Head of Football Development

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid & retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Football Development to lead the club's academy programs in Mahikeng, North West. You will shape the strategic direction, manage staff, oversee talent identification, and ensure players progress from youth to professional levels.

The role requires a CAF A or UEFA A license (or equivalent), 10+ years in coaching/development, and strong leadership and sports science knowledge. A demanding, rewarding environment offers long-term impact and progression.

Qualifications

• 10+ years coaching and development experience in football, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of developing young players and integrating them into senior teams.
• Strong understanding of tactical systems, player development principles, and sports science applications in football.
• First Aid and CPR certification required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive football development strategy and curriculum.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and performance management of coaching staff across academy age groups.
• Lead player identification and scouting initiatives to discover and recruit top talent.
• Manage day-to-day academy operations including training schedules, facility usage, and welfare.
• Ensure best practices in player development, coaching methodology, and sports science.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, high-performance culture within the academy.
• Collaborate with first-team staff to ensure smooth progression for talent.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Talent identification / scouting

Project management

Flexible hours & travel

Mentoring

Education

CAF A License / UEFA A License or equivalent

First Aid & CPR certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent football (soccer) club with a strong focus on youth development, is seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Football Development to lead its academy programs in **Mahikeng, North West**. This senior position is responsible for the strategic direction, operational management, and overall success of the club's player development pathway, from grassroots to professional levels. The Head of Development will oversee coaching methodologies, talent identification, player welfare, and curriculum design, ensuring alignment with the club's philosophy and industry best practices. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of football coaching and development, exceptional leadership skills, and a proven ability to nurture talent and build high-performing teams. This is a significant opportunity to shape the future of football talent in the region. Join our client in **Mahikeng, North West**, and play a crucial role in cultivating the next generation of football stars. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated individual committed to player growth and the long-term success of the club. This role demands strategic foresight and hands-on leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive football development strategy and curriculum.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and performance management of coaching staff across all academy age groups.
• Lead player identification and scouting initiatives to discover and recruit top talent.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the academy, including training schedules, facility usage, and player welfare.
• Ensure the implementation of best practices in player development, coaching methodology, and sports science.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance culture within the academy.
• Collaborate with the first-team coaching staff to ensure a seamless transition for talented young players.
• Manage the academy's budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and financial accountability.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with parents, schools, and community stakeholders.
• Monitor player progress, providing feedback and support for their holistic development.
• Stay abreast of global trends and innovations in football development and coaching.

Requirements

• Relevant coaching licenses (e.g., CAF A License, UEFA A License or equivalent).
• Minimum of 10 years of coaching and development experience in football, with at least 5 years in a leadership role (e.g., Head of Youth Development, Academy Director).
• Proven track record of developing young players and successfully integrating them into senior teams.
• Deep understanding of tactical systems, player development principles, and sports science applications in football.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in talent identification, scouting, and recruitment strategies.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and travel.
• Experience within the football landscape of **Mahikeng, North West** or South Africa is highly desirable.
• Passion for player development and a commitment to ethical coaching practices.
• First Aid and CPR certification required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and international exposure.
• Relocation assistance may be available.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.
• Generous annual leave and holiday provisions.
• Chance to work at a club with a strong developmental vision.
• Supportive and collaborative organizational culture.