Application Pack

Job Title: Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Director

Reports to: Accountable to the Membership of Cornwall FA and Chair of the Board 

Role Purpose: 

In the role of Chair lead and support an effective, constructive and cohesive Inclusion Advisory Group (IAG).

To assist the IAG Members and all Cornwall County FA staff to plan, lead and develop a strategic vision for inclusion in football within the County.

Work alongside Cornwall FA staff to understand the needs of the local population in grassroots football across Cornwall.

To positively contribute to Board discussions, promoting the delivery of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) and to check and challenge.

To provide advice to executive on improving customer service standards and use of insight that help grow the game of football across the county.

Championing engagement with underrepresented communities.

To act as an ambassador for the Association.

Direct Reports: IAG Members

Location: Devon and Cornwall based as regular site visits may be required, as well as a commitment to attend Board meetings. 

Remuneration or Expenses:

Reasonable expenses for related business, in line with the current Expenses Policy.

Travel and accommodation expenses for events reimbursed as per the Expense Policy.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• To attend any national or regional FA inclusion events (where possible and relevant). 

• To support the recruitment of and inspire the very best and talented IAG team possible. 

• To ensure the performance of the IAG is measured and accountable where possible. 

• To prepare the Agenda for IAG meetings. 

• To work closely with the Cornwall County FA CEO, Football Delivery Lead, and all Cornwall FA staff where relevant, to ensure resources are effectively prioritised for inclusion to be embedded across all Cornwall FA work and staff. 

• To undertake relevant training and ensure all group members undertake the necessary training to remain compliant with FA regulations. 

• To ensure that IAG action points are documented and actioned. 

• Support the team to ensure Cornwall FA facilities are welcoming, accessible and inclusive for the local community. 

• Ensure compliance with the Companies Act (2006), the organisation’s Articles of Association, relevant legislation, regulations, and codes. 

• Act in line with the Board’s Code of Conduct. 

• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Board. 

ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES

EDI Expertise

In-depth knowledge of equality legislation, diversity frameworks, and inclusive best practices.

Compliance and Governance

Understanding of equity regulations, the Equality Act, and their application in a not-for-profit context.

Social and Commercial Acumen

Demonstrate an understanding of how inclusive practices drive community engagement and diverse revenue growth.

Financial Literacy

Proficiency in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation for EDI initiatives.

Strategic Vision

Ability to develop and implement long-term EDI strategies aligned with organisational objectives.

Analytical Thinking

Skilled in analysing demographic, workforce, and accessibility data to inform decision-making and strategy.

Problem-Solving

Capacity to identify systemic barriers and develop solutions to enhance inclusion and equitable opportunities.

Stakeholder Management

Skill in engaging with diverse communities, advocacy groups, staff, and Board members to build trust.

Change Management

Experience in leading cultural change initiatives, particularly in improving inclusivity and embedding equitable processes.

Communication Skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex, sensitive information clearly.

Relationship Building

Form productive relationships internally and externally to develop strategic partnerships with underrepresented groups.

Inclusive Leadership

Mastery in applying principles of inclusive practice and an absolute commitment to driving equality, diversity, and inclusion.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

Leadership Skills

Lead EDI initiatives, inspiring and motivating volunteers, staff, and community stakeholders.

Market Insight

Deep understanding of demographic data, underrepresented group needs, and intersectional barriers.

Innovation

Capacity to identify and pursue new inclusion practices, cultural partnerships, and diverse revenue streams.

Creativity

Encourage teams to develop innovative inclusion strategies, expanding current thinking to optimise resources and engagement.

Meeting Participation

Ability to contribute productively to Board discussions, ensuring all diverse voices are heard.

Knowledge of Nonprofit Sector

Understanding the unique equity challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit sector, with experience working with or on behalf of nonprofit organisations.

Business Coaching and Mentoring

Ability to coach, mentor, and deliver cultural competency training to Board members and staff.

Safeguarding

Thorough understanding of safeguarding requirements, specifically protecting vulnerable and diverse groups from discrimination or harm.

Crisis Management

Skills in handling EDI-related crises or reputational risks, with the ability to develop and implement sensitive resolution plans.

Commitment to the Mission

Passion for the organisation’s purpose, dedicating time and effort to support equality, diversity, and inclusion needs.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Relevant Degree

A qualification in equality and diversity, human rights, social policy, sports development with an inclusion focus, or relevant equivalent experience.

EDI Training

A relevant certification in inclusive leadership, unconscious bias training, neurodiversity awareness, or advanced cultural competency.

Professional Membership

Membership with a recognised body such as the Institute of Of Equality and Diversity Professionals (IEDP), CIMSPA (with an inclusion focus), or equivalent.

Continuous Development

Evidence of ongoing professional development in evolving EDI legislation, social justice trends, and best practices.

SUMMARY

This role is vital for ensuring the organisation’s equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives are managed effectively, providing a safe, accessible, and inclusive environment for its operations, participants, and communities.

The EDI Director will also bring a strategic approach to diverse community engagement, using progressive inclusion practices to tap into new demographics, build community partnerships, and drive innovative thinking to Cornwall FA as it develops and opens its first facility.

APPLY NOW

CLOSING DATE:

Application closes midnight 23rd September 2026

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please complete application form and Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form below by Wednesday 23rd September 2026.

Interviews to be held on Tuesday 29th & Wednesday 30th of September (Online)

APPLICATION DOCUMENTS

View application pack: https://www.calameo.com/esports-media/read/0012302354d6b69b7d20f?authid=7O6l9mdgBD3j

Complete application form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019e1b345c7478d69669c2011bd75e92

Complete your Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019e20557fa7700c8b2a3feabfb8bbb7

If you would like to talk to us about reasonable adjustments, please complete the form found here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019e257dbf027674887183798c1d469a

CONTACT

Please contact the Chair or CEO to arrange a call or feel free to ask questions via email.

Cornwall FA Chair - John Fabby 
 [email protected]

CEO Vicky Fisher 
 [email protected]