BURTON ALBION - Head of Player Development (Academy Manager)

Job Summary

To lead the planning, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of the Player Development Philosophy at Burton Albion FC Academy, ensuring alignment with the club’s identity and the first team vision. The goal is to consistently develop and transition homegrown players into the first team and beyond to higher levels of the professional game.

To provide both strategic direction and day-to-day operational leadership across all areas of the Academy, with a strong emphasis on the holistic development of young players and the early, effective transition into senior football.

1. Player Development

• Oversee player development inside the club to provide 2-3 players per season ready for the first team squad.
• Provide regular updates to the Sporting Director and Board on player progression and recommend players for scholarships and professional contracts.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of youth development and coaching by engaging in regular CPD and meeting requirements set by the EFL, FA, and UEFA.

2. Planning & Strategy

• Lead the planning, delivery, and ongoing review of the Academy Performance Plan and Coaching Curriculum, ensuring alignment with the ambitions, vision, and philosophy of Burton Albion FC.
• Take ownership of all Academy audits in accordance with Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) regulations (e.g. Safe to Operate, Compliance, Academy Standards, Health & Safety, and Safeguarding).
• Manage reporting processes to the Board and Academy Management Team.
• Set agendas and lead Technical Board Meetings in collaboration with the Academy Secretary/Administrator and the Sporting Director.

3. Operational Leadership

• Define and implement the Academy’s operational and performance plans and coaching curriculum, aligned with EPPP requirements and strategic KPIs.
• Review and adapt these objectives regularly, reporting outcomes to the Sporting Director and Board.
• Lead effective change management through continuous improvement and clear communication.
• Manage and support Academy staff, ensuring they understand their roles and are appropriately challenged and supported via performance reviews, goal-setting, and regular meetings.
• Ensure effective use of the Performance Management Application (PMA) and Performance Clocks, with all relevant data handled in compliance with GDPR.

4. Decision-Making

• Hold responsibility for scholarship decisions at the Professional Development Phase.
• Present cost-effective development opportunities that support the Academy’s growth in line with its strategic objectives.
• Lead the identification and recruitment of key Academy staff to foster a high-performance environment.

5. Leadership, Impact & Influence

• Drive and deliver the Academy’s vision through strategic planning, cultural development, and transformational leadership.
• Guide and maintain the Academy’s playing and coaching philosophy, aligned with the Club’s overall football strategy.
• Represent and advocate for the Academy within the Club and the broader football community, building strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders (e.g., Burton Albion FC Community Trust, Women’s & Girls Programme, local schools and universities).
• Support and update the Academy Technical Board on key Academy matters.

6. Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the Academy in communications with key stakeholders including the EFL, FA, PFA, and LFE.
• Maintain consistent communication with staff, players, and parents via a variety of platforms.
• Promote the Academy positively through attendance at CPD events, networking opportunities, and community engagement.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all Academy-related external enquiries, sponsors, and partnerships.

7. Budget & Resource Management

• Review, propose, and manage the Academy budget, in conjunction with the Club’s Head of Football Administration.
• Delegate budget responsibilities to departmental heads and provide regular financial reports.
• Ensure all financial actions stay within agreed budgetary limits.

8. Staff Leadership & Development

• Lead the ongoing development of all Academy departments in line with the Club’s values and footballing philosophy.
• Ensure safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion are embedded across all Academy operations.
• Lead the recruitment of Academy staff and implement a clear succession planning strategy.
• Ensure all staff engage in relevant CPD tailored to their roles.
• Undertake any additional responsibilities as may reasonably be requested.

Health & Safety Responsibilities

• Take care for your own health and safety, and that of others who may be affected by your actions or omissions.
• Comply with all elements of the Club’s Health & Safety Policy to help fulfil its legal obligations.

Safeguarding Responsibilities

• Adhere to all safeguarding policies and procedures as set by the Club.
• Report any safeguarding or welfare concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer.
• This role requires an Enhanced DBS Check due to the nature of the work.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Responsibilities

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, both within the Academy and in the broader context of sport.