The IRFU are inviting applications for the role of Head of Digital Marketing and Analytics .
The successful candidate will lead the development of IRFU’s digital capabilities, empowering the Commercial, Marketing, and Communications functions through strategic use of data, analytics, and technology to drive engagement and create a sustainable digital revenue stream.
The position is being offered on a full time permanent basis (subject to 6 month probation). The role will be based in our Head Office in 10-12 Lansdowne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. The IRFU operate a hybrid policy with 2 days minimum required in the office every week, which may increase at busy times.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 7th June 2026 .
First round interviews are expected to take place on 11th June 2026.
The IRFU is an equal opportunities employer.
Role And purpose
To lead the development of IRFU’s digital capabilities, empowering the Commercial, Marketing, and Communications functions through strategic use of data, analytics, and technology to drive engagement and create a sustainable digital revenue stream.
Working relationships
Chief Commercial Officer
Director of Communications
Head of Commercial
IRFU SLT and staff
Communications staff
Commercial and Marketing staff
Context
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) is embarking on a transformative journey to enhance its digital capabilities across Commercial, Marketing, and Communications. This newly created role will unlock the power of data, analytics, and digital tools to enable and empower these functions. This is a highly commercial focused role that must deliver new revenue streams.
The successful candidate will oversee the shaping and delivering a digital strategy that drives audience growth outcoming in commercial growth.
The Head of Digital Marketing and Analytics will be responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive digital commercial growth strategy that aligns with IRFU’s strategic priorities.
This role will oversee growing the IRFU’s audience, deepening engagement and supporting and inputting into strategic initiatives across areas such as comms, and all commercial opportunities ticketing and sponsorship.
In addition, and to realise the above, this role will own the development and optimisation of IRFU’s data infrastructure and cross-functional digital growth initiatives to foster a culture of data-driven decision-making across the organisation.
This role requires a strategic thinker, proven leadership capabilities, with a combination of expertise in digital platforms, marketing, and commercial growth to deliver measurable impact on fan growth, engagement and revenue.
They will understand the power of storytelling and will input into and assist the Content team in using data and audience insights to tell those stories effectively.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Create and implement a Digital Marketing strategy aligned with the IRFU’s strategic objectives.
- Within that strategy, identify and prioritise opportunities to boost fan engagement (e.g., content, marketing) with the desired outcome of driving new revenue.
- Take ownership of the IRFU Supporters Club with a remit to revamp and relaunch Identify and execute pilot projects that demonstrate immediate value and build momentum, delivering quick wins.
- Collaborate with Commercial, Marketing, Communications, and Technology teams to ensure alignment and impact.
- Create and present digital sponsorship proposal alongside the Commercial team
- Provide strategic guidance on end-to-end data processes to streamline data collection, analysis, and reporting to support decision-making across departments.
- Provide strategic ownership on platform and software enhancements (digital products, data infrastructure, email/communication tools), identifying needs and priorities for development, while implementation and day-to-day management remain with IT.
KEY QUALITIES
- Proven results in:
- Developing and implementing digital growth strategies
- Delivering strategic campaigns and engagement initiatives
- Utilising data to drive customer engagement and, ultimately, commercial growth
- Analysing and utilising customer data to drive KPIs
- Reporting roadmap and progress to senior leadership
- Managing cross-functional projects and stakeholder engagement
- Pitching digital partnerships & sponsorship proposals
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
- Deep understanding of digital platforms, data systems, and marketing technologies.
- Outstanding and demonstrated leadership in building and managing high-performing teams.
- Ability to build trust and effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, Data Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- Strong understanding of data analytics and customer engagement.
- 3+ years of experience in digital, marketing, and communications roles.
- 3+ years in a senior leadership role, managing teams and strategic initiatives.
- Professional certifications in Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, or related disciplines are a plus.
- Track record in presenting and selling digital partnerships
Please note that the above responsibilities are not exhaustive and may be amended or added to from time to time in line with the needs of the role and the organisation
The successful candidate must be eligible to live and work in Ireland.
Our benefits include:
22 days basic annual leave entitlement
Employer pension contribution from 1st day
Family friendly policiesHealth insurance from 1st day (subject to BIK)
Car and fuel card (subject to BIK)
Birthday leave
Self care leave
Education assistance Programme
IRFU Group Scheme – discounts from brands and retailers
Wellness initiatives, including self care leave
Bike to work scheme
Respect Excellence Accountability Integrity
