

Our Vision is to inspire a passion in underwater sports & our environment. Our Mission is to grow participation in Diving Ireland activities, to support & empower our community of clubs, and to promote, protect & preserve the marine environment. Our work is underpinned by our Values of Community, Safety, Environment and Quality.

Diving Ireland's Instructor/Coaching programme is integrated with the Adventure Sports Instructor framework developed by Sport Ireland. Diving Ireland is a member of the World Federation for Underwater Sports (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (C.M.A.S.).

Sports Development Officer (part-time)

Diving Ireland is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Sports Development Officer to join our team. This role is pivotal in driving the growth and development of underwater sports within our community. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in building partnerships, developing and implementing sports programmes, and engaging effectively with local, regional, and national clubs. If you are passionate about sports and community engagement, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

Partnership Development

- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with our clubs, regional organisations such as Local Sports Partnerships (LSP) or County Councils’ sports offices, and national bodies such as Sport Ireland or the Federation of Irish Sports, in order to foster collaboration and support for underwater sports initiatives.

- Identify and engage potential partners, including schools, community centres, and other sports organisations, to enhance programme reach and impact.

- Work closely with stakeholders to align objectives and ensure mutual benefits in partnership agreements.

Programme Development and Implementation

- Lead the development and implementation of innovative sports programmes aimed at increasing participation in underwater sports across various demographics.

- Design and execute engaging events, workshops, and training sessions that promote skill development and community involvement.

- Monitor and evaluate programme effectiveness, using feedback to refine and enhance future initiatives.

Community Engagement and Relationship Building

- Actively engage with the community to raise awareness and interest in underwater sports, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all.

- Build strong relationships with clubs, coaches, and volunteers to create a supportive network for programme delivery.

- Organise outreach initiatives to attract diverse populations and encourage participation in sports activities.

Project Management

- Demonstrate strong project management skills by effectively planning, executing, and overseeing multiple projects simultaneously.

- Develop timelines, budgets, and resource allocation plans to ensure successful programme delivery.

- Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for stakeholders, showcasing programme outcomes and recommendations for future initiatives.

Funding and Resource Management

- Identify funding opportunities and assist in the preparation of grant applications to support sports development initiatives.

- Manage programme budgets and resources efficiently, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial reporting.

- Maintain accurate records of programme activities, participant engagement, and financial expenditures.

Qualifications

Essential

- Proven experience as a Sports Development Officer or in a similar role, with a strong focus on partnership development and programme implementation.

- Demonstrated success in community engagement and relationship building with clubs and other organisations at local, regional, and national levels.

- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.

- Strong self-motivation, with the ability to work independently and take initiative in driving projects forward.

Desirable

- Relevant qualifications in sports development, coaching, or a related field.

- Experience working with National Governing Bodies or local sports organisations.

- Knowledge of funding sources and experience in grant writing.

- Knowledge of, or interest in, underwater sports (scuba diving, snorkelling, underwater hockey, freediving)

Personal Attributes

- Passionate about sports and community development, with a commitment to promoting inclusivity.

- Creative thinker with the ability to develop innovative solutions to challenges.

- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with a talent for engaging diverse audiences.

Package

Competitive package commensurate with qualifications and experience for the role. 14 days annual leave (including 3 company days between Christmas and New Year). Pension and sick leave entitlement are also included in the package.

Working Hours & Location

The successful candidate will work 3 days per week (24 hours per week) typically during normal business hours; however they will be expected to work on evenings and weekends, from time to time in agreement with the Executive Committee and the Operations Manager, to support the significant voluntary base of the organisation. Time in Lieu is available for such scenarios. Arrangements for working time will be agreed with the successful candidate during the appointment stage.

Diving Ireland's Head Office location is in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. A hybrid working arrangement can be discussed during the appointment stage.

Application and Selection Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and motivation for applying to jobs@diving.ie. Please include "Part-Time Sports Development Officer Application" in the subject line.

The selection process may include shortlisting of candidates. The selection criteria will be based on the requirements of the position as set out above. It is therefore important that you provide a detailed and accurate account of how you believe your qualifications, skills and experience to date meet the requirements for the position of Sports Development Officer. This should be contained in a short document (maximum 2 pages) accompanying your CV. Candidates who have been successful at the shortlisting stage will be invited to an interview focused on seeking to establish the extent to which applicants possess and can demonstrate the skills required for the Sports Development Officer role.

Diving Ireland is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees.

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Sports Development Officer