Head of Academy Operations

EFL; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Plymouth Argyle is seeking a Head of Academy Operations to lead all operational aspects of their Academy. This role promises to be pivotal in shaping the Academy's future, particularly as it transitions to a new training facility. You will manage operations across all phases, ensuring high standards are maintained while also liaising with key stakeholders to enhance the Academy culture. Ideal candidates will bring relevant experience from a professional sports setting, demonstrate strong organizational skills, and be committed to player welfare.

Benefits

Access to CPD

Club resources support

Involvement in Academy operations transition

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar operational role in professional sports.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding and player development systems.
• Willingness to learn academy systems like FIP.

Responsibilities

• Manage all academy operations including logistics, compliance, and health protocols.
• Coordinate events and liaise with stakeholders.
• Oversee transition to new academy facilities.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving mindset

Interpersonal skills

Education

Enhanced DBS clearance

UEFA B License & FA Youth Award

Job description

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About The Role

Head of Academy Operations - Job Advert

Plymouth Argyle are recruiting a critical position within our Academy team and seeking a driven and detail-oriented Head of Academy Operations to lead the day-to-day delivery of all operational aspects of our Academy. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to play a key leadership role as the Academy transitions to our brand-new training ground at Foulston Park - a significant step in our long-term player development strategy.

Key Responsibilities:
• Manage and coordinate all academy operations across Foundation, Youth, and Professional

Development Phases.
• Oversee logistics for training, fixtures, transport, accommodation, and equipment provision.
• Manage the use, maintenance, and scheduling of all current academy facilities, and lead all

operational planning for the transition to and day-to-day running of Foulston Park.
• Act as the operational lead for EPPP audit preparation, compliance, and the FIP system.
• Support safeguarding protocols, health and safety, and welfare logistics for all age groups.
• Liaise with key stakeholders including parents and external partners.
• Organise and deliver key events such as CPD sessions, academy events (e.g. Celebration

evening) and home fixtures.
• Work collaboratively with coaching, medical, performance support and education staff to

maintain high operational standards.

About The Candidate

Essential Requirements:
• Experience in a similar operational, administrative, or team management role within a

professional sports or educational environment.
• High-level organisational and communication skills with a proactive and solution-focused

mindset.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding, child welfare, and player development systems.
• Familiarity with academy systems such as FIP or willingness to learn.
• Enhanced DBS clearance.

Desirable:
• Experience working in an EPPP-registered football academy.
• Understanding of FA, EFL, or Premier League youth development regulations.
• First aid and safeguarding qualifications.
• UEFA B License & FA Youth Award (willingness to coach an Academy age group).

Person Specification:

We are looking for individuals who can contribute positively to our Academy culture and standards:
• Experience in a professional football or sporting environment
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills
• Ability to work under pressure, both independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to ongoing personal development and CPD
• Enthusiastic, passionate, and professional attitude
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
• Full UK driving licence and access to independent transport
• Ability to build strong working relationships with players, parents, and colleagues

What We Offer:
• A full-time leadership role with the opportunity to shape the future of Plymouth Argyle's

Academy operations.
• Involvement in the transition to Foulston Park, our new, purpose-built academy training

facility.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking working environment within a growing and ambitious

Academy.
• Access to CPD, club resources, and structured performance development.

About The Club

All Club Policies can be found on the Club Website:

www.pafc.co.uk/club/club-policies