Chief Executive Officer

PERIDOT PARTNERS; Manchester; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A national sports governing body is seeking a dynamic CEO based in Manchester to lead its strategic vision and foster community engagement. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in strategic leadership and governance within a diverse organisation. If you are an inspiring leader who can build relationships and drive initiatives to grow our sport, we would love to hear from you.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic leadership, preferably in sport or a membership-based organisation.
• Proven skills in governance and diversifying income.
• Ability to unite and engage a diverse network.

Responsibilities

• Lead British Taekwondo into its next chapter.
• Work closely with the Board to set and deliver strategic vision.
• Unite and support a diverse network of clubs and partners.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Governance

Financial management

Organisational growth

Team-building

Engagement

Job description

Bring your vision, energy, and leadership to help British Taekwondo realise our ambition to drive growth, unite our community, and deliver our vision of being a world-leading, accessible and united sport.

Who we are:

British Taekwondo is the official National Governing Body for Taekwondo in the UK, recognised by World Taekwondo and the Olympic and Paralympic movement.

We represent a vibrant community of clubs, coaches, athletes, and volunteers who share a deep passion for our sport and martial arts. Our vision is to be a world-leading, accessible, and united organisation that welcomes people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Through our 2021–2031 Strategy for Growth, we’re developing clubs and coaches, increasing participation, creating clear pathways from grassroots to elite performance, and supporting success on the world stage.

Guided by our values of Integrity, Excellence, Inspiration, and Unity, we work to grow our sport, deliver value to our members, and nurture an inclusive, positive community.

We are separate from GB Taekwondo, which focuses on the elite arm of the sport and international competition.

About the role:

We are looking for an inspiring and dynamic CEO to lead British Taekwondo into its next chapter.

You’ll work closely with the Board to set and deliver our strategic vision, lead a small but talented team of staff and volunteers, and represent us nationally and internationally. Your role will combine operational leadership with a strong presence across our membership, ensuring excellent governance, financial sustainability, and a culture of collaboration and excellence.

You will unite and support a diverse network of clubs, from volunteer-led community groups to commercial academies, and expand opportunities for participation and performance.

Based in Manchester, you will be a visible, hands-on leader, building strong relationships with members, partners, and stakeholders, and driving initiatives that grow our sport and enhance the value we offer our community.

Who we’re looking for:

We want a senior leader who can bring vision, energy, and empathy to British Taekwondo. You’ll have experience in strategic leadership, organisational growth, and cultural change, ideally in sport or a membership-based organisation, and you’ll be as comfortable setting direction as you are rolling up your sleeves to make things happen.

You’ll bring:

Proven skills in governance, financial management, and diversifying income. The ability to engage, inspire, and unite people from grassroots members to strategic partners. Confidence in building high-performing, hybrid-working teams.

You don’t need to be an expert in Taekwondo or even sport, but you will need to understand how to lead a values-led organisation, create space for others to succeed, and build lasting relationships.

Our commitment to equality:

British Taekwondo is committed to creating an environment free from discrimination, bullying, harassment or victimisation, wherein everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

We actively encourage applications from people from underrepresented and minoritised communities, and those with a disability. We want our leadership to better reflect the community we serve and bring fresh perspectives to our work.

We aim to create a culture of diversity, providing a dynamic environment, whereby everyone is valued for their contribution and individuality.