Bowls Scotland - National Development Officer

Triathlonscotland; Ayr; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent sports organization in Scotland is looking for a National Development Officer to support and champion local clubs across the North and East regions. This role involves managing multiple projects like BowlsMark, improving governance, and growing membership. The ideal candidate should possess strong organizational and communication skills, alongside experience in sports club development. With a flexible working policy, this position allows a combination of home and office work, making it ideal for those passionate about grassroots sports.

Qualifications

• Experience in supporting and developing sports clubs.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of Lawn Bowls is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with clubs and local authorities.
• Deliver programmes that improve club membership and governance.
• Lead key programmes like BowlsMark and Try Bowls.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Relationship building

Project management

Job description

Bowls Scotland - National Development Officer

Bowls Scotland is proud to be one of the largest participation sports in Scotland, with over 800 clubs and 48,000 members forming the backbone of our game. We are seeking a Development Officer to champion and support our clubs in either the North or East region.

Our clubs are the lifeblood of bowls. This role is about helping them thrive - creating welcoming environments, growing membership, supporting volunteers, and ensuring strong governance. You’ll work closely with clubs, local authorities, and partners to deliver programmes that make a real difference at grassroots level.

We are looking for a passionate and self‑motivated individual who believes in the power of clubs and community sport. You should have experience in supporting and developing sports clubs and be confident managing multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment. Strong organisational and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to build relationships and inspire volunteers. Knowledge of Lawn Bowls is an advantage, but what matters most is your commitment to helping clubs succeed.

In this role, you’ll work hands‑on with clubs to strengthen their management and development plans. You’ll lead key programmes like BowlsMark, our accreditation scheme, and Try Bowls, our recruitment initiative, while helping clubs grow membership, support volunteers, and create inclusive environments. By partnering with Bowls Scotland colleagues and local agencies, you’ll play a vital role in driving participation and keeping clubs at the heart of our sport.

This flexible role involves travel across the region and reports to the National Development Manager. If you’re passionate about grassroots sport and want to make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Bowls Scotland has a set of values, outlined within our Corporate Strategy and available on our website. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace where we can embrace and value individuality. We are committed to employment practices that promote diversity and inclusion and encourage all applications regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief.

Location: National Centre for Bowling, Northfield, Ayr. (Bowls Scotland operates a flexible working policy; therefore, a combination of home and office working will be considered for this role).

Closing Date for Applications: Midday, Monday 19th January 2026

Face to Face interviews: Wednesday 28th January 2026