The FAI has confirmed the appointment of Paula Brady as its new Head of Refereeing.
In the strategic role, Brady will oversee refereeing across all levels of the game — from grassroots football and the League of Ireland to the international stage — helping to drive development and performance in line with the FAI’s Football Pathways Plan and the governing body’s 2026–2029 strategy.
Brady brings extensive experience from both football and business leadership. Alongside her refereeing career, which saw her serve as an international FIFA and League of Ireland referee, she also held senior roles with NatWest and Ulster Bank.
She officiated three Women’s FAI Cup Finals and earlier this year was recognised at the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division Awards for her services to women’s football.
Brady has continued to play a significant role in referee development and governance in recent years, serving as an Observer on the National Referee Panel, a Referee Instructor and Talent Coach, a National Referee Committee member, an International and High Performance Committee member, and a member of the FAI Disciplinary Panel.
Speaking following her appointment, Brady said she was excited by the opportunity to combine her experience in refereeing and business leadership to support the continued development of Irish football.
“I’ve always been passionate about creating environments where everyone reaches their full potential, whatever their goal, and that is something I will strive to do in this role,” she said.
“I’m excited to provide more opportunities and support for our referees to help drive Irish football forward.”
FAI Director of Football John Martin described the appointment as an important step in raising standards within refereeing.
“The appointment of Paula as our Head of Refereeing is a clear sign of our ambition to elevate standards in refereeing and ensure that it plays a key part in our development of Irish football,” he said.
“With the roll-out of the new FAI Strategy and a modern way of developing football, it is essential that we put a greater emphasis on participation growth and providing clear pathways for progression.
“Paula is a welcome addition to our Football Leadership Team.”
Paula is a long-time friend of Sport for Business, and we wish her the very best of luck in the new role.
If you would like to join the FAI as a player in the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the conversation happening every day around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
Image Credit: FAI
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