The Scottish FA has confirmed Jon Moss has left its ranks after less than two months for a fresh deployment in a different association.
Moss, 53, was appointed the SFA's first VAR manager at the beginning of August 2024 following his extensive experience around England's top divisions. It's yet to be confirmed where Moss will be moving next, though the SFA's Head of Refereeing, Willie Collum, announced it will be in "a new continent".
Sunderland native Moss first started officiating in the English Football League as an assistant in 2003, making his Premier League debut in 2011 before retiring from refereeing 11 years later. And after barely a month of working in the Scottish football system, he's poised for another change of scenery.
“I have loved my short time at the Scottish FA and already I believe clubs, players, managers and supporters see a significant improvement under Willie’s leadership," said Moss in a statement. "Even though my time in Scotland has been short and sweet, I have loved working with the Scottish FA and the VAR team at Clydesdale House.
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“I leave with only fond memories and a wish that I could have stayed for longer but this is an opportunity of a lifetime and I look forward to the new challenge, better equipped for it by my experience in Scotland.”
Collum said he was "obviously disappointed to be losing Jon so quickly" but sympathised with his former colleague. He described Moss' impending move as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" and confirmed the SFA is already working to recruit his replacement.
He also commented that Moss' recruitment elsewhere was a measure of the respect he commands in the refereeing industry. The veteran was hired to streamline the VAR issues affecting Scottish football in recent times, and Collum said his contributions had "already strengthened our operation."
After ceasing his duties as a Premier League referee two years ago, Moss took on a new role of Select Group 1 Manager at the PGMOL. He held that position until March 2024 when he left amid reports he'd fallen out with other officials.
He'll make a completely fresh start in his new job abroad, as Collum wished him "the very best on his new adventure."
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