9 Player Development jobs in the United Kingdom
Women's Academy Head of Player Development
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At the heart and soul of London since 1895 West Ham United is a dynamic, fan-focused football Club constantly moving forward but always with an eye on the past.
Our home at the London Stadium has a capacity of 62,500 making it one of the biggest club Stadia in the country however our tickets are the lowest priced for London based clubs in the Premier League, echoing objectives to create Affordable Family Football.
In 2018, our Women's team gained a professional status for the very first time, jumping 2 divisions and competed in the Women's Super League (WSL), the premier division of women's football in England. After finishing a respectable 7th, the team enjoyed particular success in the FA Cup reaching the final of the competition, eventually being beaten by 2017 winners Manchester City.
In April 2019, we opened our brand-new Academy facility based at Chadwell Heath which will help to bring through some of the very best talents in the area, the recent emergence of First Team Players Declan Rice and Ben Johnson are a testament to the work already being done at the Academy.
On the business side, we are continuing to create a Stadium our supporters can call home, with the renaming of the Billy Bonds Stand and Claret and Blue pitch surrounding amongst the latest developments. Additionally, the Club has achieved the Disability Confident Leader status.
The Club employees a constantly growing workforce of approximately 300 core staff and 500 Foundation and events staff, and is a truly unique place to work. We welcome talented individuals who will thrive in our ambitious organisation.
In October 2023, West Ham United was awarded the Advanced level of the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard, recognising the Club's ongoing dedication and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). It is the second time West Ham United has received the award, which is the top accolade that can be achieved by Premier League clubs, having first been presented with the Advanced level in 2020.
Why Join Us?
Diversity & Inclusion: We believe a diverse team drives creativity and strengthens performance. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities to apply.
Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to protecting the physical and mental health of our staff, ensuring a balanced and supportive work environment.
Career Growth: As part of a premier football club, you will have opportunities to grow and innovate in an exciting and fast-paced environment.
Position:Women's Academy Head of Player Development
Department: Women's Football
Location: West Ham United Training & Match-Day Facilities
Salary: Competitive
Contract Type: Full-Time (including evenings and weekends as required)
Reports to: Academy Director & Head of Women's Football
Responsible for: Leading the development of the West Ham United Women's Professional Game Academy (PGA), including the management and implementation of a holistic Player Development & Coaching Strategy
Role Purpose:
West Ham United Women are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and visionary Head of Player Development to lead, innovate, and elevate player and coach development across our Women's programme.
This pivotal role is responsible for aligning the player pathway with the Club's football philosophy, ensuring that individual player progression from youth to senior levels is delivered within a high-performance, holistic environment.
You will lead on the design and delivery of a club-wide development strategy that champions talent progression, builds elite performance habits, and supports both players and staff to fulfil their potential — The West Ham Way .
Requirements:Key Responsibilities:
Programme-Wide Leadership and Strategy
- Lead the strategic development of a player-centred, dual-career development framework that encompasses technical, tactical, physical, academic, and psychological growth.
- In partnership with the Development Board, establish and expand a full Academy structure, integrating U21, U16 and other age groups.
- Embed the West Ham United Women's playing philosophy throughout the Academy and First Team.
- Ensure full compliance with WPLL, FA, and PGAAC regulations, safeguarding, and governance standards.
- Mentor and develop Academy staff to deliver high-performance coaching and support.
- Manage and evaluate the Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the Club's Foundation and Women's Team, holding stakeholders accountable for agreed outcomes.
- Design and lead a structured Coach Development Programme, including CPD, observations, mentoring, and feedback.
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team (sports science, education, medical, performance analysis, psychology, nutrition) to ensure player development plans are fully aligned.
- Oversee player transitions from the Academy to First Team with tailored integration support strategies.
- Chair a formal Player Pathway & Transition group to guide movement decisions across the development pathway.
- Act as lead coach within key development phases where additional technical/tactical input is required.
- Represent West Ham United Women at relevant FA, WSL, and international player development forums.
- Champion a culture of growth mindset, continuous improvement, and excellence across all levels of the programme.
