Squash Ireland is the National Governing Body for squash on the island of Ireland. The organisation has undergone significant growth and professionalisation in recent years and has been shortlisted for NGB of the Year in both 2023 and 2024.
Squash Ireland is seeking to appoint a Club & Community Development Officer with a particular focus on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). This is an exciting opportunity for someone with the experience and energy to break down barriers and provide opportunities for lifelong participation in squash.
The position is funded through the Dormant Accounts Fund, and the successful candidate will be responsible for delivering a range of projects aligned with Sport Ireland’s Diversity & Inclusion in Sport Policy.
In addition to working closely with dedicated volunteers, the Club & Community Development Officer will collaborate with key partners such as Sport Ireland, Sporting Pride, Active Disability Ireland, and Local Sports Partnerships to promote inclusive and welcoming squash programmes and initiatives.
The role is initially offered on a 12-month fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension subject to continued Dormant Account funding.
Key Responsibilities
Club Support
- ● Support existing clubs to grow in an inclusive and sustainable manner, and assist with the development of new clubs.
- ● Identify opportunities for club funding and assist in the preparation of grant applications.
- ● Help clubs adopt best-in-class policies and procedures, including those related to Safeguarding and Diversity & Inclusion.
- ● Identify squash facilities in need of development or refurbishment in disadvantaged areas and support communities in establishing a vibrant squash presence.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- ● Develop new squash programmes aimed at encouraging participation among people of all backgrounds and abilities. Liaise with clubs and Local Sports Partnerships in delivering EDI programmes.
- ● Increase participation through the creation of innovative competition and event formats, including social squash tournaments.
- ● Assist with Dormant Account grant management, including record-keeping and report drafting
School programmes
- ● Develop successful collaboration programmes between clubs and schools, to increase participation among juniors
- ● Establish a participation-focused competition structure for schools and third-level institutions, and build links with local clubs.
- ● Pilot a Transition Year School Leaders Qualification.
Others
- ● Assist in the delivery of Coach Education Programmes to build capacity and accessibility.
- ● Act as an ambassador for Squash Ireland, promoting and championing diversity and inclusion at all levels of the sport.
- ● Establish a network of community coaches to deliver EDI programmes
- ● Support the review and update of Policies and Procedures as required
Experience & Competencies
- Knowledge and understanding of sports development and sports clubs structures and practices
- Previous experience in organising, developing and delivering sport programmes, events and initiatives
- Strong understanding of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion within the sports sector, and commitment to promoting it.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and motivate diverse stakeholders; familiarity with social media platforms is an advantage.
- Ability to manage own workload and meet deadlines.
- Highly motivated, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Experience working with volunteers is desirable.
- Understanding of squash and the ability to lead sessions is desirable.
Further Information
- 12-month Fixed-Term Contract (with the possibility of extension, subject to continued receipt of Dormant Accounts Funding)
- Full-time
- The Squash Ireland Office is located on the Sport Ireland Campus, Dublin 15. Flexible and remote working arrangements are available.
- Salary is dependent on experience.
The appointment will be made subject to satisfactory:
- Garda Vetting Checks
- Reference Checking Procedures
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email with the subject line: [ATTN: Club & Community Development Officer].
Please include the following:
- A letter of introduction detailing your skills and experience relevant to the role
- Your Curriculum Vitae, outlining your qualifications and work experience
Submit your application no later than 1st June 2025 to:
📧 [email protected]
Squash Ireland is an equal opportunity employer, committed to celebrating diversity and championing inclusivity. If you require any reasonable accommodations to assist you during the selection process, please let us know.
