Academy National Scout - North & Scotland

Location: Knighthead Performance Centre

Contract: Full-Time | 37.5 hours per week

Reports to: National Emerging Talent Manager

The National Scout plays a critical role in identifying, analysing, and recommending player acquisitions. This role combines advanced data analysis, video and live scouting, and a deep understanding of football performance metrics to support strategic recruitment decisions for the Club.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the National Emerging Talent Manager in developing and implementing the Academy’s National Scouting strategy through collaboration with key Academy and Club specialists.
• Responsible for an allocated region, with club, country, and position-specific responsibilities.
• Analyse player performance data using advanced statistical tools and software (e.g., Wyscout, Instat, StatsBomb, Sportscode, etc).
• Produce in-depth scouting reports and data-driven evaluations of potential player targets.
• Work closely with other Club scouts, coaches, and management to align recruitment profiles with tactical and strategic needs.
• Monitor domestic and international leagues for emerging talent and potential signings.
• Assist in maintaining and updating internal player databases and recruitment dashboards.
• Contribute to regular recruitment meetings with visual presentations and insights.
• Evaluate current squad metrics to identify positional strengths, weaknesses, and depth needs.
• Support due diligence processes for player signings, including injury history, playing style compatibility, and the production of player dossiers.
• Conduct live scouting and video analysis throughout the year, with a focus on age groups from U14 and upwards.
• Attend all Continued Professional Development (CPD) events.
• Actively engage in the Club appraisal process.
• Ensure compliance with all Club policies and procedures as outlined in the Staff Handbook, with particular attention to Health & Safety and Equal Opportunities.
• Any other duties commensurate with the grade and falling within the scope of the post, as requested by the Academy Technical Director and the National Emerging Talent Manager.

Key Relationships

• National Emerging Talent Manager
• Academy Technical Director
• Academy Head of Coaching and Phase Leads
• First Team Scouting Department
• Emerging Talent Team

What we’re looking for in you

Qualifications

• FA Level 2 Talent ID or above
• Valid Driving Licence

Skills & Abilities

• Strong football knowledge and understanding of various playing styles and tactical systems
• Good IT skills with the ability to interpret data and prepare reports
• Experience using football analytics platforms
• Proficient in data visualisation tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and statistical programming (e.g., Python, R)
• Ability to engage positively with CPD and personal development
• Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Demonstrable ability to manage time and prioritise workload effectively
• Strong relationship-building skills with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to drive and understand change processes and inform service delivery
• FA Level 3 Talent ID or above
• FA Safeguarding
• Degree in Sports Science, Data Analytics, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience in a professional football club or elite sporting environment
• Understanding of Football Academy operations
• Experience working in a high-pressure or fast-paced environment
• Understanding of player valuation and transfer market dynamics
• Demonstrates strong emotional intelligence and self-awareness under pressure

Personal Attributes

• A dynamic and forward-thinking individual who generates innovative ideas
• Collaborative and respectful, with strong relationship-building skills
• Accountable, reliable and focused on delivering to high standards
• Personally resilient and effective in a fast-paced football environment

Equality, Diversity & Safeguarding

Birmingham City FC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The safety and well-being of our players is our top priority, and we expect all staff to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be required to undergo a thorough background check and training in safeguarding as part of the recruitment process. Birmingham City FC is an equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer. We welcome applications from all sectors of the community and assess candidates solely on merit, regardless of gender, race, age, nationality, disability, sexual orientation, political or religious belief, background, or family circumstances. We promote a diverse and inclusive environment and encourage all individuals to apply. If you need any adjustments to our recruitment or interview process, please inform us when applying.