Player-Centric Development Duties:
- Attend key training sessions and fixtures to monitor coaching delivery, player performance, and development standards.
- Oversee the design and review of Individual Development Plans (IDPs) across all Academy squads.
- Provide bespoke coaching for players in small groups or on an individual basis, particularly at transition or high-potential moments.
- Monitor and evaluate players on loan or gaining external experience, reporting on progress to the Academy Director and Head of Women's Football.
- Work closely with the Women's First Team Head Coach/Manager and Academy Director to ensure seamless alignment of pathway objectives.
- Support the identification and progression of talent, shifting the focus towards long-term development and progression rather than early recruitment.
Essential Qualifications:
- UEFA A Licence
- FA Advanced Youth Award (or Scottish equivalent)
- FA Safeguarding & Welfare Certification (or willingness to obtain prior to start)
Experience & Attributes
Required Experience:
- Proven track record in developing female players in a high-performance or elite setting
- Experience mentoring coaches and leading football development programmes
- Strong working knowledge of performance analysis tools such as HUDL
- Demonstrated ability to implement long-term development strategies for players and staff
Personal Attributes:
- Clear, confident, and inspiring communicator
- Highly organised with excellent planning, leadership, and analytical skills
- Passionate about raising standards and driving innovation in women's football
- Committed to personal growth and the development of others
- Fully aligned with West Ham United's values, vision, and commitment to equality, inclusion, and excellence
Safeguarding Commitment
We're committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding children and adults at risk. This role is subject to enhanced DBS checks and reference
verification.
Other information:Benefits on offer (may vary based on contract type and location)
- 25 days annual leave plus your birthday off
- Pension and life insurance
- Healthcare cash scheme
- Travel season ticket loan
- Cycle to work scheme
- Priority access to apply for match tickets
- Discounted season tickets
- Staff discounts in the club store, café and our official partners products and services
- Discounted gym membership and onsite fitness room facilities
- Family friendly leave policies
- Company Social events
EDI Statement
The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, aligning with the organisation's business and tactical approach to eliminating barriers and addressing inequity. You agree to actively contribute to creating a discrimination-free and inclusive environment, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and benefits, while fostering a culture of dignity and respect that enables everyone to perform and achieve their potential.
Candidates must demonstrate their capability and willingness to uphold best practices and procedures, promoting lasting positive change while eliminating biases and barriers to attracting, achieving, and supporting talent from all communities, regardless of background, circumstances, or protected characteristics.
Safeguarding
The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk of harm across all stakeholders. Everyone, including third parties who work with the Club or the West Ham Foundation, is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Successful candidates must undergo essential background checks before starting their employment, which may include screening of social media. The type of DBS check required will depend on the responsibilities of the position and may be basic, standard, or enhanced.
The successful candidate agrees to proactively identify and respond appropriately to any concerns, and follow the Club's Safeguarding reporting procedures to report allegations of abuse, poor practice, or anything that may impact the welfare of a child, young person, or adult at risk without delay, within 24 hours, or as otherwise directed by the Club's or the West Ham Foundation Safeguarding Team.
Applications:
To apply, please submit your application via our careers portal:
Deadline: 5pm Wednesday 22nd October 2025
Please note: Due to the high volume of applications expected, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Head Squash Coach & Player Development Manager
Posted 20 days ago
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Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement comprehensive training programs tailored to athletes of all levels, including junior, amateur, and professional players.
- Conduct individual and group coaching sessions, focusing on technical skills, tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude.
- Identify and recruit talented players, actively contributing to the growth and reputation of the squash club.
- Monitor athlete progress, providing regular feedback and performance analysis to drive continuous improvement.
- Manage and mentor assistant coaches, ensuring high standards of coaching delivery and professional development.
- Organize and lead training camps, tournaments, and team events, both domestically and potentially internationally.
- Develop and manage the departmental budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
- Collaborate with club management and other departments to promote squash participation and engagement across the wider community.
- Stay abreast of the latest coaching methodologies, sports science research, and trends in the world of squash.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance training environment.
