Swindon Town are looking for an experienced and forward planning Academy Manager to join the team
Location: Swindon Town FC, The County Ground & Training facilities
Reports to: CEO
Overview: Swindon Town FC, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Academy Manager to lead our Category 3 Academy. This is an exciting opportunity to take charge of the development of young football talent, managing all aspects of the academy's operations to ensure a high-performance environment that aligns with the club’s values and objectives. The Academy Manager will play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day activities of the academy, ensuring the highest standards of coaching, player development, and player welfare.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the Academy to ensure the development of young footballers in line with the club’s ethos, vision, and long-term objectives.
* Develop and implement the Academy’s strategic plan, focusing on the progression of players through each age group and maximizing their potential.
* Maintain compliance with the EFL’s Academy Performance Plan and Category 3 standards, ensuring that the Academy meets all necessary regulations and guidelines.
* Oversee the recruitment, development, and management of Academy staff, including coaches, performance analysts, physiotherapists, and support staff.
* Act as the key liaison between the academy, first team, and senior management, ensuring smooth communication and player integration pathways.
Player Development & Pathway Management
* Oversee the creation and monitoring of individualized player development plans (PDPs) for all academy players.
* Work closely with the first-team manager and coaching staff to identify talent for potential promotion to the senior squad.
* Ensure the integration of sports science, data analytics, and performance monitoring into the player development process.
Coaching & Education
* Lead the recruitment, mentoring, and development of a high-performing coaching team to deliver sessions that meet the standards of elite player development.
* Oversee the coaching curriculum to ensure it aligns with the latest best practices, the club’s tactical philosophy, and EFL standards.
* Ensure that all players receive the necessary educational support, including both football-specific education and academic development.
* Regularly assess and review coaching and player progress to ensure continuous improvement and high-quality training environments.
Welfare
* Ensure the welfare, mental health, and overall development of all academy players, providing appropriate support services such as psychological support, nutrition, and injury rehabilitation.
* Develop strong relationships with parents and guardians, ensuring that communication about player development and well-being is clear and effective.
* Promote the importance of life skills and personal development, preparing players for life both inside and outside football.
Compliance & Reporting
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of EFL and FA regulations and ensure the Academy operates in full compliance with all relevant policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, and player registration.
* Produce and deliver regular reports on the Academy’s progress, performance metrics, and key player developments to the Director of Football and senior management team.
* Ensure all academy players are registered correctly, and maintain accurate and up-to-date records for players, staff, and academy activities.
Stakeholder Management & Community Engagement
* Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including the EFL, local schools, and community organizations.
* Represent the Academy at club events, open days, and within the local community to promote the club’s youth development philosophy.
* Ensure the academy plays a central role in the community, contributing to grassroots football and youth development initiatives.
Why Join Us?
As Academy Manager at Swindon Town FC you will play a critical role in shaping the future of the club and its young talent. You will have the chance to leave a lasting legacy in the development of players who could become stars in the first team and beyond. We offer a supportive and forward-thinking environment that encourages personal and professional development.
About The Candidate
Key Requirements:
* A strong background in football coaching and player development, with significant experience working within an academy environment.
* UEFA A Licence (or equivalent) coaching qualification; further development qualifications will be advantageous.
* In-depth understanding of the Academy Performance Plan (APP) and Category 3 Academy standards.
* Proven track record of successfully managing and developing youth players, ideally in a Category 3 or higher academy environment.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage a diverse team of coaching, medical, and support staff.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with players, parents, and senior staff effectively.
* Knowledge of safeguarding and welfare policies, with a proactive approach to player welfare.
* Ability to work under pressure, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines in a fast- paced environment.
Desirable Qualifications:
* Experience managing or working within a Category 3 Academy.
* FA Youth Modules (1, 2, and 3) qualifications.
* Previous experience working in professional football, particularly within the EFL or other professional leagues.
* A background in sports science, nutrition, or psychology would be advantageous.
#J-18808-Ljbffr