Sports Development Officer:

Sports development officers (SDOs) make sure that people of all ages and ability 
have the opportunity to take part in sport, develop theirskills, and lead a healthy lifestyle.

They work with the local community, liaising with clubs and schools, as well as agencies such as the 
police and sports’ National Governing Bodies (NGBs). Officers also organise volunteers and help local 
groups to gain funding and grants. Community sports development officers encourage more people to take 
part in sport generally. For instance, they help to develop projects for groups such as school truants and 
young offenders.

Sport-specific development officers are linked to particular sports, such as rugby, athletics, or football and help to make sure that there are opportunities for people to participate and compete at the appropriate level.The job may also involve writing reports, administration and record-keeping, monitoring and evaluating projects, promotion and marketing.

SDOs usually work a 36-hour week, but this may vary from week to week, and the role may involve attending meetings and events at weekends and in the evening.

SDOs split their time between office work and attending venues, 
community groups, schools, clubs, and events. The job involves 
regular local travel and outdoor work. Salaries may range from 
around £16,700 to £40,000 a year.

Click here for more information about becoming a Sports 
Development Officer

Click here for case study of Senior sports Development Officer
(County Sports Partnership)