- Extensive experience as a professional squash coach, with a proven track record of developing successful players.
- Relevant coaching certifications (e.g., World Squash Federation Level 2/3 or equivalent).
- Deep understanding of sports science principles, injury prevention, and nutrition.
- Exceptional communication, leadership, and motivational skills.
- Strong organizational and planning abilities.
- Experience in player recruitment and talent identification.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by training schedules and competitions.
- Passion for the sport of squash and a commitment to athlete development.
Senior Player Development Coach - Youth Football Academy
Posted 17 days ago
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This role demands a proactive and self-directed individual who can effectively engage with players, parents, and academy staff through virtual platforms. You will be responsible for creating a positive and challenging learning environment, utilizing modern coaching methodologies and performance analysis tools. Your ability to connect with young athletes, foster their growth, and adhere to the club's philosophy will be paramount. We are looking for a coach who is passionate about youth development and committed to upholding the highest standards of coaching education and player welfare.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, and evaluate progressive technical and tactical training programs for academy players.
- Conduct individual player development sessions, providing personalized feedback and guidance.
- Monitor player progress, assess performance, and set achievable development goals.
- Collaborate with other academy coaches, scouts, and performance staff to ensure a holistic approach to player development.
- Communicate effectively with players and parents regarding development plans and progress updates via virtual channels.
- Ensure all coaching activities align with the club's coaching philosophy and long-term player development model.
- Stay abreast of best practices and innovations in youth football coaching and player development.
- Maintain detailed records of player attendance, performance, and development.
- Contribute to the positive culture and ethos of the academy.
- Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection.
- UEFA A Licence or equivalent coaching qualification.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in coaching youth football at a competitive level, preferably within an academy setting.
- Proven ability to develop young players technically, tactically, physically, and psychologically.
- Excellent understanding of child development principles and effective youth coaching methodologies.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and motivational skills.
- Proficiency in using virtual communication and collaboration tools (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) and potentially performance analysis software.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage a remote coaching workload effectively.
- Passion for youth development and a commitment to player welfare.
- Valid DBS check and safeguarding qualifications.
Remote Lead Athlete Development Coach
Posted 2 days ago
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Head of Sports Operations & Athlete Development
Posted 2 days ago
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Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement strategic plans for sports operations and athlete development programs.
- Oversee the management and maintenance of sports facilities, equipment, and resources.
- Manage sports logistics, including travel, accommodation, and event coordination.
- Ensure all operational activities comply with relevant sports regulations and safety standards.
- Design and execute comprehensive athlete development frameworks, focusing on performance enhancement.
- Coordinate the provision of sports science, medical, and psychological support services for athletes.
- Identify and recruit emerging talent, establishing robust talent identification pipelines.
- Build strong relationships with athletes, coaches, support staff, and external stakeholders.
- Manage budgets for sports operations and athlete development initiatives.
- Lead and mentor a team of sports professionals, fostering a high-performance culture.
Qualifications:
- Extensive experience in sports management, operations, or elite athlete development.
- Demonstrated leadership experience in a sports organization or high-performance environment.
- In-depth knowledge of sports science, sports psychology, and athlete nutrition.
- Proven ability to develop and implement successful athlete development programs.
- Excellent organizational, planning, and logistical management skills.
- Strong understanding of sports regulations and compliance requirements.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Sports Science, Sports Management, or a related discipline.
- Experience managing budgets and resources effectively.
- First Aid certification and relevant coaching qualifications are advantageous.
Sports Performance Analyst - Elite Athlete Development
Posted 18 days ago
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Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
- Utilize advanced video analysis software to capture, code, and analyze match and training performance data.
- Provide objective, data-driven feedback to coaches and athletes on individual and team performance.
- Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Prepare comprehensive performance reports and presentations for coaching staff and management.
- Collaborate with the sports science and medical teams to monitor athlete load and inform recovery strategies.
- Identify tactical trends and statistical anomalies to support game strategy development.
- Maintain and manage performance databases, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
- Stay current with the latest technologies and methodologies in sports performance analysis.
