Preston North End are looking to recruit an individual whom has the required experience, qualifications and skills to fulfil the role as a Lead Senior Professional Development Phase U21 Coach. We are looking for someone with excellent organisation skills, someone who is versatile, adaptable and capable to lead a team.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. To lead on the design, implementation and delivery of coaching practices (in line with Club and Academy philosophy/principles) with the emphasis on the individual, unit and team. This will primarily be with the U21 players, but it may also relate to all full-time academy players and selected gifted and talented school age players.
2. To work closely with the academy manager, first team manager and first team coaching staff with the transition of Academy Players to the club's senior squad in line with the clubs policies and procedures.
3. To lead the U21 team within the selected games programme.
4. Assist the Professional Development Phase Coaches in the U18's and U19's games programme as and when required to do so.
5. Work with the recruitment team to identify the best available external talented players.
6. Contribute to the multi-disciplinary reviews of all Academy Players in the Professional Development Phase.
7. Review and analyse players performance through analysis software and review platforms.
8. Support the medical and sports science departments to ensure that players are working to their peak physical and psychological capacity.
9. Assist the Head of Recruitment, Loans and Player Pathway staff member to provide feedback and analysis to players.
10. Work with the education and player care team to ensure players fulfil their educational and life skills targets.
11. Lead on creating an elite, competitive and winning environment and culture within the academy programme.
12. Logistical support - to help out with the kit, travel (minibus) as and when required.
13. Any other jobs assigned by the Academy manager and academy management team.
14. Form a member of the Senior Coaching Team with responsibility to further develop club philosophy and mentoring of coaches through their staff development plans.
Salary
We offer a competitive salary dependent on qualifications, skills and experience.
Location
You will be based at the Academy training complex, Springfields Training Ground, Preston, PR2 1XR, however, the role will also dictate you to work from UCLan Sports Arena, Cottam, Preston, the First Team Training Ground, Chorley, Deepdale Stadium, Preston and other various locations nationwide to perform your matchday duties.
Working hours
Your working hours of work will be determined by the needs of the role and shall be a minimum of 37.5 hours per week. You may from time to time be required to work additional hours as is reasonable to meet the requirements of the club's business. On occasions your role may necessitate longer hours than your contracted number. This will be kept to a minimum, but the hours are dictated by the responsibilities of the role.
What you can expect in return
* Further training and development opportunities
* Complimentary PNE season tickets for each league fixture
* Access to staff discounts
* Onsite parking
* Staff uniform
Closing date - Thursday 15th January 2026 at 5pm
Shortlisting & Invitations sent out for interview - Friday 16th January 2026
First Interview (online) - Wednesday 21st January 2026
Second Interview (Practical Session) - task specific - Week commencing 26th January 2026