Chief Executive Officer Designate

Salary: £48,000 to £52,000
Location: Durham County FA, Riverside South, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, DH3 3QR
Hours: 35 hours per week, with additional hours as required. This is an office-based role.
Closing date: Noon on Friday 2 October 2026
Interview date: Thursday 15 October 2026

Durham County FA is seeking an inspirational and strategic leader to join the organisation as its Chief Executive Officer Designate. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of grassroots football across the county, while preparing to succeed the current Chief Executive Officer upon their retirement. 

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Directors and Senior Leadership Team, the successful candidate will support the delivery of Durham County FA's strategic vision and provide leadership across governance, operations, financial planning, workforce development, safeguarding and stakeholder engagement. They will also deputise for the Chief Executive Officer when required.

The role requires an experienced and credible leader with strong strategic planning, communication, relationship-building and decision-making skills. Applicants should have a sound understanding of grassroots football and the County FA landscape, together with a commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and safeguarding.

Durham County FA offers a workplace pension scheme, 22 days' annual leave increasing with service, plus bank holidays, an Employee Assistance Programme, free Nike staff uniform, a TOIL policy and the opportunity to join a health cash plan.

To apply

For further information, including how to apply, please download the recruitment pack below.