Development Director

Organisation: British Judo Association
Salary: £61,000 – £75,000
Location: Remote base with regular office presence
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 17 July 2026
Job Description: Are you a strategic leader with a passion for organisational growth, stakeholder engagement, and developing high-performing teams? British Judo are seeking an exceptional Development Director to lead the next phase of growth for one of the country’s most inclusive and values-driven Olympic and Paralympic sports. This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in growing participation in judo across the UK while supporting pathways that help athletes achieve success on the world, Olympic and Paralympic stage.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CEO and forming part of the Senior Leadership Team, the Development Director will lead the delivery of key strategic objectives focused on increasing participation, strengthening club and regional development, and supporting pathways to elite performance.

This is a high-profile leadership role requiring exceptional stakeholder management skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire and influence both internally and externally. You will work closely with funding partners, clubs, volunteers, and senior colleagues to ensure programmes are impactful, innovative, and aligned with the organisation’s long-term vision.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the Growth of Judo:

- Develop and deliver strategies to increase participation and membership across all levels of the sport
- Support clubs and regional Areas to strengthen recruitment, retention, and long-term sustainability
- Lead national and regional campaigns that promote the benefits and accessibility of judo
- Help create a fair and inclusive development offer for all affiliated clubs and providers

Drive Strategic Leadership:
- Contribute as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team
Support delivery of the Association’s strategic plan and long-term vision
- Use insight, research, and data to inform decision-making and improve performance
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performing organisational culture

Build Strong Partnerships:
- Maintain excellent relationships with funding partners and external stakeholders
- Work collaboratively across departments including performance, technical development, communications, and operations
- Act as an ambassador for British Judo and promote the values of respect, courage, friendship, and inclusion.

Essential Skills & Experience
- Significant senior leadership and management experience
- Strong strategic planning and operational delivery skills
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication abilities
- Experience leading teams and motivating staff and volunteers
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver to deadlines
- Strong presentation and influencing skills
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Full UK driving licence
How to apply: To apply, please submit: - A short covering statement outlining your interest in the role stating how you meet the criteria outlined in the candidate pack and why British Judo is of interest to you - Your current CV Please email: hr@britishjudo.org.uk First Round Interviews will take place on week commencing 3rd August with a final interview and Assessment Day taking place on a date to be confirmed. If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact Andrew Scoular – Chief Executive – andrew.scoular@britishjudo.org.uk To download the Candidate Pack, head over to http://www.britishjudo.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Development-Director-Candidate-Pack-1.pdf