Jobs

Independent Non-Executive Director - Professional Game Academy Audit Company

Application Deadline: April 04, 2026

Department: Professional Game Academy Audit Company

Employment Type: Fixed Term - Part Time

Location: London, UK

Workplace type: Onsite

Compensation: £500 / day

Documents: Role description - pgaac non-executive director.pdf

English professional football has over recent years made considerable investment into elite talent pathways. Clubs and other entities running elite talent programmes for young players must comply with advanced and evolving regulatory frameworks. These frameworks have been developed to deliver on English football’s shared mission of developing more and better homegrown players, and compliance with them is a condition of receiving central funding to support elite youth development.

On the boys’ side and as part of the Elite Player Performance Plan  — the Professional Game’s national strategy for developing male youth footballers in England — professional club Academies are licensed and placed into one of four categories (Category 1 to 4). These categories are based on a combination of factors, including investment levels, facilities, staffing, and the quality of provision across key multidisciplinary areas. We are currently reviewing the audit and assessment framework used on the boys’ side. 

On the girls’ side, the female talent pathway aims to support the development of more and better home-grown players through two key programmes , with around 60 licensed Emerging Talent Centres for girls aged eight to 16 and 20 licensed Professional Game Academies delivering training and development to girls aged 14 to 21. It is likely that, as the girls’ game continues to grow, the licensing requirements for both Emerging Talent Centres and Professional Game Academies – together with the way in which PGAAC assesses them – will continue to evolve.

To ensure licensing conditons are complied with and to support the continual raising of standards in both sides of elite player development, an independent standards organisation has been developed, mandated by the professional game, to monitor safety, compliance and the quality of work being delivered across both the male and female environments.  

The Professional Game Academy Audit Company (PGAAC), is the independent standards organisation established by The FA, the Premier League and the EFL, oversees a multidisciplinary assessment of all licensed training programmes. For example in boys’ Academies, the assessment covers Leadership & Management, Coaching, Performance Support, Duty of Care, Education, Safeguarding, and Productivity.

Directors of the board are required to provide overall leadership and strategic vision for PGAAC, acting as a critical eye on the outputs of the multi-disciplinary assessments on the boys’ side and making licensing and other recommendations based on these asessments, and supporting the management team. 

A committee of the board, the Women’s Talent Pathway Assessment Board (WTPAB), has been established. Its membership consists of the PGAAC chair and representatives of The FA, WSL Football, the Premier League, and one independent member. The WTPAB monitors the delivery of PGAAC’s audit and assurance programme in the girls’ game and makes licensing and other recommendations based on the outputs of assessments. It thus maintains some operational independence from the main PGAAC Board which notwithstanding monitors its work. It is not anticipated that the successful candidate will also sit on the WTPAB although we are open to discussion on this point.

Background of the Board

The Board of PGAAC is comprised of an independent chair, and includes representatives from its three shareholders: the EFL, The FA  and the Premier League.

Key Responsibilities of the INED

Reporting to the Chair, the INED will be required to work with the other Directors of the Board to:

• Support PGAAC to deliver on its mission through a period of continued change. 

• Contributes and, where appropriate, leads the discussion around strategy and forward thinking actions with the ultimate aim of have a clear plan and framework in place which enables focus for all involved and gives opportunity to measure success

• Ensure that PGAAC is run in a transparent and equitable manner and operates in line with accepted best practice in corporate governance.

• Reviewing the output of the audits of boys’ Academies undertaken by PGAAC staff

• Evaluate and assess that output in order to determine whether an Academy should be awarded or maintain its licence to operate as such, and make recommendations accordingly.

• Where appropriate, consider, advise on and make recommendations regarding systemic areas of quality, risk and developmental need in the male and female elite talent pathway.

• Offer check and challenge to the Chair, General Manager and PGAAC staff.

Experience and capabilities

This is a role which combines strong business and governance acumen with some understanding and passion for youth development in English football. You do not need to be a football youth development expert as this expertise is already represented in depth on the Board. But you will be motivated by the vision of PGAAC and by the English football stakeholders’ shared desire to produce more and better home-grown players, and the development and wellbeing of children within the game. 

The following are the experience and capabilities we are seeking:

• Experience working with organisations during periods of developmental growth and change is highly valuable. This includes expertise in building a strong organisational culture and fostering team cohesion, particularly where staff members work remotely

• Experience of operating within a Board or committee or C-suite in a commercial organisation (not necessarily in sport) or national governing body of another sport.

• Capacity to contribute actively to the strategic direction of PGAAC demonstrated by evidence of an ability to think strategically and to analyse complex concepts

• Confident and effective communication and influencing skills with a willingness to speak their mind but to do so in a constructive and respectful way

• A proven track record of effective, independent, decision making

• Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team that makes collective strategic decisions and to accept collective corporate responsibility for decision making

• Understands what ‘good’ looks like within organisational design

• Has proven business acumen that they want to share to help the development of PGAAC

• Ability to review, understand and analyse complex technical reports, and to draw out their key points in order to make robust, informed decisions

• Ability to adopt an open and constructive approach to PGAAC proceedings, making a full contribution and offering check and challenge in a collegiate manner

Desirable

• Experience of sports governance, working with or as part of a board

• Experience of managing complex projects to ensure delivery in line with expectations

• Experience of audit and quality assurance processes 

Eligibility and Time Commitment

Due to the nature of the position, candidates must be independent of any football club which runs an Academy, and of The FA, the EFL the Premier League, the County FAs, Football

Club Charities and organisations linked to the talent pathways. By ‘independent’ we mean that you are free from any close connection with any such organisation, and, from the perspective of an objective outsider, you would be viewed as independent. 

Time Commitment

This is a non-executive role with attendance expected for up to eight meetings, which are equally distributed throughout the year and include one strategy away day in the close season. Attendance will be required at all Board meetings. There may on occasion be the need for short notice attendance at additional meetings and diary flexibility will be required.

The role involves both virtual meetings via Teams and in-person meetings. In-person meetings are preferred where practical and may take place in London or other locations. The position is renumerated and all reasonable expenses will also be covered. Full details will be shared on application.

This is a remunerated role. Remuneration is £500 per day.

PGAAC is an equal opportunities employer and strives to create an inclusive culture where talent can flourish. We believe in the potential of everyone and open our doors to those who share those values. All appointments will be made based on merit; however, we particularly encourage applications from women, people from minority ethnic communities, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people.  

Our commitment to safeguarding includes implementing robust safer recruitment procedures to assess the suitability of individuals applying for roles that involve work with children and adults who are or may be at risk of harm. For further information, please see our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Guidance.

We will remove barriers that prospective candidates might face at any stage of our recruitment process. If you have a disability and would like the advert in an alternative format, or would like to talk about how we can adjust the interview process to best support you, please contact recruitment@premierleague.com.    

About The Premier League

The Premier League is home to some of the most competitive and compelling football in the world. The League and its Clubs use the power and popularity of the competition to inspire fans, communities and partners in the UK and across the world. The Premier League brings people together from all backgrounds. It is a competition for everyone, everywhere and is available to watch in over 900 million homes in 189 countries.

We have a wide variety of responsibilities. These include organising the competition and its Handbook as well as managing the centralised broadcast and commercial rights. The work we do in conjunction with the Clubs also goes far beyond the 90 minutes. We support and provide a framework for youth development, we protect the organisation’s intellectual property, support the wider game and community programmes, undertake international development work and liaise with governing bodies and other leagues. 

The Premier League is an equal opportunities employer and strives to create an inclusive culture where talent can flourish. We believe in the potential of everyone and open our doors to those who share those values. All appointments will be made based on merit; however, we particularly encourage applications from women, people from minority ethnic communities, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people.  

Cloud & Security Operations Engineer

Role: Cloud & Security Operations Engineer

Hours: Full time, to include evenings and weekends

Location: American Express Stadium, Brighton and American Express Elite Football Performance Centre, Lancing

Job Type: Permanent

Deadline Day: 6 April 2026

About Brighton & Hove Albion FC

We compete at the highest levels of football on a global stage while embracing our Sussex community spirit. At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to high performance, professional excellence, and making a positive impact.

