Kerry GAA to recruit full-time commercial director to ‘generate substantial revenue growth'

Irish Independent

27-05-2025

On Tuesday, Kerry GAA publicly advertised the new position, with Red Chair Recruitment in Killarney handling the process.
The job specification says the commercial director will 'create and implement a commercial strategy that focuses on new fundraising models, including grant applications as well as identifying, developing and implementing new commercial opportunities to generate substantial revenue growth.'
The chosen candidate will work alongside the Kerry County Board Executive, and be responsible for asset management and new developments at the Centre of Excellence in Currans and other new developments across the county to ensure best outcome for Kerry GAA.
Kerry GAA has an annual turnover of several million euros, with overall income of €4.6m in 2024 and total expenditure of €4.1m the same year.
Commercial income accounted for almost €1.3m of that total. Fundraising income in 2024 accounted for just €148,000 – down from €401,000 the year before, although that was because of €245,000 for the player holiday fund in 2023 because Kerry reached the All-Ireland final.
In his report to convention last December, Kerry GAA treasurer Paudie Healy told delegates: 'Our commercial income for 2024 has reached an impressive €1,286,676, marking a significant increase of 11.8% over 2023. This robust growth reflects the strength of our partnerships and the unwavering support of our sponsors.
'While we celebrate these achievements, it is imperative that we intensify efforts to grow commercial income on all fronts – locally, nationally, and internationally. As the demands on our resources and facilities will continue to expand, Kerry GAA must remain a trailblazer on and off the field. To ensure we maintain our leadership and drive future success, we must aggressively pursue new opportunities, strengthen existing partnerships, and extend our reach globally.'
Mr Healy also told delegates that while his 'commitment to delivering the best financial management practices for Kerry GAA remains unwavering, it must be noted, as operational demands increase, so too will the need for skilled personnel and additional resources. These efforts will ensure that Kerry GAA continues to uphold best practices in financial governance.'
Kerry GAA's full-time secretary, Peter Twiss, echoed Mr Healy's comment when Mr Twiss told delegated: 'Fundraising and commercial activity continues to play an ever-increasing role in the workings of the Board. As will be evident in our County Strategic Plan, the need to take on a full-time commercial person would, I believe, be a necessary next step.
'How this works alongside a voluntary led Board will require some thought, but it is obvious that the demands on the volunteer in this most important of areas is too much and very dependent on people having time and skill to build up a coherent and effective structure.'
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It would seem that the new full-time commercial director will be tasked with taking some of the strain off the treasurer and finance committee with regard to increasing revenue through commercial partnerships, sponsorship and fundraising.
Speaking on the recruitment process, Kerry GAA chairperson Patrick O'Sullivan said: 'This is an exciting opportunity for someone to shape the future of Kerry GAA. We are seeking someone to work alongside our County Board to manage asset development and new projects at our Centre of Excellence and other locations across the county.
'We are looking for someone who is motivated and passionate about Kerry GAA with entrepreneurial leadership, organisational skills, and knowledge in business, finance, fundraising, and sponsorship.
'We see this role as an opportunity for Kerry GAA to increase commercial activities to generate substantial revenue growth, improve facilities and resources, and integrate the Kerry Ladies Football Association and Kerry Camogie. For the right person, this is an opportunity not only play a part in the future of Kerry GAA across the county but to help shape it.'
The position is for a fixed-term contract of three years, with the remuneration package offering a base salary, performance related commission, pension, company car, and paid expenses and flexible working options.
Those wishing to apply can do so here: