Two of Wales’ most recognisable brands have joined forces with the shared goal of securing Welsh football’s latest signing, this time off the pitch, following the national team’s first appearance at a World Cup tournament in 65 years.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has retained leading UK recruiter Acorn as it looks to appoint a new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The role will be key in driving the operational performance of the association forward and will be responsible for measuring, reviewing and improving processes within the operations area to ensure the FAW is working efficiently and providing the best possible service.

Working alongside the Chief Executive, the successful candidate will take overall responsibility for the operations of all football in Wales including the FAW domestic leagues, all of its international squads, and across all compliance areas including the new football services centre, its national training centres and other key projects.

The Football Association of Wales Chief Executive, Noel Mooney, said:

“Welsh football has made such great progress in recent years and we need now to keep that momentum going. It’s been another remarkable year during which the national squad has taken another significant step onto the world footballing stage, and we’ve got a great team here at the FAW dedicated to keeping that ball rolling.”

“So, we’re looking now to find someone who can help us channel all that energy and passion into the programmes and services we deliver on behalf of the fans and clubs we represent across Wales. As we look towards another exciting year for Welsh football, the first thing on our agenda for 2023 will be to welcome a new COO to the FAW with the skills and passion to lead us towards more greatness in the future.”

Acorn is one of Britain’s leading recruiters and provides award-winning temporary and permanent recruitment solutions through a network of more than 30 branches and specialist divisions based throughout the UK.

It is also deeply committed to supporting further development within the sporting and leisure sector across Wales, having recently also renewed its partnership with the Welsh Sports Association (WSA) to provide ongoing support for it members until at least 2024.

Principal Consultant for Acorn’s Executive Search Team, Luke Robért, said of its work with the FAW:

‘‘We’re absolutely delighted to be working with the Football Association of Wales at what is a pivotal moment in so many ways. Acorn has years of experience in supporting organisations across the board to find the skills they require to take them to that next level, and we’re confident that together we will find the right person to support the FAW moving forward too.”

“We are looking for passionate candidates who believe in the FAW and every potential there is for the future, and given all of its successes in recent years. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the right person to make a real difference at what is a crucial time for Welsh football, and we’re keen to hear from anyone who believes they’ve got what it takes to do just that as the new Chief Operating Officer for the FAW in Wales.”

Applications for the role of Chief Operating Officer at the Football Association of Wales close on January 22nd 2023, with more information the role and how to apply is available here: FAW COO