The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) are delighted to confirm the appointment of Paula Brady as Head of Refereeing.

In this strategic role, Brady will lead refereeing across all levels – from grassroots to League of Ireland through to international – driving strategy, development, and performance in line with the FAI’s Football Pathways Plan and the 2026-2029 FAI Strategy.

Brady brings a combination of high-level refereeing experience and senior business leadership, having held senior roles at NatWest and Ulster Bank. She has qualifications in Culture and Ethical Behaviour, Learning and Development (CIPD), Sports Psychology, Executive Coaching and a Bachelor of Business with First Class Honours. 

A former international FIFA and League of Ireland referee who officiated three Women’s FAI Cup Finals, Brady was honoured in 2025 at the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division Awards for Services to Women’s Football and was a graduate of the FAI / Sport Ireland Mentoring & Coaching Programme. 

Brady has remained heavily involved in refereeing through roles in development, education, governance and high performance, including serving as an Observer on the National Referee Panel, Referee Instructor & Talent Coach, National Referee Committee member, International & High Performance Committee member and FAI Disciplinary Panel Member.

Speaking about her appointment, Brady said: “I'm delighted to take on this role as it is the perfect opportunity to bring together my refereeing and business leadership experience to play a part in supporting the development of Irish football.

“I've always been passionate about creating environments where everyone reaches their full potential, whatever their goal, and that is something I will strive to do in this role. I'm excited to provide more opportunities and support for our referees to help drive Irish football forward.”

FAI Director of Football John Martin said: “The appointment of Paula as our Head of Refereeing is a clear sign of our ambition to elevate standards in refereeing and ensure that it plays a key part in our development of Irish football.

“With the roll-out of the new FAI Strategy and a modern way of developing football, it is essential that we put a greater emphasis on participation growth and providing clear pathways for progression.

"Paula is a welcome addition to our Football Leadership Team."