The IIHF, founded on 15 May 1908 in Paris, France, is the governing body of international ice hockey. The IIHF features 82 member associations, each of which is the national governing body of the sport in its nation. Besides controlling the international rulebook, processing international player transfers, and dictating officiating guidelines, the IIHF runs numerous development programs designed to bring hockey to a broader population. The IIHF also presides over ice hockey in the Olympic Games, and over the IIHF World Championships at all levels, men, women, men under-20, men under-18 and women under-18. Each season, the IIHF, in collaboration with its local organising committees, runs around 25 different World Championships in the five different categories.

Head of Officiating (f/m/d) 100%

As Head of Officiating, you will play a crucial role in developing and leading the IIHF Officiating program. You will develop and implement strategic plans, collaborate with Game Officials, and work closely with various stakeholders to improve the level of officiating internationally. To complete our team, which already has in-depth knowledge of European ice hockey, we are looking for an expert in North American officiating to strengthen the IIHF Sport Department. The Head of Officiating reports directly to the Sport Director and executes the following tasks: 

Key Responsibilities
 

• Lead the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the IIHF Officiating Section
• ​Enhance officiating standards, consistency, and excellence across all IIHF tournaments
• Develop top-tier referees and linesmen from across the IIHF's global network
• Foster greater integration and collaboration between European and North American officiating styles and practices
• Oversee official assignments for IIHF competitions in close collaboration with other IIHF Sport Department Staff
• Expand the IIHF’s officiating development programs, with a focus on global outreach, education, and mentorship
• Represent the IIHF at international events, seminars, and working groups related to officiating and rule development 

Skills and Qualifications
 

• 10+ years of experience in elite-level officiating, officiating supervision, and officiating program management
• ​Experience working within the international, professional, and amateur game
• NHL/AHL experience is a must, additional experience in IIHF Top Events or European elite-leagues strongly preferred
• Experience of working within an MNA are a plus 
• Deep understanding of the technical, cultural, and strategic differences between North American and European officiating programmes
• Understanding of structural and operational methods of both professional hockey leagues and federations across the globe
• Proven leadership and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments
• Strong organizational and communication abilities, with experience in leading cross-cultural teams
• Excellent command of English; additional languages are a plus
• Willingness to relocate to Switzerland and travel internationally as required 

Benefits

We offer you exciting and varied tasks with independence and responsibility. In addition, a motivated team and attractive employment conditions await you. In this function there is the possibility to work remotely by arrangement. 

The IIHF would like this position to start as soon as possible. 

To apply for this position, please send your CV, reference letters and diplomas as a PDF file to job@iihf.com.

Contact

International Ice Hockey Federation
Michael Schön
Brandschenkestrasse 50
8027 Zürich, Switzerland
Tel: +41 44 562 22 27
E-Mail: job@iihf.com