Head of Officiating / Head of Officiating

About the IIHF

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), established on May 15, 1908, in Paris, France, serves as the governing body for international ice hockey. With 84 member associations, each representing the national governing body of the sport in its respective country, the IIHF oversees numerous vital functions. These include managing the international rulebook, processing player transfers, and dictating officiating guidelines. Moreover, the IIHF implements various development programs aimed at expanding the sport's reach globally.

The IIHF also plays a pivotal role in ice hockey at the Olympic Games and presides over the IIHF World Championships across all levels: men, women, juniors under-20, juniors under-18, and women under-18. Each season, in collaboration with local organizing committees, the IIHF conducts approximately 25 different World Championships across five categories.

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

We are seeking a dynamic Head of Officiating to join our team and play a crucial role in developing and leading the IIHF Officiating Program. This position requires envisioning and implementing strategic plans while collaborating with Game Officials and various stakeholders to elevate the standard of officiating internationally. To complement our well-versed team in European ice hockey, we are looking for an expert in North American officiating to bolster the IIHF Sport Department. The Head of Officiating will report directly to the Sport Director and take on the following key responsibilities:

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 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, focusing 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 in international, professional, and amateur games.
• NHL/AHL experience is required; additional experience in IIHF Top Events or European elite leagues is strongly preferred.
• Experience working within a Member National Association (MNA) is a plus.
• Deep understanding of the technical, cultural, and strategic differences between North American and European officiating programs.
• Familiarity with the structural and operational methods of professional hockey leagues and federations worldwide.
• 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; knowledge of additional languages is an advantage.
• Willingness to relocate to Switzerland and travel internationally as required.

Benefits

We offer an exciting and varied range of tasks along with independence and responsibility. You will join a motivated team and enjoy attractive employment conditions. This position allows for the possibility of remote work by arrangement.

The IIHF is eager to welcome a new Head of Officiating as soon as possible. Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.