Contract: Fixed Term 2 years
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer
Salary: £40,000 – £45,000
JOB PURPOSE:
The Cardiff Dragons Franchise Director will provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and commercial management of the Cardiff Dragons netball franchise. Reporting into the CEO and working closely with the Head of Performance and Head Coach, the Franchise Director will be responsible for the efficient and effective management of the franchise, ensuring the delivery of world-class performance environments while driving commercial growth and brand development.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Strategic Leadership & Governance
Develop and implement the franchise’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with Wales Netball’s vision and national netball objectives.
Establish strong corporate governance structures, including financial planning, risk management, and compliance with relevant regulations.
Provide regular reports to the Franchise Board on performance, commercial development, and strategic progress.
Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical best practices within the franchise.
Ensure that the Franchise is meeting the NSL expected Operating Standard and exceeding these where possible.
Promote and manage Safeguarding, Equality and Inclusion across the franchise.
2. Commercial & Business Development
Lead all commercial aspects of the franchise, including revenue generation through ticket sales, sponsorships, merchandise, and corporate partnerships.
Develop and manage the franchise’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and long-term growth.
Identify new revenue opportunities and create innovative business strategies to drive financial success.
Oversee contract negotiations with sponsors, partners, and service providers.
3. Performance & Pathway
Support the Head of Performance and Head Coach in delivering a high-performance environment for NSL and Pathway athletes.
Manage player contracting, logistics, welfare, and support structures to ensure athlete well-being and retention.
4. Brand, Marketing & Fan Engagement
Oversee the marketing, communications, and events strategy to enhance the Cardiff Dragons’ brand profile.
Develop initiatives to increase fan engagement, grow match-day attendance, and expand digital presence.
Ensure alignment with key stakeholders, including Wales Netball, Sport Wales, and other national sporting bodies.
5. Stakeholder & Relationship Management
Build and nurture relationships with the NSL, NPL, England Netball, commercial partners, sponsors, media, and government agencies.
Collaborate with community and grassroots netball initiatives to enhance participation and support for the franchise.
Engage with high-profile stakeholders to enhance the visibility and influence of the Cardiff Dragons in the sporting landscape.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
1. Essential Qualifications & Experience
Proven experience in senior management within elite sport, professional franchises, or sports organisations.
Proven experience in project management and leading effective teams.
Strong commercial acumen with a track record of revenue generation and business growth.
Experience managing sponsorships, partnerships, and marketing strategies.
Knowledge of high-performance sports environments, including athlete welfare and talent development.
Strong leadership, governance, and financial management experience.
2. Key Skills & Attributes
Strategic thinker with the ability to drive long-term success.
Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
Strong negotiation, budget management, and financial planning capabilities.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
Passion for netball and women’s sport, with a commitment to its growth and success in Wales.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. Cardiff Dragons is committed to creating an inclusive culture, through fostering a diverse workforce.
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should send their CV and covering letter, demonstrating how you meet the essential and desirable criteria to info@CardiffDragons.com.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Sarah Boswell (Chief Executive Officer) by email: sarah.boswell@walesnetball.com.
Closing date: Monday 21st April at 5pm.
Interview date: Interviews will be conducted at Sport Wales, Cardiff, Tuesday 6th May.
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