Sports Facility Development Manager Job Vacancy in Bwiam, Gambia – Sports Infrastructure & Development

Job Description

Position:Sports Facility Development Manager

Company:FIFA Foundation

Location:Bwiam, Gambia

Experience:Minimum 7 years in sports infrastructure development, project management, or related field

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Sports Management, Project Management, or related field; Master’s degree preferred

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Sports Infrastructure & Development

Department:Infrastructure Development

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

The FIFA Foundation is an independent entity established by FIFA with a mission to promote positive social change around the world through football. Operating in over 200 countries and territories, the Foundation implements programs that leverage the power of football to address social challenges, promote education, health, peace, and inclusion. In The Gambia, the FIFA Foundation has been actively engaged in community development initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and infrastructure projects aimed at creating sustainable sports ecosystems. Our commitment to Gambia includes developing world-class sports facilities that serve as community hubs, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide opportunities for talent development. As we expand our footprint in West Africa, we are seeking dedicated professionals who share our vision of using sports as a catalyst for positive social transformation and community development.

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Sports Facility Development Manager to lead the planning, design, construction, and management of new sports infrastructure projects in Bwiam, Gambia. This role represents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of sports facilities that will serve communities across the region. The successful candidate will oversee all phases of facility development, from initial concept and design through construction and operational handover. This position requires a unique blend of technical expertise in construction management, understanding of sports facility requirements, and community engagement skills. The Sports Facility Development Manager will work closely with local authorities, contractors, community stakeholders, and international partners to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role is critical to our mission of creating sustainable sports infrastructure that benefits communities for generations to come. For more Gambia Jobs and Career Opportunities in Gambia, visit our partner site. https://gambiajobsearch.com

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end management of sports facility development projects in Bwiam and surrounding regions
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and risk management strategies
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants throughout design and construction phases
• Ensure all facilities meet international standards for sports infrastructure, safety, and accessibility
• Manage stakeholder relationships with local government authorities, community leaders, and sports organizations
• Implement sustainable construction practices and environmentally friendly design principles
• Monitor project progress, prepare regular status reports, and address any issues or delays proactively
• Develop operational plans for completed facilities, including maintenance schedules and management protocols
• Ensure compliance with local building codes, regulations, and FIFA quality standards
• Coordinate community engagement activities to ensure local needs are incorporated into facility designs

Required Skills

• Expertise in project management methodologies and construction management principles
• Strong technical knowledge of sports facility design, construction materials, and infrastructure requirements
• Excellent stakeholder management and community engagement abilities
• Proficiency in budget development, financial management, and cost control
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to navigate complex regulatory environments
• Effective communication skills for working with diverse teams and stakeholders
• Knowledge of sustainable construction practices and green building standards
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail
• Cultural sensitivity and experience working in international development contexts
• Proficiency in project management software and Microsoft Office applications

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Sports Management, Project Management, Architecture, or a related field is required for this position. A Master’s degree in Project Management, Sports Facility Management, or International Development is strongly preferred. Additional certifications in Project Management (PMP, PRINCE2), Construction Management, or Sports Facility Operations will be considered significant advantages. Candidates should demonstrate continuous professional development in areas relevant to sports infrastructure and international development projects.

Experience

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in sports facility development, construction project management, or related infrastructure development roles. This should include at least 3 years of experience managing large-scale construction projects in an international context, preferably in Africa. Experience working with international sports organizations, development agencies, or non-governmental organizations is highly desirable. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record of successfully delivering complex infrastructure projects on time and within budget. Experience in community engagement, stakeholder management, and working with local government authorities in The Gambia or similar contexts will be particularly valuable.

Benefits

• Competitive international salary package with performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents
• Professional development opportunities and training programs
• Generous annual leave allowance with additional time off for public holidays
• Housing allowance or accommodation provided for international candidates
• Travel insurance and relocation assistance if applicable
• Opportunities for international career advancement within the FIFA Foundation network
• Contribution to pension or retirement savings plan
• Access to FIFA Foundation events, conferences, and networking opportunities

Training

• Comprehensive onboarding program covering FIFA Foundation policies and procedures
• Specialized training in sports facility standards and FIFA quality programs
• Project management certification opportunities (PMP, PRINCE2, etc.)
• Regular professional development workshops and seminars
• Cross-cultural communication and community engagement training
• Technical training on the latest sports facility technologies and sustainable practices
• Leadership development programs for managerial growth
• Safety and compliance training specific to construction and facility management

Working Environment

The Sports Facility Development Manager will work in a dynamic, multicultural environment that combines office-based planning with extensive field work at project sites. The role involves regular travel to construction sites in Bwiam and potentially other locations in The Gambia. The working environment emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and commitment to community development. Team members come from diverse professional backgrounds and nationalities, creating a rich learning environment. The FIFA Foundation promotes a culture of excellence, integrity, and social responsibility, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. This position offers the unique opportunity to work at the intersection of sports, development, and community transformation, creating lasting impact through physical infrastructure.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive CV and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience relevant to this position. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for initial screening interviews, followed by technical assessments and final interviews with senior management. The selection process may include practical exercises related to project planning and problem-solving. We encourage applications from qualified Gambian nationals and international candidates with relevant experience. For additional Jobs in Gambia and Employment in Gambia opportunities, please visit our regional partner. https://www.namibiajobsearch.com/

Equal Opportunity Statement

The FIFA Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by Gambian law and international standards. We make hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. The Foundation is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all employees and will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.