Head of Academy Recruitment

The Head of Academy Recruitment plays a key role in ensuring the delivery of an Academy Scouting and Recruitment Department focused on identifying and recruiting the best young talent regionally, nationally, and internationally who have the potential to progress through the Academy pathway and ultimately play for Manchester United’s First Team. The role is responsible for leading the Academy’s recruitment strategy, building strong relationships across the football landscape, and managing a team of scouts to ensure that Manchester United consistently attracts, assesses, and secures players of the highest calibre while upholding the Club’s values and safeguarding responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
  • Develop and implement the Academy’s recruitment strategy aligned with Manchester United’s philosophy.
  • Lead and manage the recruitment team, ensuring high-quality talent identification.
  • Integrate local talent pathways with Foundation, Youth, and Professional Development Phases.
  • Collaborate with Academy Director and Head Coaches on recruitment needs.
• Talent Identification & Recruitment
  • Build networks with clubs, federations, agents, schools, and grassroots programs to identify elite players.
  • Oversee scouting, video analysis, and data-driven evaluation.
  • Ensure recruitment aligns with coaching departments through Performance & Potential processes.
  • Maintain evidence-based reporting and track recruitment effectiveness.
• Operational & Compliance
  • Ensure all activity meets EPPP, safeguarding, and internal governance standards.
  • Maintain accurate recruitment databases and player target lists.
  • Collaborate with Operations and Safeguarding teams to ensure best practices.
  • Manage Performance and Development Reviews for recruitment staff.
• Collaboration & Relationships
  • Work closely with Academy and UK/National Scouting leadership to align recruitment strategies.
  • Liaise professionally with families, agents, and external stakeholders.
  • Represent the Academy at events and promote Manchester United positively.
• Leadership & Development
  • Contribute to Academy leadership, culture, and strategic decisions.
  • Mentor and develop scouting staff, fostering continuous improvement, innovation, and inclusivity.
  • Uphold Manchester United’s brand, standards, and professional conduct at all times.
• Compliance & Conduct
  • Adhere to the Academy Scouting Code of Conduct and all club policies.
  • Maintain confidentiality and safeguard the club’s reputation.

Key Relationships

Director of Football, Director of Recruitment, Academy Director, Recruitment Managers, Scouts, Analysts, and Technical Staff.

The Person

• Proven leadership experience in elite football recruitment, scouting, or player development.
• Strong analytical skills, with experience in performance analysis and data-driven decision-making.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Detailed knowledge of Premier League, Football League, and EPPP regulations.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team of recruitment and scouting professionals.
• Strong organisational skills, with experience managing multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.

What We Offer

At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+
• Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You

At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Monday 3rd November. Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks. If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you. It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.