Sports Development Officer

• identifying sport, recreation and health initiatives and overseeing strategic planning and implementation;
• coordinating, delivering and promoting relevant activities, classes and events, often within a specific community or to targeted groups;
• employing, training, supporting, developing and managing coaches and volunteer staff;
• raising public awareness of health and fitness issues and promoting participation in sport, particularly amongst underrepresented groups;
• evaluating and monitoring activities and projects using performance indicators;
• maintaining records and producing written reports;
• attending local, regional and national meetings, seminars and conferences;
• checking venues and managing facilities;
• liaising with clubs to develop best practice in coaching, youth development and issues such as safeguarding to manage clubs effectively;
• working in partnership with school initiatives such as active schools, to encourage participation in sport and organise parental involvement;
• working with national governing bodies (NGBs) for specific sports in relation to clubs and events;
• developing a range of partnerships with organisations and initiatives focused on health education, criminal justice and community regeneration;
• managing resources and a budget and identifying potential opportunities for external funding;
• maintaining links with state, regional and national sporting representatives and organisations;
• working within specific guidelines, e.g. equal opportunities, health and safety, child protection;
• offering coaching and supervision when appropriate.

A specialised post, such as a disability sports development officer, may also involve the following activities:

• educating and training coaches, volunteers and facilities staff. Experts in disability awareness may also be called on, where appropriate;
• using information and publicity to ensure people with disabilities are more aware of the sporting opportunities available to them;
• working in partnership with appropriate organisations to deliver a programme of activities;
• organising sport-specific activities and maintaining inclusivity in sports.