Role Purpose
Lead, manage and develop the Academy Performance Department across U9-U18, providing strategic oversight of Physical Development, Sports Science and Medicine services. Ensure delivery of an integrated, evidence-based performance programme aligned to the Club Academy Plan, EPPP requirements and club philosophy whilst contributing as a member of the Academy Management Team.
Location
Training & Match Venues as currently in use by the Academy, Betwright Stadium E10 5NF, and remote working (away games).
Working pattern
40 Hours per week which will include being:
- Required to work outside of normal hours, at least two evenings, at weekends, on bank holidays and public holidays.
- Required to work mobile.
Role Overview & Responsibilities
Academy Management Team Responsibilities
- Act as a member of the Academy Management Team and contribute to strategic leadership, planning and governance.
- Support delivery of the Club Academy Plan and Academy objectives.
- Provide performance and medical updates to Academy leadership.
- Contribute to staffing, succession planning and resource allocation.
- Provide performance and medical updates to Academy leadership and contribute to cross-club discussions regarding emerging talent and player readiness for First Team involvement.
Key Leadership Responsibilities
- Lead Academy Performance strategy across all phases.
- Line manage Physical Development, Sports Science and Medical staff, interns and students.
- Ensure EPPP compliance and support audits.
- Manage departmental budgets, resources and equipment.
- Lead multidisciplinary working across coaching, performance and medical services, ensuring effective collaboration and alignment with First Team staff where appropriate.
Performance & Medical Leadership
- Maintain regular communication with the Football Club Head of Medical and First Team Strength & Conditioning staff to support integrated player development, rehabilitation and progression pathways.
- Provide strategic oversight of Sports Science and Medicine services.
- Oversee injury surveillance, rehabilitation and return-to-play processes.
- Monitor player availability and departmental KPIs.
- Lead MDT case review meetings.
- Ensure medical governance, record keeping and emergency planning compliance.
Technical Responsibilities
- Collaborate with First Team staff to support the physical preparation, monitoring and progression of players transitioning between Academy and First Team environments.
- Lead physical testing, monitoring and benchmarking.
- Oversee GPS, workload, growth, maturation and bio-banding programmes.
- Lead collection and reporting of performance data.
- Develop individual performance plans.
- Lead nutrition, recovery and lifestyle education.
Please note: We reserve the right to commence interviews and close this vacancy prior to the advertised closing date should a suitable candidate be identified. We therefore encourage interested applicants to submit their application as early as possible.