- Contribute to the development of individual athlete development plans.
- Assist in scouting and recruitment by analyzing potential new players' performance data.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Sports Science, Performance Analysis, Biomechanics, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Performance Analyst within a professional or elite sports environment.
- Proficiency with industry-standard video analysis software (e.g., Hudl Sportscode, Dartfish).
- Strong understanding of sports physiology, biomechanics, and tactical analysis relevant to the specific sport.
- Excellent data analysis and statistical interpretation skills.
- Proficiency in data visualization tools and techniques.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- A passion for sports and a commitment to enhancing athletic performance.
High-Performance Sports Coach - Elite Athlete Development
Posted 3 days ago
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Qualifications:
- Relevant coaching qualification(s) from a recognized sports body (e.g., UK Coaching Certificate, specific sport NGB qualifications).
- A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Sports Science, Coaching, Exercise Physiology, or a related field.
- A minimum of 5 years of proven experience coaching athletes at an elite or semi-elite level.
- Demonstrated expertise in designing and delivering comprehensive, periodized training programs.
- In-depth knowledge of performance analysis tools and techniques.
- Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary support team.
- Excellent motivational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong understanding of sports nutrition, injury prevention, and rehabilitation principles.
- Ability to foster a positive, disciplined, and high-achieving training environment.
- Current First Aid and Safeguarding certifications.
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Lead Sports Performance Analyst - Elite Athlete Development
Posted 11 days ago
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- Lead and manage a team of sports performance analysts, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
- Develop and implement comprehensive performance analysis protocols for training and competition.
- Utilise advanced video analysis software and statistical tools to capture and analyse team and individual player performance data.
- Provide detailed, objective feedback to coaching staff and athletes on tactical execution, technical skills, and physical conditioning.
- Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and trends to inform strategic decision-making.
- Conduct post-match/event analysis, preparing comprehensive reports and presentations for coaching staff and athletes.
- Collaborate with strength and conditioning coaches to integrate performance data into training programmes.
- Research and implement new technologies and methodologies in sports performance analysis.
- Mentor and develop junior analysts, providing guidance on technical skills and analytical approaches.
- Ensure the integrity and accuracy of all performance data collected and stored.
- Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the performance department.
- Present findings clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including athletes, coaches, and senior management.
- Maintain a strong understanding of the latest trends and innovations in sports science and performance analysis.
- Master's degree in Sports Science, Performance Analysis, Biomechanics, or a related field.
- Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in sports performance analysis, with a proven track record in an elite sporting environment.
- Demonstrated experience leading and managing a team of analysts.
- Expert proficiency in industry-standard video analysis software (e.g., Hudl, Dartfish, Nacsport).
- Strong knowledge of statistical analysis techniques and data visualisation tools.
- Understanding of physiological monitoring and its integration with performance analysis.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information effectively.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- A passion for sport and a commitment to athlete development.
- Experience in multiple sports is advantageous.
Head of E-sports Coaching & Operations
Posted 20 days ago
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Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage all e-sports teams and coaching staff.
- Develop and implement comprehensive e-sports strategies and training programs.
- Oversee player recruitment, scouting, and talent development.
- Foster a positive team culture focused on performance and collaboration.
- Analyze game meta and develop effective in-game strategies.
- Manage team schedules, tournament participation, and travel logistics.
- Monitor player performance, health, and well-being, providing necessary support.
- Liaise with sponsors, partners, and stakeholders to enhance team visibility and resources.
- Ensure compliance with league rules and regulations.
- Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the e-sports division.
- Manage budgets and resources allocated to e-sports operations.
- Proven experience in e-sports management, coaching, or team leadership.
- Deep understanding of competitive gaming and popular e-sports titles.
- Strong knowledge of team strategy, player development, and performance analytics.
- Excellent leadership, motivational, and interpersonal skills.
- Exceptional organizational and project management abilities.
- Experience in managing budgets and operational logistics.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills.
- Ability to thrive in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
- Passion for e-sports and a commitment to ethical competition.
- Relevant degree or certification in sports management, psychology, or a related field is a plus.