Head of Community Football & Talent Pathways

Barnsley Football Club; Blackburn; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Blackburn Rovers Community Trust seeks a senior leader to shape its Community Football strategy and drive high‑quality, inclusive delivery across programmes such as Rovers Play and ETC. You will lead the workforce, manage budgets, and build strong partnerships with BRFC, funders and community partners.

A proven track record in strategic leadership and safeguarding is essential. You will oversee performance, ensure sustainable income, and create clear progression pathways from engagement to

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience in football development or community sport.
• Experience managing multiple programmes and teams.
• Proven track record of growing participation and impact.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding, risk and governance in football.
• Experience with budgeting, income targets and funding.
• Ability to secure partnerships and external funding.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and continuous review of BRCT’s Community Football strategy.
• Provide strategic and operational leadership across football programmes.
• Oversee budgeting, income generation and value-for-money.
• Build relationships with Blackburn Rovers FC, funders, schools and guardians.
• Lead workforce planning, recruitment, induction and performance management.
• Ensure safeguarding, quality assurance and governance across delivery.

Skills

Strategic leadership

People management

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Data & performance analysis

Partnership development

Communication & reporting

Coaching & workforce development

Education

UEFA B Licence

UEFA A Licence (in progress)

UK driving licence

FA Safeguarding qualification

FA First Aid qualification

Degree in Sports Development/Coaching/Management

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

Blackburn Rovers Community Trust seeks a senior leader to shape its Community Football strategy and drive high‑quality, inclusive delivery across programmes such as Rovers Play and ETC. You will lead the workforce, manage budgets, and build strong partnerships with BRFC, funders and community partners.

A proven track record in strategic leadership and safeguarding is essential. You will oversee performance, ensure sustainable income, and create clear progression pathways from engagement to