Trustee with Corporate Structure & Governance Experience

Passionate about sport and the power of inclusion. Use your skills to support Deaf Sports Ireland!

About Deaf Sports Ireland

Deaf Sports Ireland are an unincorporated body that is in the process of becoming a registered charity. 
Deaf Sports Ireland is the national governing body for Deaf and Hard of Hearing sports in Ireland. We exist to create equal opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people to participate, compete, and excel in sport at all levels — from grassroots to elite international competition. We are the official representative for Ireland at the Deaflympics, working to ensure inclusion, accessibility, and recognition of Deaf athletes on the national and international stage.

Our vision is a sporting community where Deaf and Hard of Hearing people can thrive, break down barriers, and be celebrated for their achievements.

The Role

 We are seeking to appoint a new board member with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Business development & partnerships
• Fundraising and sponsorship
• Communications

This board member will bring strategic insight to help DSI grow its profile, strengthen relationships with stakeholders and partners, and diversify funding streams to support the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute actively to the board’s strategic discussions, ensuring DSI continues to develop as a leading advocate for Deaf sport in Ireland.
• Advise on strategies to raise the profile of DSI and Deaf athletes nationally.
• Support the development of sustainable income streams through fundraising, sponsorships, and commercial opportunities.
• Champion inclusion and accessibility, particularly in the context of Deaf and disability sport.
• Act as an ambassador for DSI, helping to build partnerships across sport, business, and the wider community.

Person Specification

We welcome applicants who can demonstrate:

• Professional experience in marketing, fundraising or business development.
• A strong network that could support DSI in sponsorship, partnerships, or fundraising.
• Experience or understanding of the disability or inclusion sector is highly desirable.
• A genuine passion for sport and commitment to the values of equality, inclusion, and accessibility.
• Previous board experience is an advantage but not essential.

Commitment

• Attendance at approximately 10 board meetings per year (typically evenings and online but occasionally in person at Deaf Village, Cabra.
• Willingness to contribute time and expertise between meetings, where relevant, to support DSI’s work.
• Board members serve on a voluntary basis.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to make a tangible difference to the lives of Deaf and Hard of Hearing athletes across Ireland.
• A chance to shape the future of Deaf sport on a national and international stage.
• Experience of governance within a dynamic, values-led organisation.