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Regional Development Officer for Ulster
Cycling Ireland
Cycling Ireland is the National Governing Body for cycling with a vision of Ireland, an island enriched by cycling.
Job Posted- 15 Feb 2026
Status- Contract - Fixed Term
- Full Time
Location- Northern Ireland
Closing date- 6 Mar 2026
About Cycling Ireland
Cycling Ireland is the National Governing Body for Cycling on the island of Ireland, representing road, track, mountain bike, BMX, para-cycling and associated disciplines. We support a diverse and growing network of clubs, volunteers, coaches and participants, working collectively to make cycling accessible, inclusive and well-governed at every level. Further information is available at www.cyclingireland.ie.
Role Location
Ulster (Hybrid working within Ulster to enable easy access to clubs, cycling hubs, and other key stakeholders in the region). Attendance at the Cycling Ireland Office, on the Sport Ireland Campus as required by the role for Team Meetings.
Contract
Full-time, fixed-term 1-year contract, with potential extension subject to funding.
Role Purpose
Cycling Ireland is seeking a Regional Development Officer for Ulster with a strong people-centred approach to club development and participation growth.
At the heart of this role is the ability to connect people, strengthen structures and support clubs to thrive. The postholder will work closely with clubs and volunteers to improve governance standards, build sustainable operating models, grow and retain membership, and ensure clubs are financially and organisationally sound.
This is a hands-on development role for someone who understands that strong clubs are built through trust, clarity, collaboration and good systems—and that bringing people together is the foundation of long-term participation.
Reporting & Working Relationships
The Regional Development Officer reports to the Participation Manager and works collaboratively with internal Cycling Ireland teams, Provincial structures, commissions, Local Sports Partnerships, schools and community stakeholders.
Remuneration & Conditions
Salary: Commensurate package with experience and in line with funding parameters.
Hours: 39 hours per week. Flexibility required, including some evenings and weekends.
Travel: Extensive regional travel required; mileage reimbursed in accordance with Cycling Ireland policy.
KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Club Development, Governance & Structure
• Act as a primary point of contact for clubs across Ulster, building trusted and consistent relationships with club officers and volunteers.
• Support clubs to strengthen their governance, committee structures and operational practices, working closely with Cycling Ireland’s Governance and Safeguarding functions.
• Assist new clubs through the establishment process and provide tailored support to existing clubs seeking to grow, restructure or become more sustainable.
• Promote good practice in areas such as role clarity, volunteer succession planning, safeguarding compliance and effective committee functioning.
Membership Growth & Participation Pathways
• Drive sustainable increases in Cycling Ireland membership across Ulster, with particular focus on youth, women and leisure cycling.
• Support clubs to convert participants from programmes, events and initiatives into long-term members.
• Work with clubs to identify barriers to retention and help develop practical, inclusive solutions that keep people engaged in cycling.
• Liaise with Safeguarding and Governance personnel with CI to ensure all clubs are compliant and assist clubs where necessary.
• Assisting new clubs in setting up and established clubs to grow and develop through various programmes, initiatives and education.
• Identify potential gaps with no club representation in the area, and start activities that could help develop a new club in the area – social rides, youth camps, couch to 30/50k etc.
• Collaborate with the Cycle Right team to engage the 47,000+ children who participate in the program and establish links with clubs (Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan). Ensure similar programmes being delivered across Norther Ireland clubs.
• Work with Local Authorities and Local Sports Partnerships (where appropriate) to support the development and use of cycling amenities within the province e.g. pump tracks, off road cycle tracks, mountain bike facilities, learn to cycle tracks.
• Encourage the increased use of the Cycling Hubs within the Province for clubs to run organised activities to grow membership and increase community engagement
Bringing People Together – Community & Engagement
• Foster collaboration between clubs, schools, Local Sports Partnerships and community groups to create clear participation pathways.
• Act as a connector across the province—bringing volunteers, coaches, parents and participants together through shared initiatives and local engagement.
• Represent Cycling Ireland at relevant regional events, conferences and forums, strengthening relationships and visibility within the wider sport and community landscape.
Cycling Ireland is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Education, Coaching & Volunteer Development
• Coordinate the delivery of appropriate training and support clubs in building local leadership capacity.
• Work with coaches and coach developers to ensure clubs have access to appropriate coaching support, particularly at entry and development levels.
• Encourage a positive volunteer experience by supporting training, recognition and clear role definition within clubs.
Youth & Schools Engagement
• Collaborate with the Cycling Ireland’s Cycle Right team to maximise the impact of the programme and strengthen links between schools and local clubs.
• Support the development of materials and pathways that encourage young participants and their families to engage with clubs following school-based programmes.
Planning, Budgeting & Accountability
• Manage the financial aspects of regional activity, including budget preparation, monitoring and reporting.
• Plan and prioritise workload effectively, ensuring resources are directed toward high-impact, sustainable outcomes.
• Produce clear reports on activities, outputs and participation trends, contributing to organisational planning and funding accountability.
General Responsibilities
• Act as a professional ambassador for Cycling Ireland at all times.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with internal colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Attend meetings, events and training as required, including occasional evening and weekend work.
• Operate with integrity, discretion and professionalism in all aspects of the role.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Essential Requirements
• Eligibility to work in Ulster on a full-time basis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Full, unrestricted driver’s licence and access to transport.
Essential Skills & Experience
• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in sports development or a comparable community-based role.
• Experience working with sports clubs, volunteers or community organisations in a development or support capacity.
• Strong understanding of club-based sport structures and the realities of volunteer-led organisations.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders toward shared goals.
• Proven ability to work across multiple projects simultaneously.
Desirable
• Third-level qualification in Sports Science, Sports Management or a related discipline.
Cycling Ireland is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Personal Attributes
• A genuine commitment to participation, inclusion and community-based sport.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and bring people together.
• Organised, pragmatic and comfortable working with budgets and reporting requirements.
• Adaptable, solutions-focused and confident working independently across a large region.
• A collaborative team player with a strong sense of accountability.
Application Process
Please click 'Apply Now' to submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to for the attention of Myra McGlynn, no later than Friday, 6th March 2026 at 15:00.
Appointment is subject to:
Satisfactory Garda Vetting / Access NI Vetting and appropriate Reference checks
Cycling Ireland is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.