Head of Sports Science

**Job Title: Head of Sports Science**

**Department: Sports Science**

**Reporting: Head of First Team Performance**

**Location: Training Ground - Jersey Road**

**Salary: Competitive**

Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first, we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable, we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development, inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.

Being progressive, humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.

We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas, solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.

We play in a brand-new stadium, 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.

We will never forget where we have come from, but we are excited about the future that lies ahead.

Come join us.

**Inclusion Statement**

**Safeguarding Statement**

**The Role of Head of Sports Science**

Brentford FC has an exciting opportunity for Head of Sports Science.

As part of the Performance Executive Group (PEG), the Head of Sports Science will play a pivotal part in delivering world-class performance standards to Brentford FC. They will lead on the Sports Science Strategy, in line with the Club’s performance objectives, and report into the Head of First Team Performance.

**Main Accountabilities**
- **Strategic Leadership**: Develop and implement a comprehensive sports science strategy aligned with the Club’s performance objectives, integrating cutting-edge methodologies practically, to enhance player performance and minimise injury risk.
- **Management of Sports Science Team**: Provide leadership and direction to the sports science team, including strength and conditioning coaches, sports scientists, data scientists, nutritionists and performance consultants, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement. This should include setting key performance objectives for all Sports Science staff that report into the Head of Sports Science and managing appraisals in line with the club policy at that time. Line-manage Head of Academy Sports Science and strategically add value to the Academy's Sports Science strategies.
- **Planning, Monitoring and Data Collection**: Lead on the collection and analysis of player data, utilising advanced sports science technologies and methodologies to monitor training loads, fatigue levels, and physical performance metrics. As part of the PEG, provide all the key metrics and information to feed into the optimal first team training schedule that the Head of First Team Performance will lead on.
- **Individualised Training Programmes**: Lead the performance staff to design and implement individualized strength and conditioning training programmes tailored to the specific needs and goals of each player, optimising physical preparation for training and match performance. Design and oversee clear metrics to monitor and evaluate those programmes in collaboration with PEG.
- **Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation**: Work collaboratively with PEG and the medical team to develop and implement injury prevention strategies and rehabilitation protocols, ensuring the timely and effective return of injured players to full fitness.
- **Nutrition and Recovery Strategies**: Provide guidance and support to key performance staff regarding nutrition, hydration, and recovery strategies, optimising recovery between training sessions and matches to maximise performance and minimise the risk of injury.
- **Sports Science Research and Innovation**: Stay abreast of the latest developments in sports science research and technology, integrating innovative methodologies and practices into the club's sports science programme to maintain a competitive edge. In tandem with the Performance Director, facilitate any performance-based research projects, utilising the Brentford research centre to underpin practice and constantly seek growth and improvement.
- **Education and Professional Development**: Facilitate ongoing education and professional development opportunities for sports science staff and players, promoting a culture of continuous learning and growth.
- **International Players**: Work collaboratively with PEG, other Club staff and National Federations where appropriate to co-manage international players in the first team squad.
- To work with the Safeguarding Team to promote safe working practice within your department and those you manage.
- To ensure that any concerns you observe, or are raised with you in your role, are shared with the Safeguarding Team through appropriate channels.
- Ensure any contact and interaction with players complies with the Club’s Safeguarding Policy and that any concerns are shared with the Safeguarding Team throu