Help us secure the game’s future with technology

This is a pivotal role where you will take ownership of the Cloud platform, making sure our applications are well architected, efficient and secure. You will demonstrate a strong bias for action and keen interest in security beyond our GCP environment, including our on-premise and IoT setup. While you will work directly alongside experienced Cloud Architects, you will be expected to operate independently as well as communicate effectively with the broader team. Your primary goal is to ensure that as we scale our AI innovations, our infrastructure remains secure, reliable, and financially optimised.

Your background

If you have a solid grounding in DevSecOps principles, a passion for automation, and an interest in how AI is changing the security landscape, we want to hear from you.

To find out more about this role, click here to read the job description

Our values play a pivotal role in our success

Our values are a set of filters through which we deliver to each other, our fans, our partners and our sponsors.  As a team we live and breathe these values:

• Treat People Well

• Exceed Expectations

• Aim High. Never Give Up

• Act with Integrity

• Make it Special

How we say thank you  

In return for your hard work and commitment to us, some of the additional benefits you will receive will include, but not limited to:

• Complimentary breakfast and lunch at both sites

• 23 days holiday rising with length of service (pro rata for part time staff)

• Access to gym and padel court at our training ground

• Rewards platform, which includes access to 900+ retailers, a wellbeing centre and more!

• Priority access to match tickets and access to free WSL tickets for 2024/25 season

• In-house training programme and CPD opportunities

• Exclusive discounts and benefits from our partners and local businesses

Our commitment to EDI

We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that reflects the diversity of our society and the world around us. Our core values mean that we have a strong ethical culture which allows us to meet the needs of our diverse audience, both on and off the pitch. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of their age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnership. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application, do not hesitate to get in touch with teamtalent@brightonandhovealbion.com.

Safeguarding is part of everything we do

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We expect all colleagues and volunteers to share this commitment.

This is a UK-based position. It is unlawful to employ anyone without permission to live and work in the UK. All job offers are conditional upon background checks, including a complete 3 year reference history, DBS checks and verification of your right to work. Please note that we do not provide sponsorship for applicants who do not have the right to work in the UK.

Regional Network Manager - East (Fixed-Term Contract)

Division: Grassroots Football 

Location: Home based 

Closing Date: 7 April 2026

The FA are delighted to offer an exciting opportunity within our Grassroots division for a Regional Network Manager to join our team. Covering the East Region, you will cultivate and strengthen key partnerships to enhance the reach, visibility, and impact of the grassroots game across the area. You will play a leading part in sustaining and growing Women's Football structures in strategic locations, while providing expert development support, guidance, and training to County FAs. Additionally, you will drive delivery of The FA's broader football-for-development and social change initiatives across the region.

This role is a fixed-term contract until the 31st of July 2027, and will require regular travel within the region and Wembley (see attached map for further details).

What will you be doing?

Advise, Support, Connect and Train

• Leverage and develop partnerships to achieve greater coverage, reach and profile of the grassroots game across a regional area to ensure maximum connectivity (and best return on football investment), between football and wider sport, health and education stakeholders. Key partners will include Football Club Charities; County FAs; School Partnerships and
• Local Authorities.
• Retain and expand Women's Football structures in regional strategic locations connecting football development opportunities to Sport England's priority place work.
• Provide specialist development support, advice, and training to County FAs within the East region with specific support for the club development network to create sustainable provision for male, female and disabled participants.

Networks and Structures

• Grow, retain and evolve Girls Football School Partnership structures, connecting education and community football providers.
• Support County FAs to create effective cross-stakeholder action plans to achieve their targets and deliver successful football development outcomes for the local area.
• Design and deliver regional networking and training events for stakeholders.

Relationship Management

• Strengthen relationships between the County FAs and wider football providers, connecting and aligning strategies.
• Represent The FA on regional/local strategy groups and make presentations on the work of the Grassroots Football Division.
• Champion the perspective of County FAs and delivery partners across The FA and with key partners, elevating their profile and the recognition of the work undertaken at local level.
• Influence stakeholders' adoption of FA digital communication and products to reach customers across the wider football landscape.

Influence and Impact

• Provide specialist advice and guidance to support the development of the male, female and disability pathways in England Football Accredited Clubs.
• Develop processes that enables local knowledge and insight to inform national strategies.
• Relentlessly challenge alignment of football strategies across a regional area, including value for money and scale of impact.
• Ensure the best possible return on football investment across regional projects and interventions.
• Execute additional tasks as required to meet the FA's changing priorities.
• Comply with all company policies and procedures to ensure that the highest standards of health, safety, and well-being can be maintained.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Business / Sport development qualification.

• Strong influencing skills in the areas of strategy and policy.

• Experience of grassroots football.

• Track record of creating effective, detailed business plans to achieve a range of outcomes.

• Success in leading transformational change programmes.

• Broad business development skills covering the areas of people management, influencing and negotiating.

• Proven experience in developing successful partnerships and attracting investment.

• Ability to gain buy-in to equality objectives.

• Strategic management, policy implementation and business improvement.

• Evaluating risk, dealing with conflict and managing change.

• Achieving results through performance management.

• Relationship management through coaching and mentoring.

Beneficial

• Knowledge of the FA Grassroots Football Strategy.

• Regional Management or Senior Sport Development experience.

• Working in partnership with football and wider community organisations.

• Experience in political and functional workings of Local Authorities, Sport England and other partners.

• Health and safety skills / qualification.

• Project management skills / qualification.

• Understanding of data analysis.

What's in it for you?

We are committed to ensuring everyone can flourish in their roles, to achieve this we have unique office spaces under the arch of the iconic Wembley National Stadium, which is the home of English Football. We are also delighted to offer a world-class, Elite Performance Centre, St. George's Park in Staffordshire which is an exceptional setting to develop and inspire high-performing England teams and leaders.

We pride ourselves in offering a competitive salary as well as great opportunities to develop and grow in your role. But that is not all; we also have a range of exciting benefits, some of which can be found below:

• Access to event day tickets at Wembley Stadium, alongside a host of regular internal events throughout the season, encouraging you to connect and learn with your colleagues and look after your mental health and well-being.

• Free, nutritious lunches at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park.

• Free private medical cover.

• A contributory pension scheme.

• An additional 'Thank You' days leave, volunteering days as well as 25 days annual leave (based on a full-time, permanent contract.)

• A hybrid working model which offers greater flexibility.

For more information on what it is like to work at The FA, please visit our FA Careers page, https://www.thefa.com/about-football-association/careers 

Currently, we are working within a hybrid working model whereby the expectation is to work from your contractual location for part of the week, and as and when required by the team. The remaining days can be worked remotely. We will continue to monitor this model, and it may be adjusted in future if deemed necessary. The contractual location of this role can be found on the FA Careers page.

We are a diverse workplace, aspiring to represent football across the country. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity, encouraging you to be the best version of yourself at work. 

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.

As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

Digital Customer Services Team Leader

Division: Grassroots Football 

Location: Wembley Stadium 

Vacancy Type: Full-time, Permanent 

Closing Date: 8 April 2026

The FA are excited to be searching for a Digital Customer Service Team Lead to join the team. The successful candidate will lead the Digital Customer Service Desk to provide excellent customer service support across all Grassroots Football digital products.

The Service Desk has a national remit focusing on resolving the queries raised by users of The FA's Grassroots Digital Products, such as The Club Portal, FA Full-Time & The FA Matchday App. The team ensures the highest standards of online customer service, which is pivotal to achieving the national objective of providing digital tools to improve the customer experience.

Since its establishment in 2019, the Service Desk has resolved over 300,000 queries regarding digital products and has received over 4 million page views on its Technology Support Portal.

The role will manage and oversee a team of 6-10 customer service agents; therefore, experience of successfully managing a team is essential.

What will you be doing?

• Provide first-line support to our grassroots customers to use the FA Club, Competition and County Portals, Full Time and Matchday effectively.

