Head Soccer Scout and Talent Identification Specialist

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Regional travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Soccer Scout and Talent Identification Specialist based in Soweto, Gauteng. You will lead the scouting network, identify players across youth and senior levels, and drive the club's talent development aligned with its philosophy.

The role requires an exceptional eye for talent, deep knowledge of the global football landscape, and strong networking and reporting capabilities. Extensive travel and weekend/evening observations are expected.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in soccer scouting and talent identification.
• Strong understanding of soccer tactics and player development pathways.
• Proven ability to identify and assess talent effectively.
• Excellent networking within the football community.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the club's talent identification strategy across all age groups.
• Lead and manage a team of regional and national scouts.
• Scout for players at local, regional and potentially international levels.
• Evaluate player technical, tactical, physical, and psychological attributes.
• Prepare detailed scouting reports and present findings to the technical staff and management.
• Build and maintain relationships with players, agents, coaches and stakeholders.
• Identify players who fit the club's playing style and long-term vision.
• Organize and conduct scouting events and assessments.
• Stay informed about trends in player development and talent identification.
• Ensure ethical and compliant scouting practices.

Skills

Talent identification

Scouting experience

Networking

Observational skills

Reporting skills

Communication

Travel flexibility

Gauteng knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a professional soccer club with a strong commitment to developing local talent, is seeking a highly experienced and discerning Head Soccer Scout and Talent Identification Specialist. This crucial role, based in Soweto, Gauteng, will be responsible for leading the club's scouting network and implementing strategic talent identification processes across youth and senior levels. You will be tasked with identifying promising players who align with the club's playing philosophy and future aspirations. This position requires an exceptional eye for talent, a deep understanding of the global soccer landscape, and strong networking capabilities. The role is primarily field-based within Soweto and surrounding areas, involving extensive travel to matches and training sessions for observation and evaluation, ensuring a consistent on-ground presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the club's talent identification strategy across all age groups.
• Lead and manage a team of regional and national scouts.
• Scout for players at local, regional, and potentially international levels.
• Evaluate player technical, tactical, physical, and psychological attributes.
• Prepare detailed scouting reports and present findings to the technical staff and management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with players, agents, coaches, and other football stakeholders.
• Identify players who fit the club's playing style and long-term vision.
• Organize and conduct scouting events and assessments.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in player development and talent identification.
• Ensure ethical and compliant scouting practices.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in soccer scouting and talent identification, preferably with a professional club or academy.
• A deep understanding of soccer tactics, player development pathways, and the player market.
• Proven ability to identify and assess talent effectively.
• Strong networking skills within the football community.
• Excellent observational, analytical, and reporting skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to travel extensively and work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings.
• Must be based in or have deep knowledge of the Gauteng football scene, particularly Soweto.
• A passion for soccer and a dedication to discovering and developing talent.
• Demonstrated integrity and professionalism in all dealings.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and track record.
• Opportunity to work with a respected professional soccer club in Soweto.
• Be at the forefront of talent identification in South African football.
• Potential for significant impact on the club's future success.
• Travel opportunities within the region.
• Be part of a passionate and dedicated football organization.