Lead Professional Development Phase Coach (U21s)

Stoke City Football Club; Stoke-on-Trent; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned football club in England seeks a Lead Professional Development Phase Coach to enhance their Academy curriculum and player development philosophy. This position requires leading the U21 programme, developing coaching strategies, and mentoring staff. Ideal candidates will possess a UEFA A Licence and have a deep understanding of player development principles. This is a full-time permanent position with a commitment to equality and safeguarding practices.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of Elite Player Performance Plan guidelines.
• Proven track record of developing talent.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead all on-field and off-field aspects of the U21 programme.
• Develop and implement a progressive coaching plan.
• Create team and individual game plans with the MDT.
• Provide consistent feedback to players and staff.
• Manage integration of training with First Team.

Skills

Excellent communication

Strong leadership

Organisational skills

Understanding of EPPP

Critical performance analysis

Adaptability

Education

UEFA A Licence coaching qualification or equivalent

Job description

Stoke City Football Club is seeking an innovative and driven individual to play a vital role in the ongoing evolution of our Academy. This position is designed for someone with a genuine passion for enhancing our Academy curriculum, refining our game model and advancing our player development philosophy.

As the Lead Professional Development Phase Coach, you will be instrumental in leading and coordinating the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT), ensuring that we adopt a holistic approach to player development. You will act as a coaching leader and mentor to our staff, fostering an environment of collaboration, continuous improvement and shared success.

The ideal candidate will be committed to staying at the forefront of coaching and player development trends. You will be expected to integrate evidence based practices into our programmes, ensuring that our methodologies are grounded in the latest research and developments in the field.

Main Responsibilities

• Leading all on field and off field aspects of the U21 programme, creating a demanding, inspiring and aligned environment that prepares players for First Team football.
• Developing and implementing a progressive, dynamic coaching plan in line with the Academy’s tactical principles, individual development objectives and competition demands.
• Creating and executing team and individual game plans collaboratively with the MDT, ensuring performance behaviours reflect the Club’s values and playing identity.
• Formulating KPIs in line with the Club philosophy for the Match Analysis team to source, along with ad-hoc game analysis footage requests.
• Delivering elite coaching sessions using modern methodologies, incorporating specialist support, individualisation and data insights.
• Providing consistent, clear and detailed feedback to players and staff, encouraging a growth mindset and self-awareness.
• Managing the integration of training and match exposure opportunities with the First Team, Technical Staff and Loan Manager.
• Driving the development and oversight of Individual Player Development Plans, ensuring that each player’s pathway is managed proactively and reflectively.

Key Skills, Experiences and Qualifications

• UEFA A Licence coaching qualification or equivalent.
• A strong understanding of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) guidelines and their application within an Academy setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with players, parents, staff and stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and motivational abilities, with a proven track record of developing talent.
• Exceptional organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• A deep understanding of player development principles and modern coaching methodologies, with a focus on evidence based practice.
• Ability to analyse player performance critically and provide constructive and effective feedback.
• A proactive and adaptable approach to problem solving, with a commitment to continuous improvement.

A high degree of flexibility is needed to cover evenings and weekend training sessions, matchday fixtures and other adhoc events.

The position will be offered on a full time and permanent basis.

This organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and DBS checks at the appropriate level will be obtained prior to employment commencing.

Closing date for applications is Friday 17th April 2026.

Stoke City Football Club endorses the principle of Equality and will strive to ensure that everyone who wishes to be involved in the Club will be treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, sex or sexual orientation.

By applying to us you are agreeing to share your Personal Data in accordance with our Recruitment Privacy Policy which can be found at www.stokecityfc.com/recruitment-privacy-policy/

The Club is committed to providing access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in without threat of intimidation, victimisation, harassment, bullying and abuse. Any person associated with the Club can be assured of an environment in which their rights, dignity and individual worth are respected and in particular, that they are able to enjoy their engagement at the Club.