• Manage and coach the Grassroots Customer Service Desk team members to be an effective, high-performing customer service team.

• Manage the future recruitment, onboarding, development, and deployment of Grassroots Customer Service agents.

• Manage key changes in Grassroots Digital Customer Service, including the transition of customer service platforms and the extension of the service to support new digital products.

• Manage & oversee all content within The FA Grassroots Technology Self Service Portal.

• Develop strong working relationships with key colleagues in FA Grassroots, Digital, FAL and the Counties.

• Use JIRA to raise bugs reported into the Service Desk.

• Manage & deliver Power BI reports concerning tickets raised within the Grassroots Service Desk.

• Actively seek out AI and automated solutions to deliver resolutions at scale.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Knowledge of the FA Grassroots Digital Product Suite.

• Working on a digital customer service platform.

• Appetite for change and innovation to drive improvement in customer service.

• Experience in successfully managing a team.

• Excellent IT skills utilising Office 365 and Microsoft Dynamics.

• Excellent customer service skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, particularly when dealing with problems in a fast-paced working environment.

• Strong administrative skills, especially in the effective use of a digital customer service platform (Freshdesk/Zendesk/MS Dynamics or similar)

• An understanding of The FA's Grassroots Technology offer.

Beneficial

• JIRA software knowledge.

• Experience in managing change.

• A track record of successfully implementing AI and automation solutions in the digital customer service space.

• Project Management skills.

What's in it for you?

We are committed to ensuring everyone can flourish in their roles, to achieve this we have unique office spaces under the arch of the iconic Wembley National Stadium, which is the home of English Football. We are also delighted to offer a world-class, Elite Performance Centre, St. George's Park in Staffordshire which is an exceptional setting to develop and inspire high-performing England teams and leaders.

We pride ourselves in offering a competitive salary as well as great opportunities to develop and grow in your role. But that is not all; we also have a range of exciting benefits, some of which can be found below:

• Access to event day tickets at Wembley Stadium, alongside a host of regular internal events throughout the season, encouraging you to connect and learn with your colleagues and look after your mental health and well-being.

• Free, nutritious lunches at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park.

• Free private medical cover.

• A contributory pension scheme.

• An additional 'Thank You' days leave, volunteering days as well as 25 days annual leave (based on a full-time, permanent contract.)

• A hybrid working model which offers greater flexibility.

For more information on what it is like to work at The FA, please visit our FA Careers page, https://www.thefa.com/about-football-association/careers 

Currently, we are working within a hybrid working model whereby the expectation is to work from your contractual location for part of the week, and as and when required by the team. The remaining days can be worked remotely. We will continue to monitor this model, and it may be adjusted in future if deemed necessary. The contractual location of this role can be found on the FA Careers page.

We are a diverse workplace, aspiring to represent football across the country. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity, encouraging you to be the best version of yourself at work. 

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.

As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

Club Secretary

The Club Secretary is the Club’s senior football governance and compliance lead. Reporting to the CEO, the role ensures full adherence to FA and Women’s Super League regulations, oversees player registration and contract administration, and maintains audit-ready compliance systems.

As the primary interface with league and regulatory bodies, this role safeguards the Club’s competitive eligibility and supports Tier 1 promotion readiness within a lean and scaling organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Player Registration & Contract Administration

• Manage all player registrations, transfers, loans and deregistrations through FA and league systems.

• Maintain oversight of trialist registrations, and all associated regulatory requirements in line with FA and league rules.

• Monitor squad composition and eligibility, including homegrown status, loan limits, and competition registration deadlines.

• Manage international transfers through the FIFA Transfer Matching System (TMS), overseeing International Transfer Certificates (ITCs) and all cross-border regulatory documentation.

• Coordinate visa and immigration processes for international players and staff in collaboration with Legal and HR advisors, including Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) applications, visa renewals, and right-to-work compliance.

• Oversee the full player contract lifecycle — including extensions, amendments, and expiry monitoring — in collaboration with Recruitment and Finance, ensuring regulatory compliance.

• Coordinate transfer window activity end-to-end, including documentation, eligibility verification, and league submissions, ensuring full compliance with FA, FIFA, and league regulations covering squad eligibility, transfer window rules, and competition-specific requirement.

• Maintain secure and accurate player records in accordance with UK GDPR requirements.

• Maintain accurate records of intermediary/agent involvement in player transactions to ensure adherence to FA and FIFA Football Agent Regulations.

Regulatory Compliance & League Governance

• Own the Club’s compliance with FA and WSL rules, ensuring all regulatory obligations are met in full and on time.

• Lead the preparation and submission of annual league compliance reporting, including the WSL Compliance and Development Report (CDR).

• Coordinate and manage regulatory aspects of the Club’s Tier 1 promotion application process.

• Serve as the Club’s principal liaison with the WSL, The FA, County Association and competition officials.

• Advise the CEO and Board on relevant regulatory developments and associated risk implications.

Match Day Administration & Stakeholder Liaison

• Work with the wider football operations team to ensure all matchday and fixture administration is managed in line with competition regulations.

• Act as a reliable, professional point of contact for league and competition stakeholders.

• Support senior leadership in preparation for league inspections, audits and regulatory panels.

• The club secretary is required to be in attendance at all home matches and some away matches as and where required.

Documentation, Governance & Audit Readiness

• Maintain a structured and audit-ready governance and compliance framework across football operations.

• Ensure mandatory league policies and documentation are current and properly controlled.

• Develop and manage a central compliance calendar and filing system.

• Align club-level governance processes with Mercury13 group standards where applicable.

What You Bring

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience in a club secretary, football administration, or governance/compliance role within the professional game

• Strong working knowledge of FA rules and regulations, league compliance frameworks, and player registration systems

• Experience managing regulatory compliance processes and preparing governance documentation

• Familiarity with player contract administration and transfer regulations

Bristol City Women’s Expectations

• Detail-oriented and organised, with the ability to manage multiple regulatory deadlines simultaneously

• A collaborative, solutions-oriented approach — this role works across football, finance, recruitment, and commercial functions

• Discretion and integrity when handling confidential information

• Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, growth environment

Desirable

• Experience within professional women’s football

• Knowledge of FA and league registration platforms (e.g. FIFA TMS, FA Whole Game System)

• Experience working in a multi-club ownership environment

About Us

Bristol City Women is a football club entering a new era of growth under the stewardship of Mercury13. The club is offering a unique opportunity to shape its governance and compliance function during a pivotal moment in its history. The club has big ambitions for its performance both on and off the pitch. Employees benefit from a supportive work culture that champions diversity and inclusion, alongside the chance to make a meaningful impact in the sporting world.

Safeguarding Statement

Bristol City Women's 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.

Academy International Scout - France

Discipline: Football Operations

Job type: Permanent

Expiry date: 10 Apr 2026

Turn potential into performance — helping young players thrive on and off the pitch.

We are the heartbeat of the city. A club with bold ambitions on a global stage and deep roots in our community. If you’re driven to raise the bar and make an impact, you’ll find the platform, the people and the pride to do your best work here.

About the role

The Academy International Scout – France will act as an ambassador for the Club within the assigned territory, leading on the identification and assessment of high‑potential academy players. Working closely with Academy Scouting and Recruitment leadership, the role supports evidence‑based decision‑making aligned to the Club’s long‑term academy strategy and EPPP requirements.

What you’ll do

*         Identify and assess high‑potential academy players within the assigned territory

*         Produce high‑quality scouting reports in line with Club methodology

*         Work closely with Academy Scouting and Recruitment leadership on target recommendations

*         Attend matches and tournaments to ensure effective player coverage

*         Maintain accurate and timely scouting data and records

*         Ensure all activity complies with EPPP and governing body regulations

United As One

We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and believe in equal opportunities for all. We recognise that the diversity of our people is one of our greatest strengths. We work together to reflect the communities we serve and to maintain an inclusive environment in which everyone can be their authentic self and is enabled to achieve their full potential.

Safeguarding

We’re committed to being a place where everyone is safe, heard, valued and able to thrive so we place high value on the safeguarding and welfare of everyone we engage with.

