Jonathan Hill to step down as FAI chief executive

The Football Association of Ireland has announced that chief executive Jonathan Hill is to depart his role at the end of April.

Hill joined the organisation in November 2020 and oversaw the Republic of Ireland women's team qualifying for the World Cup for the first time. However, a shadow was cast over his tenure following revelations regarding payments in lieu of holidays not taken while the role of permant manager of the senior men's team remains vacant, despite Stephen Kenny leaving upon the expiry of his contract in November.

Tony Keohane, independent chair of the FAI board, said: "Jonathan joined the association during a difficult time in the heart of the Covid-19 pandemic and helped the association navigate an extremely challenging period. On behalf of the board of the FAI, I want to thank Jonathan for his hard work and dedication over the past number of years and wish him well for the future."

Hill will leave on April 30, with an interim CEO to be appointed. The FAI say that a "structured search" for a new full-time appointee will follow.