Federations & Governing Bodies
Chief Technology Officer
Executive / Board
London, United Kingdom
hybrid
Full time
Apply by 13/11/2026
Job description
About the Role
Reporting to the CEO and operating as a key member of the executive team, the role will define and deliver an ambitious, organisation-wide technology vision that supports operational excellence, audience engagement and sustainable revenue growth. It is a broad and influential leadership position encompassing technology strategy, data, AI, infrastructure, enterprise systems, cybersecurity and innovation. Working closely with leaders across The FA, the role ensures technology investment is focused on priorities that make the greatest difference to the organisation, its stakeholders and fans, and that The FA can innovate responsibly and operate effectively at scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and deliver an ambitious technology transformation strategy aligned with The FA's wider organisational and commercial priorities.
- Lead a clear, prioritised technology roadmap that balances immediate operational needs with long-term transformation and growth.
- Lead the development and optimisation of enterprise systems, platforms and infrastructure, ensuring they are secure, scalable and deliver an excellent user experience.
- Shape and deliver an organisation-wide data strategy that strengthens decision-making, supports product development and enables future commercial growth.
- Champion the responsible adoption of AI across The FA, embedding appropriate governance, risk controls and practical applications within technology and product development.
- Provide executive leadership across cybersecurity, data privacy, business continuity, disaster recovery and technology risk.
- Work in close partnership with the Chief Digital Officer to enable the delivery of an ambitious digital product roadmap and joined-up experiences for audiences.
- Lead the selection and management of strategic technology partners, ensuring the right balance between internal capability and external expertise, with a strong focus on value for money.
- Lead a high-performing technology function with the capability, culture and confidence to challenge, innovate and deliver.
- Provide the Board and executive team with clear, evidence-based insight into technology performance, investment, opportunity and risk.
Required Experience & Qualifications
- An accomplished technology executive with the strategic judgement, commercial perspective and leadership credibility to operate effectively at Board and executive level.
- A strong track record of developing and delivering technology strategies within a complex, consumer-facing or multi-stakeholder organisation.
- The commercial and financial acumen to connect technology investment to organisational performance, customer experience and revenue growth.
- Experience of leading significant transformation across enterprise technology, digital products, data, infrastructure and cloud-based environments.
- Strong understanding of AI and its application across software, product development and organisational processes, alongside robust governance and risk management.
- The ability to create clarity from competing priorities and translate business needs into a focused, scalable and deliverable roadmap.
- Deep appreciation of cybersecurity, data protection, regulatory compliance and the importance of organisational resilience.
- Experience of building strong internal capability while selecting and managing technology suppliers and strategic partners effectively.
- A record of building and leading high-performing, multidisciplinary teams through change.
- The communication and influencing skills to engage credibly with the Board, executive colleagues and a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders.
- Forward-looking, intellectually curious and comfortable balancing innovation with risk.
- Strong understanding of consumer, data and digital ecosystems, together with a genuine interest in the role technology can play in shaping the future of sport and entertainment.
- Completion of a DBS check, with the level determined by the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.
Workplace
- Hybrid working model, with the expectation to work from the contractual location for part of the week and as and when required by the team; remaining days can be worked remotely.
- The hybrid model will continue to be monitored and may be adjusted in future if deemed necessary.
- Office spaces are located under the arch of the iconic Wembley National Stadium, the home of English Football.
- A world-class Elite Performance Centre, St. George's Park in Staffordshire, provides an exceptional setting to develop and inspire high-performing England teams and leaders.
- The contractual location of the role is listed on the FA Careers page.
Benefits & Perks
- Access to event day tickets at Wembley Stadium, alongside regular internal events throughout the season, to encourage connection and learning with colleagues and support mental health and well-being.
- Free, nutritious lunches at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park.
- Private medical cover funded by The FA.
- A contributory pension scheme.
- An additional 'Thank You' day's leave.
- Volunteering days.
- 25 days of annual leave (based on a full-time, permanent contract).
- A hybrid working model which offers greater flexibility.
- Opportunities to develop and grow in the role.
The Application Process
The FA is working with Ivy Street as its executive search partner for this appointment. Further information about the application and selection process will be provided as part of the candidate materials.
- Candidates with particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process should mention this during their application.
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