To view the full job description for this role, please click here.

All job offers are conditional upon background checks, including reference history, DBS checks, and verification of your eligibility to work.

Recruitment Agencies – please note that we do not accept unsolicited candidate details. Any candidates submitted without request will be considered direct applicants.

Academy International Scout - Holland

Location: South Holland

Discipline: Football Operations

Job type: Permanent (Contractor status)

Expiry date: 10 Apr 2026

Turn potential into performance — helping young players thrive on and off the pitch.

We are the heartbeat of the city. A club with bold ambitions on a global stage and deep roots in our community. If you’re driven to raise the bar and make an impact, you’ll find the platform, the people and the pride to do your best work here.

About the role

The Academy International Scout – Holland will act as an ambassador for the Club within the assigned territory, leading on the identification and assessment of high‑potential academy players. Working closely with Academy Scouting and Recruitment leadership, the role supports evidence‑based decision‑making aligned to the Club’s long‑term academy strategy and EPPP requirements.

What you’ll do

*         Identify and assess high‑potential academy players within the assigned territory

*         Produce high‑quality scouting reports in line with Club methodology

*         Work closely with Academy Scouting and Recruitment leadership on target recommendations

*         Attend matches and tournaments to ensure effective player coverage

*         Maintain accurate and timely scouting data and records

*         Ensure all activity complies with EPPP and governing body regulations

United As One

We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and believe in equal opportunities for all. We recognise that the diversity of our people is one of our greatest strengths. We work together to reflect the communities we serve and to maintain an inclusive environment in which everyone can be their authentic self and is enabled to achieve their full potential.

Safeguarding

We’re committed to being a place where everyone is safe, heard, valued and able to thrive so we place high value on the safeguarding and welfare of everyone we engage with.

To view the full job description for this role, please click here.

All job offers are conditional upon background checks, including reference history, DBS checks, and verification of your eligibility to work.

Recruitment Agencies – please note that we do not accept unsolicited candidate details. Any candidates submitted without request will be considered direct applicants.

Academy International Scout - Scandinavia

Discipline: Football Operations

Job type: Permanent (Contractor status)

Expiry date: 10 Apr 2026

Turn potential into performance — helping young players thrive on and off the pitch.

We are the heartbeat of the city. A club with bold ambitions on a global stage and deep roots in our community. If you’re driven to raise the bar and make an impact, you’ll find the platform, the people and the pride to do your best work here.

About the role

The Academy International Scout – Scandinavia will act as an ambassador for the Club within the assigned territory, leading on the identification and assessment of high‑potential academy players. Working closely with Academy Scouting and Recruitment leadership, the role supports evidence‑based decision‑making aligned to the Club’s long‑term academy strategy and EPPP requirements.

What you’ll do

*         Identify and assess high‑potential academy players within the assigned territory

*         Produce high‑quality scouting reports in line with Club methodology

*         Work closely with Academy Scouting and Recruitment leadership on target recommendations

*         Attend matches and tournaments to ensure effective player coverage

*         Maintain accurate and timely scouting data and records

*         Ensure all activity complies with EPPP and governing body regulations

United As One

We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and believe in equal opportunities for all. We recognise that the diversity of our people is one of our greatest strengths. We work together to reflect the communities we serve and to maintain an inclusive environment in which everyone can be their authentic self and is enabled to achieve their full potential.

Safeguarding

We’re committed to being a place where everyone is safe, heard, valued and able to thrive so we place high value on the safeguarding and welfare of everyone we engage with.

To view the full job description for this role, please click here.

All job offers are conditional upon background checks, including reference history, DBS checks, and verification of your eligibility to work.

Recruitment Agencies – please note that we do not accept unsolicited candidate details. Any candidates submitted without request will be considered direct applicants.

Player Status Administrator (Agents) - 9-Month Fixed-Term Contract

Division: Football Operations  

Location: Wembley Stadium 

Vacancy Type: Fixed Term Contract, Full-time 

Closing Date: 10 April 2026

Be part of the team at the heart of English football

The FA is looking for an enthusiastic and passionate football specialist to join us as a Player Status Administrator. In this pivotal role, you'll support the registration and regulation of Football Agents, review club submissions involving player registrations, and help ensure full compliance with FA Regulations. You'll also play a key role in managing declarations of payments made by clubs in relation to player registrations, keeping the game running smoothly and transparently.

This role is a 9-month fixed-term maternity leave contract, concluding at the end of January 2027.

What will you be doing?

• To be a key point of contact for other national associations, FIFA, clubs and agents on all football agent regulatory matters.
• Support the team in responding to all queries relating to Football Agents, including from agents, players and clubs.
• Review payment declarations entered by clubs for international transfer payments and agent fees.
• Support the Player Status team with updates to the Agents Portal.
• Assist the Player Status Team with the collection and review of data for the publication of agent transactions and fees.
• To identify and, where appropriate, investigate, or assist with the investigation of, potential breaches of FA and/or FIFA Regulations relating to Football Agent activities.
• Assist with other tasks as directed by the Head of Player Status and Competitions or Senior Player Status Manager.
• Process applications from clubs for sanctioning of international matches.
• Respond to applications for FIFA Match Agents.
• Support the Player Status team at times when the role requires work outside of the usual business hours.
• Execute additional tasks as required to meet the FA's changing priorities.
• Comply with all company policies and procedures to ensure that the highest standards of health, safety, and well-being can be maintained.
• As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• A high level of organisational and administrative skills.

• The ability to work to regular and frequent deadlines with a high degree of accuracy.

• Excellent IT skills, particularly MS Excel.

• A high level of communication skills.

• An Excellent telephone manner.

• Ability to work as part of a team and adapt to the demands of the wider Department and Division.

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Ability to cope under pressure and with a positive disposition and willingness to help others.

Beneficial

• Experience of working within a football club or football organisation.

• Knowledge of domestic and worldwide football.

• Experience in data analysis.

What's in it for you?

We are committed to ensuring everyone can flourish in their roles, to achieve this we have unique office spaces under the arch of the iconic Wembley National Stadium, which is the home of English Football. We are also delighted to offer a world-class, Elite Performance Centre, St. George's Park in Staffordshire which is an exceptional setting to develop and inspire high-performing England teams and leaders.

We pride ourselves in offering a competitive salary as well as great opportunities to develop and grow in your role. But that is not all; we also have a range of exciting benefits, some of which can be found below:

• Access to event day tickets at Wembley Stadium, alongside a host of regular internal events throughout the season, encouraging you to connect and learn with your colleagues and look after your mental health and well-being.

• Free, nutritious lunches at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park.

• Free private medical cover.

• A contributory pension scheme.

• An additional 'Thank You' days leave, volunteering days as well as 25 days annual leave (based on a full-time, permanent contract.)

• A hybrid working model which offers greater flexibility.

For more information on what it is like to work at The FA, please visit our FA Careers page, https://www.thefa.com/about-football-association/careers 

Currently, we are working within a hybrid working model whereby the expectation is to work from your contractual location for part of the week, and as and when required by the team. The remaining days can be worked remotely. We will continue to monitor this model, and it may be adjusted in future if deemed necessary. The contractual location of this role can be found on the FA Careers page.

We are a diverse workplace, aspiring to represent football across the country. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity, encouraging you to be the best version of yourself at work. 

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.

As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

Production Director

Studio Overview

We are Sports Interactive

The gaming studio behind: Football Manager.

Founded in 1994, Sports Interactive (SI) became a wholly owned subsidiary of SEGA Europe in 2006. Based at the Here East technology hub in Stratford, East London, the SI team continues to expand as we bring our titles to an ever-growing audience across an increasing variety of platforms.

To support our growth, we welcome the opportunity to connect with passionate people with the drive to match our ambitions and initiative to realise your individual potential.

Job Title: Production Director

Team: Production

Reporting into: Development Director

Working Model: Hybrid 2-3 days

Location: Here East, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E15 2GW

Position Overview

We’re hiring a Production Director to lead and elevate how we deliver Football Manager. 

