Head of Coach Development

Fulham Football Club; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A football academy in London is seeking a Coach Developer to oversee the U14-U21 Coaching Programme, fostering a culture of growth and excellence. The ideal candidate has extensive coaching experience, excellent communication skills, and qualifications aligned with PGAAC requirements. This role emphasizes individual and team development, ensuring that every player receives personalized attention and learning opportunities.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in youth or elite coach development.
• Engagement with parents in a coaching setting.
• Knowledge of youth football regulations.

Responsibilities

• Manage and appraise all coaches in the U14-U21 pathway.
• Oversee succession planning and recruitment of coaching staff.
• Lead training sessions integrating team and individual outcomes.

Skills

Coaching experience

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Education

Relevant coaching qualifications

Postgraduate diploma in coaching

Job description

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Key Responsibilities

Culture & Leadership

• Foster a values-driven culture and an outstanding learning environment.
• Lead the design, delivery, and review of the U14-U21 Coaching Programme and playing style.
• Manage and appraise all coaches in the U14-U21 pathway.
• Oversee succession planning, recruitment, and integration of new coaching staff.
• Build strong relationships with players, families, and multidisciplinary colleagues.
• Represent the Academy in external coach development partnerships.

Coach Development

• Provide individualised development plans and reflective learning opportunities for all U14-U21 coaches.
• Facilitate purposeful learning experiences and share impactful learning materials.
• Co-lead the Academy Coaching Skills Matrix and Training Needs Analysis.
• Collaborate with the Coaching Manager (U9-U13) to ensure pathway alignment.

Player Development

• Work with the Academy Manager and Head of Player Development to deliver individualised programmes for all players.
• Ensure every player has an Individual Learning Plan and Performance Clock.
• Lead training sessions that integrate team and individual outcomes.

Essential Requirements

• Fundamental belief in the potential for people to grow and improve.
• Extensive coaching experience within a Category 1 or Premier League Academy.
• Minimum 3 years in a youth development or elite coach development role.
• Proven experience engaging with parents/guardians in similar settings.
• Relevant qualifications meeting PGAAC and PLYDR requirements.
• Strong knowledge of youth football regulations and safeguarding practices.
• Exceptional organisational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Resilient, optimistic, and proactive mindset.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

• FA Talent Identification Level 2.
• Premier League Elite Head of Coaching Post Graduate Diploma or higher degree in coaching, coach development, or leadership.
• Participation in the Premier League's Future Coach Developer scheme.