Head of Youth Development - Football Academy

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Head of Youth Development to lead its football academy in Rustenburg. You will shape the strategic direction and run all youth programs from grassroots to elite levels, focusing on talent identification and world-class coaching methods.

The role requires UEFA A or CAF A and extensive youth coaching experience, plus strong leadership, budgeting and safeguarding expertise. Flexible hours, evenings, weekends and travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Recognized advanced coaching qualifications (UEFA A / CAF A).
• Significant experience in youth football coaching and development.
• Proven track record of developing players who progressed to higher levels.
• Strong knowledge of tactics, player development models, and age-appropriate training.
• Leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in talent identification and scouting.
• Understanding of child psychology and safeguarding.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive youth development strategy and curriculum aligned with the club's philosophy.
• Oversee recruitment, identification, and development of talented youth across all age groups.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of youth coaches and support staff.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality coaching and training programs covering technical, tactical, physical and psychological development.
• Monitor player progress and create individualized development plans.
• Collaborate with sports science, medical, and educational support staff for holistic development.
• Foster a positive, inclusive and disciplined environment promoting growth and wellbeing.
• Liaise with parents, guardians and educational institutions regarding development.
• Manage the budget for the youth development department.
• Stay updated on best practices in youth football development and performance analysis.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Talent identification

Staff management

Education

UEFA A or CAF A

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organization in the Leisure & Sports landscape, is seeking a highly qualified and visionary Head of Youth Development to lead its esteemed football academy in Rustenburg . This pivotal role is responsible for the strategic direction and operational management of all youth development programs, from grassroots to elite levels. The Head of Youth Development will focus on identifying, nurturing, and progressing young football talent, implementing world-class coaching methodologies, and fostering a positive development environment. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in youth football coaching, talent management, and a strong understanding of child development principles. This position is key to building a sustainable pipeline of talent for the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive youth development strategy and curriculum aligned with the club's philosophy.
• Oversee the recruitment, identification, and development of talented young footballers across all age groups.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of youth coaches and support staff.
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality coaching and training programs focused on technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development.
• Monitor player progress, providing regular feedback and creating individualized development plans.
• Collaborate with sports science, medical, and educational support staff to provide holistic player development.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and disciplined environment that promotes player growth and well-being.
• Liaise with parents, guardians, and educational institutions regarding player development.
• Manage the budget for the youth development department effectively.
• Stay updated on best practices in youth football development and performance analysis.

Requirements

• Recognized advanced coaching qualifications (e.g., UEFA A, CAF A, or equivalent).
• Significant experience in youth football coaching and development, preferably in an academy setting.
• Proven track record of developing young players who have progressed to higher levels.
• In-depth knowledge of football tactics, player development models, and age-appropriate training.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in talent identification and scouting is essential.
• Understanding of child psychology and safeguarding principles.
• Ability to manage staff, budgets, and program implementation.
• A genuine passion for youth development and the growth of football.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and travel as required.

Benefits

• This key leadership role offers a competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Our client is committed to fostering professional development through ongoing training, mentorship, and opportunities to attend international coaching conventions.
• The work environment is dynamic, challenging, and deeply rewarding, focused on nurturing talent within the Leisure & Sports sector.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for the successful candidate moving to Rustenburg .