This is a newly created senior role with a clear mandate to change how the studio manages delivery, improving quality, predictability, and our ability to deliver on time and to budget. This is a critical leadership position, interfacing closely with the senior leadership team, the wider studio, and SEGA’s Development Services teams.

 You will be responsible for turning creative ambition into high-quality, annually delivered games across a multi-year, multi-SKU roadmap, with deep technical, design, and production interdependencies. This means owning how work is planned, sequenced, staffed, tracked, tested, and ultimately shipped and being clear around what is and is not achievable within an annual cycle.

Our yearly multi-SKU release model brings real intensity and pressure. We need someone who stays calm under that pressure, understands the trade-offs it creates, and can make hard calls early rather than deferring them to later when it’s difficult to change course.

You’ll lead a large, multi-layered production led organisation, with real authority over delivery standards, operating rhythm, and execution. You’ll work alongside creative and technical leadership across Technology, Design, Art & Animation to ensure ambition and realism stay in balance and that decisions are made early enough to matter.

Key Responsibilities

Production Leadership   

• Own and evolve the studio’s production strategy, team structure, delivery frameworks and studio output, ensuring it’s on time and to a high-quality level. 
• Be a hands-on mentor to leads and senior producers, focused on building a high-performing department 

Delivery Focus  

• Drive clarity, responsibility, accountability, and realism across planning and delivery. 
• Operate with urgency, but not chaos, in the context of an annual release cycle, managing high expectations and multiple moving parts. 
• Partner with creative, technical, and commercial leads to ensure plans are ambitious, but achievable, supporting the games vision and backed by data, not guesswork. 
• Work closely with operational roles (e.g., Senior Operational Readiness Manager) to evolve the studio’s approach to planning, forecasting, and risk. 
• Drive adoption of best-in-class production tools and processes

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• Proven experience in Production Director, Executive Producer, or equivalent roles in high-stakes, deadline-driven environments. 
• A clear, confident leader who can set standards, not just follow them.  
• Deep understanding of what it takes to deliver under pressure, ideally with experience in annual shipping or high-cadence live service.  
• Track record of building and managing large production and QA teams   with evidence of improved performance, not just stability. 
• Able to work in a fast-moving, ambitious studio with both legacy complexity and future ambition.  
• Comfortable in ambiguity, sharp in decision-making, and capable of leading a team through change.  
• Strong command of production tools (JIRA, forecasting models, dashboards), but focused on what they unlock, not the admin they create.

Benefits of Working at Sports Interactive:

• Private Healthcare and Dental Cover.
• Contributory Pension Scheme (employer contributions up to 7% of annual salary).
• Eligibility to participate in the company’s discretionary bonus scheme.
• Access to life assurance and income protection Cover.
• Access to Travel Insurance for yourself and your family.
• Confidential mental health, therapy and coaching support with subsidised access.
• Flexible gym and fitness options via our benefits platform.
• Access to on-site physiotherapy and massage services.
• Free onsite evening bar in the Sports Interactive London HQ.
• A well-stocked breakfast bar with cereals, fruit, tea and coffee.
• Free access to games released under the SEGA Europe umbrella.
• Regular events and experiences in collaboration with our partnered football clubs.
• Multiple clubs and societies to join (including book club, art workshops and more).
• Personalised football shirt upon passing probation.
• Trophies & gift cards for length of service milestones.
• Cupcakes sent to you on your birthday.

What is it like to work here?

We approach everything with passion, whether that is making our mark on the gaming and football industries or doing our bit for the world around us. We want to share that outlook with everyone who shows up to work here each day.

For us, talent wins games, but teamwork wins titles. Collaboration is the key to constantly topping our best. We believe everyone matters, no matter which part of the business you are in, so we encourage and support our people in driving your own growth and realising your full potential. But, more than anything else, we are a team. A team with a down-to-earth dynamic, that has a lot of fun doing what we do.

And whether that’s technical tweaks or fine-tuning our creative process, everything is geared at producing the best game possible for our players. To do that, we need to be tenacious and move quickly and not be afraid of switching things up. It is these principles that have enabled us to produce a game that has defined year after year, and that will continue to push us for many more to come.

We’re also a London Living Wage employer, boast one of the lowest staff turnover rates in the industry and are proud to have won the ‘Best Places to Work’ award by Gamesindustry.biz in large company category in 2023.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from any relevant candidate irrespective of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief.

SI is proudly a Disability Confident Committed employer, and we are dedicated to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible. Our studio has disabled access and facilities but please ensure you advise us if you require any other reasonable adjustments to be made to support you during the recruitment process.

Our Values:

• Keep collaborating: Teamwork wins titles - Here, ideas belong to everyone, whatever department you’re part of. Collaboration lets us score more as a team than we could individually.
• Be flexible: We think fast and adapt faster. The football and entertainment worlds never stand still, so we keep progressing and switching things up to stay ahead.
• Stay Tenacious: We don’t overlook the details. Everything we do is about producing the best game possible, in other words, never settle.
• Show Ambition: Let your drive lead the way - Your individual outlook can give everyone the edge. Make the studio’s purpose personal and let your drive lead the way.
• Bring the Passion: Have fun doing your thing - Don’t be fooled, what we do is not a game. Making our players’ passion come to life is our passion.
• Consider the Bigger Picture: Keep things in perspective - We want our impact to be a positive one. From built-in work/life balance to initiatives covering the most important topics of today, we have what matters in focus.

Operations Manager (Girls Academy)

Location: Birmingham, Bodymoor Heath Training Ground

Discipline: Professional/Technical

Job type: Full Time, Permanent

Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum dependent upon experience

Contact email: careers@avfc.co.uk 

Department: Girls Academy Department

Hours of Work: Full Time (flexibility to work matchday, evenings and weekends is required for this post)

Closing Date: Sunday 12 April 2026

1. The Department

Our Girls Academy Department has established itself as a leader in girls youth football development, consistently delivering the highest standards in coaching, education and training across 10 teams with players aged U10 – U21. We are committed to nurturing talent and creating a supportive and professional environment and we are proud of the role we play in shaping the next generation of female footballers as demonstrated in our recent success with our U21s winning the Professional Game Academy Plate.

To support our continued growth and success of our programme we are seeking a proactive and detail-orientated Operations Manager to join our team.

2. The Role

The Operations Manager is a key person who will lead and manage the daily operational delivery across our Girls Academy. You will support the technical and strategic aims of our programme through effective co-ordination and compliance, logistical oversight and stakeholder communication aligning with FA and Club processes to ultimately play a crucial part in creating the right environment to enable our players and staff to thrive both on and off the pitch.

This will be an incredibly varied role where no two days will look the same. Your responsibilities and accountabilities will involve leading and overseeing day-to-day administration, co-ordinating the full range of Girls Academy activities (including matchdays, player registration, travel arrangements and facility bookings), and the organisation of our Professional Game Academy (PGA) tours. One key duty will be ensuring effective and timely communication with all our key stakeholders such as staff, players, parents / guardians, Club partners and liaising with internal stakeholders. You will also lead on the Girls Academy audit ensuring that all compliance and documentation is in line with requirements.

For further information about the Role, please see the Role Profile.

3. The Person

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual with a genuine passion for operational excellence and girls’ youth sport development with a real chance to make a huge impact.

You will need to have demonstrable experience in an operational role – being organised and able to manage your time, multi-tasking and prioritising effectively. You must be able to communicate clearly and concisely with the ability to liaise and build successful relationships with a range of stakeholders at all levels, demonstrating personal credibility. You will need proficient IT skills in Microsoft Outlook and be able to work accurately with a close attention to detail.

This role will align with the Girls Academy schedule so you will need to be available to work flexibly as the Club requires which will include evenings and weekends.

Ideally, you will have experience of working within a professional sporting environment with an understanding of FA governance and audit requirements and be competent in using sport administration systems and digital platforms such as IFAS, Club Portal, GotSport. A UK driving licence with access to your own vehicle to travel between our different sites will also be beneficial.

