Women’s Academy Emerging Talent Centre Player Development Lead

We are looking for an aspirational, enthusiastic and committed individual to lead & inspire an environment where any player is welcome, & possibility is encouraged via a systematic approach to identifying emerging talent. The successful candidate will support the ETC Centre Manager & wider ETC staff team in identifying, developing & transitioning top talent from the ETC environment into the BCWFC Club pathway and support the creation & adaptation of a long-term player development pathway model that prepares players for progression & success, in & outside of football. Key Responsibilities: Work with the Centre Manager, Coaching team & wider support staff to deliver an exceptional ETC programme that reflects the BCWFC club-wide purpose to nurture & develop home‑grown talent. Design, implement & regularly review a technical syllabus which aligns with the BCWFC values & mission, in consideration of modern player development strategies. Contribute to the annual ETC audit process alongside the Centre Manager and complete Pathway monitoring tasks in line with club policy & PGAAC regulations. Attend annual ETC‑focussed CPD events led by the FA & be accountable for sharing knowledge with the wider ETC staff team. Lead on communication to, & education for parents via online & in‑person meetings / workshops to enhance the player development experience (including an annual parent / player induction). Mentor ETC coaches & mentee coaches to develop them in line with the BCWFC Coaching Competency Framework. Lead on the implementation & use of the ETC Development Wheel to support player IDPs. Lead on the organisation of calendar updates for staff, players, parents & carers. In collaboration with the Centre Manager, ensure there is always sufficient staffing across the ETC age groups. Plan & deliver high‑quality pitch sessions & gameday coaching in line with the BCWFC Blueprint. Alongside the Centre Manager, ensure a well‑rounded games programme is fulfilled for all age groups. Provide input into selection processes & actively engage in exit strategies for released players. Attend all training sessions, fixtures & team events across the season for all age groups. Qualifications and Skills: ESSENTIAL Experience of working in a High-Performance football environment with youth players. Attention to detail in relation to the on & off field elements of coaching & performance. UEFA B Licence. FA Safeguarding Children. In‑date DBS (An enhanced DBS check will be carried out). FA Level 1 Introduction to First Aid in Football (IFAiF). Driving licence & the ability to travel independently. Strong understanding of safeguarding guidelines. Strong understanding of the FA rules & regulations in relation to Emerging Talent Centres, player recruitment & registration, & formal exit strategies. Be able to work as part of a team but also lead on own initiative. Have empathy, be supportive and encouraging to developing others, always working with integrity. Have an open / growth mindset. Enthusiastic and able to engage with academy/college student and staff. DESIRABLE FA Advanced Youth Award Emergency. First Aid in Football (EFAiF) Qualification. Experience of providing individualised feedback to players & staff (IDPs). Experience with programme audits & player registration platforms. Knowledge and experience of using the ETC Development Wheel Player Analysis Tool. How to Apply Applications are to be sent by email to careers@bcfc.co.uk. Applications should include a covering letter (max. 1 page) on the experience you have that makes you suitable for the role and should be accompanied by a current CV (max. 2 pages). Closing Date: Midday on 14th December 2025 Due to the high volume of applicants we receive, if you have not been contacted one month after applying, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. We reserve the right to bring forward the closing date of any of our job vacancies if we receive a suitable number of quality applications from which to make a shortlist. Therefore, we recommend that you apply as soon as possible rather than wait until the published closing date. Safeguarding Statement: Bristol City Football Club is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to endorse this commitment. Note: Due to the nature of the role, any job offer is dependent on a DBS check. All information will be kept by the Safeguarding Officer in strictest confidence. Equality Statement: The successful candidate must ensure a positive commitment towards equality and diversity by treating others fairly and not committing any form of direct or indirect discrimination, victimisation or harassment of any description and to promote positive working relationships between all internal and external stakeholders. #J-18808-Ljbffr