Head of Operations

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional senior leader as our first Head of Operations. This is a significant strategic hire that will shape the future of our organisation, joining us at an exciting point of growth and ambition.

The role has been created as part of our planned restructure, moving from eight departments to two, and marks the establishment of a formal Senior Leadership Team.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Operations will hold strategic accountability across all operational functions, including digital systems, governance, financial management, people and culture, and stakeholder experience.

The successful applicant will report directly to the Chief Executive and will act as a trusted senior leader within the organisation. The postholder will directly line-manage the Facility Manager, Marketing & Communications Manager, Finance Manager and Safeguarding Manager.

We are committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk, and anyone working with us will be required to follow our safeguarding policies.

Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced check through The FA DBS process. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided.

What can we offer?

• An exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking, progressive organisation at a pivotal moment

• A senior leadership role with genuine strategic influence and direct impact on the future direction of Sussex FA

• A chance to work with key stakeholders across the grassroots and professional game

• A commitment to empowered and supportive personal development

• A Workplace Pension Scheme

• A Personal Accident policy

• Additional leave after 5 and 10 years’ service

• Flexible working hours

• Long Service Awards for 10, 15 and 20 years’ service

• Health Scheme

• Multi-Faith Prayer Room available

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Access to FA Cup Final and England tickets at Wembley

• Additional time off over Christmas, wellbeing leave and birthday holiday

• Personal Development Budgets

• Free Nike Staff Uniform every year

The role is full-time, permanent, based at the GoCardless Stadium, Culver Road, Lancing. Flexible working arrangements can be considered.

The salary range for the position is £38,000 to £42,000. The position offers 20 days leave per annum (plus public holidays, birthday and additional Christmas leave) and is subject to a 3-month probationary period.

Either email your completed application to ***email_hidden*** or post it to the following address:

Strictly Private & Confidential Jodi Hall Head of Operations Vacancy Sussex County FA Culver Road Lancing West Sussex BN15 9AX

Closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 8th June 2026, with interviews week commencing Monday 22nd June 2026.

Disability Confident

We pride ourselves on being an employer committed to supporting candidates with disabilities throughout our recruitment and selection process. We have a dedicated team to support any employee with a disability. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Equality Statement

We believe that football belongs to, and should be enjoyed by, anyone who wants to participate in it. We are committed to promoting equality within the business in every aspect of its work and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and experiences to apply for this role, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnership.

Full details on how to apply can be found here: https://www.sussexfa.com/news/2026/may/18/head-of-operations-vacancy