4. Why join us?

There has never been a better time to join Aston Villa Football Club. Our drive to succeed is visible on the global stage, we are building a family ethos and culture to be proud of and realising our ambitious plans for the expansion and improvement of our world-class facilities. If you are already excited by this challenge and want to play your part in our historic Club, then you'll be pleased to hear about our amazing staff benefits you'll receive whilst working for us! See our Staff Benefits booklet to find out more.

As part of your application, you will be asked to:

1. Upload your CV

2. Answer the following question:

a) Please outline your key skills, qualities and experience (using examples) which make you the ideal candidate for this role (400 words maximum)

Workforce Data Systems and Operations Manager - Pro Coach Partnership

Application Deadline: April 13, 2026

Department: Football

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: London, UK

Workplace type: Hybrid

Documents: Premier league job description - workforce data systems and operations manager.pdf

Overview

The Pro Coach Partnership (PCP), on behalf of the Professional Game Partners, are looking to recruit for a Workforce Data Systems and Operations Manager to be the central point of coordination for the Professional Game’s Coaching Workforce Data and Insights.  

Reporting into the Premier League, this role will operate across all the Professional Game Partners to establish consistent data standards, collection processes and operational governance for coaching workforce data.

The Workforce Data Systems and Operations Manager will lead the standardisation of coaching workforce data across the Professional Game, creating a trusted foundation that will enable the production of actionable insights to support decision-making across the Professional Game.   

Who are the Pro Coach Partnership

The Pro Coach Partnership (PCP) is the group of English Football Game Partners with a shared responsibility for, and commitment to, developing and educating coaches in English Professional Football. The Game Partners include; The Premier League, The Football Association (“the FA”), English Football League (“the EFL”), Women’s Super League Football (“WSL”), Professional Footballers Association (“PFA”), League Managers Association (“LMA”) and League Coaches Association (“LCA”) (together, the Game Partners).  

The purpose of the PCP is to align, shape and enhance the coach development system through the Integrated Coaching Strategy to support coaches in the Men’s and Women’s Professional Game. It aims to achieve this by developing a thriving professional game, powered by a diverse workforce of world-class coaches and managers. 

The Game Partners operate across different competitions, organisational structures and regulatory environments, each holding elements of coaching workforce data within their own systems and processes. This is a shared role that sits within this eco-system and will work closely with colleagues across the various Game Partners to ensure workforce data is aligned, comparable and operationally robust.

The role 

The Workforce Data Systems and Operations Manager fixed-term role offers the opportunity to lead the coordination and standardisation of coaching workforce data across the Professional Game. The role will be accountable for delivering against agreed KPIs and timelines that enables Game Partners, clubs and coaches to reliably identify, verify and track coaching information and career journeys across the Professional Game.

Business Analysis and Operational Systems Management  

• Analyse current Game Partner data system dependencies, data flows, business processes and operational constraints. 
• Produce as-is and to-be process and data models for workforce data systems across Game Partners. 
• Identify, and work with organisation business owners to ensure alignment with organisational roadmaps.
• Define business requirements for aligned data definitions, metrics, terminology and collection processes. 
• Identify, assess and document options, impacts and requirements for future data integration (including cost, benefits and risk).

Project Management 

• Lead delivery of the Workforce Data and Insights Project through requirement elicitation and stakeholder management.
• Ensure business needs are clearly linked to agreed milestones and timelines, highlighting impacts of scope, dependency or requirement changes.
• Coordinate inputs across multiple Game Partners and stakeholders to validate requirements and outcomes.
• Identify, analyse and manage dependencies, risks, and issues, providing evidence-based recommendations to support decision making.

Game Partner and Club Engagement 

• Act as the main point of contact for Game Partners and Clubs in relation to the collection and administration of workforce data. 
• Facilitate workshops and working groups to understand, challenge and prioritise business needs and requirements.
• Support clear communication on expectations, timelines, and requirements, translating complex data and technical concepts to different audiences. 
• Work through existing governance and operational structures to gain agreement on requirements and sign-off on proposed approaches. 

Compliance and Data Quality 

• Define, document and support compliance with agreed data standards and processes.
• Investigate data quality issues and root causes, working with Clubs and Game Partners to identify practical improvement actions.
• Monitor data quality metrics, providing recommendations to inform continuous improvement in relation to data completeness, consistency, and reliability. 
• Support the design of sustainable operating models and define roles and responsibilities for ongoing data ownership and stewardship.

Requirements for the role

• Strong understanding of business processes and operational governance. 
• Significant experience applying business analysis techniques across systems and operations and project delivery 
• Experience supporting change adoption across multi-organisation environments.
• Demonstrable experience in assessing, documenting and improving complex systems. 
• Previous ownership of data standardisation processes, establishing and maintaining common data definitions, metrics and collection processes. 
• Experience of data quality management and collection across multiple organisations.
• Experience specifying requirements or producing operational reports and dashboards to support decision-making. 
• Strong project management skills, with experience tracking actions, risks, dependencies, and delivery milestones.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to engage technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence with the ability to manage stakeholder relationships appropriately.

Our commitment to safeguarding includes implementing robust safer recruitment procedures to assess the suitability of individuals applying for roles that involve work with children and adults who are or may be at risk of harm. For further information, please see our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Guidance.

To apply please visit our careers page and apply with your CV and a cover letter. The closing date for applications is 13 April 2026.

We will remove barriers that prospective candidates might face at any stage of our recruitment process. If you have a disability and would like the advert in an alternative format, or would like to talk about how we can adjust the interview process to best support you, please contact recruitment@premierleague.com 

About The Premier League

The Premier League is home to some of the most competitive and compelling football in the world. The League and its Clubs use the power and popularity of the competition to inspire fans, communities and partners in the UK and across the world. The Premier League brings people together from all backgrounds. It is a competition for everyone, everywhere and is available to watch in over 900 million homes in 189 countries.

We have a wide variety of responsibilities. These include organising the competition and its Handbook as well as managing the centralised broadcast and commercial rights. The work we do in conjunction with the Clubs also goes far beyond the 90 minutes. We support and provide a framework for youth development, we protect the organisation’s intellectual property, support the wider game and community programmes, undertake international development work and liaise with governing bodies and other leagues. 

The Premier League is an equal opportunities employer and strives to create an inclusive culture where talent can flourish. We believe in the potential of everyone and open our doors to those who share those values. All appointments will be made based on merit; however, we particularly encourage applications from women, people from minority ethnic communities, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people.  

Head of Academy Psychology

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Discipline: Coaching and development

Job type: Permanent

Expiry date: 13 Apr 2026 12:00

Be part of something bigger. Turn potential into performance — helping young players thrive on and off the pitch.

We are the heartbeat of the city . A club with bold ambitions on a global stage and deep roots in our community. If you’re driven to raise the bar and make an impact, you’ll find the platform, the people and the pride to do your best work here.

You’ll set direction, join the dots across the Club, and turn strategy into delivery, with high standards, pace and purpose.

About the role

We’re building something powerful at our Academy — a place where young talent grows with confidence, resilience and ambition. We have a comprehensive psychological strategy and a team of accomplished practitioners, and we want you to drive our academy’s psychology and wellbeing vision.

As Head of Academy Psychology, you’ll set the direction, raise the standard, and make sure that the environment is fully resourced for our players to thrive on and off the pitch. You’ll work closely with the Academy Director, the club’s Head of Psychology, and a tight, committed multi‑disciplinary team who are all pushing in the same direction: forward.

This is your chance to bring evidence‑based practice to life in a club that’s on the rise, and to make a real difference to players, staff and the wider programme from day one.

What you’ll do

*       Lead he psychology and wellbeing strategy across the Academy.

*       Ensure a connected, high‑performing psychology team with strong support and development.

*       Lead age‑appropriate curriculum design that strengthens how our players think, feel and perform.

*       Ensure PDP phase psychological work that fits seamlessly with our training and playing models.

*       Lead on cross‑department collaboration — coaches, medical, safeguarding, analysis and more.

*       Enable targeted 1:1 and group support for player wellbeing and performance.

*       Research, projects, assessment tools and resources that move our Academy forward.

