Academy Manager

Swindon Town Football Club
Job Description for Academy Manager
Swindon Town are looking for an experienced and forward planning Academy Manager to join the team
Location: Swindon Town FC, The County Ground & Training facilities
Reports to: CEO
Department: Academy
Overview: Swindon Town FC, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Academy Manager to lead our Category 3 Academy. This is an exciting opportunity to take charge of the development of young football talent, managing all aspects of the academy's operations to
ensure a high-performance environment that aligns with the club's values and objectives. The Academy Manager will play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day activities of the academy, ensuring the highest standards of coaching, player development, and player
welfare.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Strategy
1. Lead and manage the Academy to ensure the development of young footballers in line with the club's ethos, vision, and long-term objectives.
2. Develop and implement the Academy's strategic plan, focusing on the progression of players through each age group and maximizing their potential.
3. Maintain compliance with the EFL's Academy Performance Plan and Category 3 standards, ensuring that the Academy meets all necessary regulations and guidelines.
4. Oversee the recruitment, development, and management of Academy staff, including coaches, performance analysts, physiotherapists, and support staff.
5. Act as the key liaison between the academy, first team, and senior management, ensuring smooth communication and player integration pathways.
 
Player Development & Pathway Management
1. Oversee the creation and monitoring of individualized player development plans (PDPs) for all academy players.
 2. Work closely with the first-team manager and coaching staff to identify talent for potential promotion to the senior squad.
3. Ensure the integration of sports science, data analytics, and performance monitoring into the player development process.
 
Coaching & Education
1. Lead the recruitment, mentoring, and development of a high-performing coaching team to deliver sessions that meet the standards of elite player development.
2. Oversee the coaching curriculum to ensure it aligns with the latest best practices, the club's tactical philosophy, and EFL standards.
3. Ensure that all players receive the necessary educational support, including both football-specific education and academic development.
4. Regularly assess and review coaching and player progress to ensure continuous improvement and high-quality training environments.
 
Welfare & Wellbeing
1. Ensure the welfare, mental health, and overall development of all academy players, providing appropriate support services such as psychological support, nutrition, and injury rehabilitation.
2. Develop strong relationships with parents and guardians, ensuring that communication about player development and well-being is clear and effective.
3. Promote the importance of life skills and personal development, preparing players for life both inside and outside football.
 
Compliance & Reporting
1. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of EFL and FA regulations and ensure the Academy operates in full compliance with all relevant policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, and player registration.
2. Produce and deliver regular reports on the Academy's progress, performance metrics, and key player developments to the Director of Football and senior management team.
3. Ensure all academy players are registered correctly, and maintain accurate and up-to-date records for players, staff, and academy activities.
 
Stakeholder Management & Community Engagement
 1. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including the EFL, local schools, and community organizations.
2. Represent the Academy at club events, open days, and within the local community to promote the club's youth development philosophy.
3. Ensure the academy plays a central role in the community, contributing to grassroots football and youth development initiatives.

Why Join Us?
As Academy Manager at Swindon Town FC you will play a critical role in shaping the future of the club and its young talent. You will have the chance to leave a lasting legacy in the development of players who could become stars in the first team and beyond. We offer a supportive and forward-thinking environment that encourages personal and professional development.

About The Candidate

Key Requirements:

• A strong background in football coaching and player development, with significant experience working within an academy environment.
•  UEFA A Licence (or equivalent) coaching qualification; further development qualifications will be advantageous.
•  In-depth understanding of the Academy Performance Plan (APP) and Category 3 Academy standards.
•  Proven track record of successfully managing and developing youth players, ideally in a Category 3 or higher academy environment.
•  Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage a diverse team of coaching, medical, and support staff.
•  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with players, parents, and senior staff effectively.
•  Knowledge of safeguarding and welfare policies, with a proactive approach to player welfare.
•  Ability to work under pressure, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

 
Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience managing or working within a Category 3 Academy.
•  FA Youth Modules (1, 2, and 3) qualifications.
•  Previous experience working in professional football, particularly within the EFL or other professional leagues.
•  A background in sports science, nutrition, or psychology would be advantageous.

About The Club

Policies & Ground Regulations - Swindon Town Football Club

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