You will possess

Essential

*       Postgraduate degree in psychology or sport psychology.

*       HCPC registration.

*       Proven leadership across elite or professional sport.

*       Significant strategic experience in managing elite psychology programmes.

*       Advanced understanding of wellbeing, youth development and evidence‑based practice.

*       Strong communication skills and the confidence to influence senior staff.

*       Substantial experience in the development of psychological assessments, creating psychological resources, and curriculum content.

Desirable

*       Doctorate or equivalent experience.

*       Coaching qualifications.

*       Experience with adolescent elite performers.

*       Video analysis/data presentation skills.

*       Knowledge of modern professional football demands.

*       Additional language skills.

The team

We’re at our best when we’re in it together.

That’s why our Academy team share ideas, solve problems quickly and build relationships that players can rely on. It keeps our support consistent, connected, and genuinely human.

United As One

We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and believe in equal opportunities for all. We recognise that the diversity of our people is one of our greatest strengths. We work together to reflect the communities we serve and to maintain an inclusive environment in which everyone can be their authentic self and is enabled to achieve their full potential.

Safeguarding

We’re committed to being a place where everyone is safe, heard, valued and able to thrive so we place high value on the safeguarding and welfare of everyone we engage with.

How to apply 

Please note, recent applicants need not apply.

To access the full job description for this role please click here.

For further information on this role and about the club please visit our careers page.

Please apply as soon as possible as this vacancy may close early should we receive a high volume of suitable candidates.

This position is UK based and requires proof of the right to live and work in the UK. All job offers are conditional upon background checks, including reference history, DBS checks, and verification of your eligibility to work. Please note, we do not sponsor applicants without the right to work in the UK.

Head of Women & Girls

As we look to take the next steps towards the WSL2 Football for the first team in the club's history, an exciting opportunity will emerge to join the club as Head of Women & Girls.

Subject to our successful promotion, the role will lead, manage and strategically advance the club's female football provision from U10s through to the Women's First Team whilst ensuring that the programme is fully integrated into the Academy's infrastructure, aligned with it's technical, operational and performance standards.

The role will be full time, working 37.5 hours per week including weekend and evening work.

For more details on the role and its requirements, Please see the below job description.

Ref: LS-00-19022026

Closing date: 16th April 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION

Deputy Director, Communications and External Affairs

Closing date:  16/04/2026, 23:55

Location: Manchester

Business Unit(s): Communications

Position Type: Full Time

Salary: £81,000 - £130,000

Job Description

The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has been established to protect and promote the sustainability of English football, for the benefit of fans and the local communities football clubs serve. 

The IFR will help improve financial sustainability of clubs, ensure resilience across the leagues, and safeguard the heritage of English football. It will operate a licensing regime; set corporate governance standards and monitor, protect, and promote financial resilience. It will also enforce compliance with requirements on financial regulation, club ownership and directors, fan engagement, and heritage protection.

The IFR will also have powers to prohibit clubs from joining competitions that are not fair or meritocratic, or that threaten the heritage or sustainability of English football.

About the role

This role is core to the IFR’s regulatory strategy. In collaboration with the Director of Strategic Communications, you will be responsible for all communications activity, including media management, across the IFR.

It will give you exposure to the central workings of the football industry, significant influence over the IFR’s regulatory strategy, and shared responsibility for designing and delivering comprehensive communications and media strategies that support the IFR in achieving its objectives.

This role requires a deep understanding of football governance, financial regulation and effective communication to ensure the IFR successfully meets its statutory duties and clearly articulates its mission and actions to all stakeholders. 

You will also have the ability to combine deep strategic instinct with sharp industry/political awareness. You will need to read situations quickly and accurately while maintaining a coherent long-term strategy with a team that spans across Press, Stakeholder Engagement, Internal and Digital Communications.

While the IFR is a Non-Departmental Public Body there will be regular interaction with Ministers, Special Advisers, senior officials, and cross-Government partners.  You will have experience of operating at pace and under pressure, and you will bring the credibility and judgement to be a trusted adviser at the most senior levels

You will also sit as a key member of the Executive Committee alongside the Director of Strategic Communications, sharing collective responsibility for the delivery of the communications strategy.

Essential Requirements

• Proven senior experience setting and delivering communications strategy in a complex, high-profile environment, balancing long-term direction with rapid response to clubs, leagues, fans, and media.

• Demonstrated track record of providing trusted, timely, and robust evidence based counsel to senior officials combined with a strong ability to build and sustain relationships across complex stakeholder landscapes to align, amplify, and accelerate delivery. 

• Demonstrated experience in protecting and enhancing organisational reputation during periods of challenge with the ability to identify and mitigate reputational risks before they escalate.

• Proven ability to operate as an effective, collaborative member of a senior leadership team, taking collective responsibility for shared outcomes and contributing to directorate-wide strategy beyond your own portfolio. 

• Demonstrated experience leading high-performing teams that can adapt rapidly to emerging priorities while maintaining strategic coherence, nurturing talent, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

• Experience leading internal communications through significant organisational change, balancing transparency and strategic clarity.

Desirable Skills 

Ability to collaborate with teams across Policy, Economics, Supervision and Legal, understanding their perspectives and aims while balancing how this should be communicated to, and understood by, fans, clubs, legal stakeholders and others.

Terms and Conditions of Employment

If successful you will join a Non Departmental Public Body and will be employed as a Public Servant. 

If you are an existing Civil Servant or a DCMS employee you will no longer have access to Civil Service benefits including the Civil Service pension. 

The terms and conditions of employment include:

• Pension 12%  An employee contribution of 5%, with an employer contribution of 7%. 

• Flexible Benefit 8% Employees can choose to invest 8% of their base salary into their pension, or take as cash (post tax)

• Reward we will have a performance based reward programme. 

• 31.5 days annual leave

• Flexible and hybrid working, 40% in office attendance

• Occupational sick pay

• 9 months paid Maternity Leave + generous paternity and adoption leave.

• A bespoke L&D programme to help you achieve your personal CPD, including paid membership fees

• Cycle-to-work scheme and much more!

How to Apply

To apply for this vacancy, you will need to submit the following documents which will assessed against experience.

➔A CV setting out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements. Please ensure you provide employment history that relates to the essential and desirable criteria, and that any gaps in employment history within the last 2 years are explained. The CV should not exceed more than 2 x A4 pages.

➔A Statement of Suitability (max 750 words) explaining how you consider your personal skills, qualities and experience provide evidence of your suitability for the role in reference to the essential requirements highlighted. You may also choose to reference the desirable skills listed however these will not be considered in the assessment of your application except in circumstances where there are a high number and calibre of candidates.

For the shortlist, we will select applicants demonstrating the best fit for the role by considering the evidence provided in your application.

In the event of a large number of applicants, an initial sift will be conducted on the statement of suitability. Those who are successful in the initial sift will then be scored on all elements of the application.

For support in writing your application and interviewing, please refer to the ‘Application and Interview Guidance’ document attached to the job advert.

The Interview

The interview process will assess experience through a presentation which will be provided prior to interview. It will also assess your suitability for the role through competency-based questions.

As part of your interview, you will be asked to deliver a short oral presentation. Full details of this, including the topic, length of time, and whether or not you will need to use visual aids, will be sent to you prior to your interview.

Your interview will take place via Teams

Further Information 

A reserve list may be held for a period of 12 months from which further appointments can be made. 

The IFR has a location neutral pay scale. For more information on this, please see the ‘Candidate Information Pack’ attached. 

Reasonable Adjustments

We are committed to supporting candidates so they can perform at their best throughout the recruitment process. This includes making reasonable adjustments to our process. To request an adjustment, please email careers@footballregulator.org.uk  

Accessibility 

If you are experiencing accessibility difficulties with any of the attachments, please contact us. Contact details can be found in the 'contact point for applicants' section of the job advert. 

Feedback 

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment. 

Security 

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks. 

Nationality requirements 

This job is broadly open to the following groups: 

• UK nationals 

• nationals of the Republic of Ireland 

• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK 

• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement

• Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) 

• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) 

• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 

Diversity and Inclusion 

The IFR is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found.  

Contact point for applicants 

Email: careers@footballregulator.org.uk  

Job Description  Deputy Director, Communications and External Affairs  ​.pdf – 953KB Opens in a new window

The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has been established to protect and promote the sustainability of English football, for the benefit of fans and the local communities football clubs serve. The IFR will help improve financial sustainability of clubs, ensure resilience across the leagues, and safeguard the heritage of English football. It will operate a licensing regime; set corporate governance standards and monitor, protect, and promote financial resilience. It will also enforce compliance with requirements on financial regulation, club ownership and directors, fan engagement, and heritage protection.
The IFR will also have powers to prohibit clubs from joining competitions that are not fair or meritocratic, or that threaten the heritage or sustainability of English football

Our objectives are to 

- Protect and promote the financial soundness of regulated football clubs
- Protect and promote financial resilience of English football
- Safeguard the heritageof English football

Head of Safeguarding Case Management

Division: Legal and Governance 

Location: Wembley Stadium 

Vacancy Type: Full-time, Permanent 

Closing Date: 19 April 2026

As Head of Safeguarding Case Management you will be responsible for leading The FA's Safeguarding Case Management Team and ensuring safeguarding concerns involving children and adults at risk are managed effectively and consistently.

You will work closely with internal colleagues, in particular the Strategic Safeguarding Team and external partners, including statutory agencies, to support informed decision‑making and strong risk management across the game. You will also contribute to the development of safeguarding strategy, policy and procedures, providing specialist advice when needed.  Working with key stakeholders in football aimed at ensuring children and adults at risk are protected from harm will be a key element of the role.

You will oversee all safeguarding investigations led by the team and ensure that casework is carried out in line with FA policy, regulations and statutory expectations, while also ensuring that safeguarding practice within the team is robust, well governed and aligned to best practice with the aim that football has a safe environment for all participants.

Please include a cover letter with your application, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the criteria.

What will you be doing?

Leadership

• Lead delivery of The FA's safeguarding case management function.
• Contribute to the safeguarding strategy and policy led by the Strategic Safeguarding Team.
• Provide safeguarding advice, education and guidance to the football network in areas connected to the Safeguarding Case Management Team's work.
• Set priorities, allocate resources and support a high-performance culture.
• Ensure consistent, inclusive leadership and team development.
• Provide supervision, manage performance and uphold Company values.
• Collaborate with the Strategic Safeguarding Team and stakeholders to optimise ways of working.

Safeguarding Policy, Regulation and Process

• Help develop and maintain safeguarding policy, procedures, systems and documentation.
• Ensure legislative and best-practice compliance.
• Oversee quality assurance processes and ensure high practice standards.
• Lead and encourage continuous process improvement to drive efficient ways of working.

Case Management and Regulatory Compliance

• Oversee management of referrals, ensuring compliant investigations and effective risk management.
• Ensure timely risk assessments and implementation of safety plans, including emergency orders.
• Ensure the case management system supports efficient case handling and reporting.
• Maintain effective working relationships with statutory agencies (including Police and Children's and Adults Social Care departments; and Local Authority Designated Officers) and football safeguarding partners.
• Ensure accurate case recording in line with data protection requirements.

Performance and Reporting

• Set and achieve departmental KPIs relating to ongoing case management.
• Provide feedback to stakeholders on safeguarding delivery.
• Set team objectives aligned to the strategy.
• Use data and analytics to report on performance and implement continuous improvement.

Other

• Promote multi-agency working and a positive safeguarding culture.
• Support budget, workforce and resource planning.
• Champion equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Comply with organisational policies and uphold wellbeing standards.
• Executes additional tasks as required to meet the FA's changing priorities.
• Comply with all company policies and procedures to ensure that the highest standards of health, safety, and well-being can be maintained.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Professional qualification in Social Work, Probation, Police, Law (BA/LLB) or equivalent.

• Senior management experience making complex safeguarding decisions under pressure.

• Strong knowledge of current child protection and adults at risk legislation, research and best practice.

• Evidence of a child‑centred approach and understanding of children's rights and needs.

• High‑quality report writing skills and experience quality‑assuring risk assessments.

• Experience drafting safeguarding policies, procedures and guidance.

• Experience managing large teams handling significant caseloads, with high resilience.

• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

• Proficient in case management systems and Microsoft Office.

• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) and ability to present sensitive information to diverse audiences.

• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams, maintaining morale in a challenging subject area while consistently driving high levels of performance.

• Well‑organised with excellent attention to detail.

• Experience applying a strategic approach to regulatory and compliance issues.

Beneficial

• Experience working in a sports governing body.

• Some understanding of football in England and its structures.

• Experience working with media and communications teams.

• Understanding of legal and regulatory processes in sport.

• Experience in project and change management.

As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

What's in it for you?

We are committed to ensuring everyone can flourish in their roles, to achieve this we have unique office spaces under the arch of the iconic Wembley National Stadium, which is the home of English Football. We are also delighted to offer a world-class, Elite Performance Centre, St. George's Park in Staffordshire which is an exceptional setting to develop and inspire high-performing England teams and leaders.

We pride ourselves in offering a competitive salary as well as great opportunities to develop and grow in your role. But that is not all; we also have a range of exciting benefits, some of which can be found below:

• Access to event day tickets at Wembley Stadium, alongside a host of regular internal events throughout the season, encouraging you to connect and learn with your colleagues and look after your mental health and well-being.

• Free, nutritious lunches at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park.

• Free private medical cover.

• A contributory pension scheme.

• An additional 'Thank You' days leave, volunteering days as well as 25 days annual leave (based on a full-time, permanent contract.)

• A hybrid working model which offers greater flexibility.

For more information on what it is like to work at The FA, please visit our FA Careers page, https://www.thefa.com/about-football-association/careers 

Currently, we are working within a hybrid working model whereby the expectation is to work from your contractual location for part of the week, and as and when required by the team. The remaining days can be worked remotely. We will continue to monitor this model, and it may be adjusted in future if deemed necessary. The contractual location of this role can be found on the FA Careers page.

We are a diverse workplace, aspiring to represent football across the country. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity, encouraging you to be the best version of yourself at work. 

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.

As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

FA Leadership Academy 2026 Mentor Applications

The FA National Youth Council (FANYC) are excited to announce that we are now recruiting Mentors for the FA Leadership Academy 2026(FALA26). 

The FA Leadership Academy is a 12-month learning and development programme for Youth Leaders in football aged 16 – 24 which kicks off with a 4-day residential event. This year the residential will take place in-person on the 26th-30th July 2026 at Walton Hall, Warwickshire. Over their 12-month learning and development journey, participants are supported by FALA Mentors to unlock their full potential whilst implementing a project that aims to deliver positive change in their local football community. The programme is delivered by the 16 youth leaders of the FA National Youth Council whose vision is:

“To ensure all young people have meaningful and inclusive opportunities to develop themselves and positively impact the football community.”

If you feel as though you, or somebody within your network fits the criteria of a FALA Mentor, are open to the challenge of developing, and would benefit from connecting with The FA Youth Leadership ecosystem please see the application link here and Role Description attached. 

To be eligible a mentor must:

• Be available for the following key dates: 2x Training on Sunday 10th May 2026 (online) and Sunday 28th June 2026 (Walton Hall Hotel, Wellesbourne, Warwick),

• Residential - Sunday 26th – Thursday 30th July 2026 (Walton Hall Hotel, Wellesbourne, Warwick)

• Have confirmation of support from your line manager for your involvement in FALA

Applications must be submitted by no later than Monday 20th April 2026 at midday. Any applications after the deadline will not be accepted.

Should you have any questions in relation to this opportunity and would like to speak to an FA member of staff please feel free to reach out directly to Steph Powell (National Development Manager – Volunteering) on Steph.Powell@TheFA.com or Joel Moore (Chairperson – FA National Youth Council) on nationalyouthcouncil@thefa.com.

Click here to see the supporting role profile document (opens in a new window)