At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Sports Science team to optimise player performance and physical development.
- Company: Join Forest Green Rovers FC, the world's first vegan football club with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy healthcare, generous pension, hybrid working, and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to changing the game for the better.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in elite sports while promoting sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in Sports Science or related field; experience in elite sports required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
The Head of Sports Science will be responsible for ensuring that the highest standards are maintained in the Sports Science and physical performance support provided to the First Team at Forest Green Rovers FC.
The role will lead the development and delivery of the Club’s Sports Science provision, combining strategic leadership with hands-on delivery across pitch-based, gym-based and matchday environments.
The post holder will work closely with the First Team Manager, coaching staff, Medical Department and wider multidisciplinary team to optimise player availability, physical development and performance through evidence-based practice, performance monitoring and effective training-load management.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Sports Science provision for the First Team, ensuring consistently high professional and best-practice standards.
- Lead, manage and develop members of the Sports Science and physical performance team.
- Develop and implement the First Team physical performance strategy in line with the Club’s football philosophy and performance objectives.
- Work closely with the First Team Manager and coaching staff to ensure training is appropriately planned, periodised and adjusted according to physical requirements.
- Monitor and manage player training and match loads to support performance, physical development and availability.
- Collect, analyse, monitor and disseminate physical performance data, including GPS, heart rate, readiness to train, subjective, anthropometric and gym-based data.
- Maintain accurate daily, weekly and seasonal records of training and match loads, and physical testing data. Develop effective reporting systems for relevant stakeholders.
- Lead the planning and delivery of individual and group physical conditioning programmes, including training and matchday warm-ups and Strength and Conditioning provision.
- Develop appropriate recovery strategies throughout the training week and match cycle.
- Lead the First Team performance testing strategy, including field-based, gym-based and anthropometric testing. Use results to inform individual physical development plans.
- Work closely with the Medical Department to support injury prevention, rehabilitation and return-to-play processes.
- Oversee the Club’s performance nutrition strategy and liaise with chefs, hotel staff and other food providers to ensure nutritional provision meets performance requirements.
- Develop and deliver player education on areas including nutrition, sleep, recovery, physical preparation and other relevant performance topics.
- Lead the Sports Science and physical performance provision on matchdays. This includes physical preparation, monitoring and post-match recovery support.
- Support the development of consistent physical performance standards and processes across the Club, including appropriate collaboration with Academy staff.
- Contribute to departmental planning, recruitment, resource management and the implementation and evaluation of performance technologies.
- Facilitate and contribute to CPD to ensure the department remains current with the latest scientific and technical developments.
- Represent the Sports Science department professionally and contribute positively to the wider culture and objectives of Forest Green Rovers FC.
About You
Skills, Education and Experience
Essential
- An undergraduate degree in Sports Science, Strength and Conditioning or a relevant subject area.
- Significant experience working in Sports Science and/or Strength and Conditioning within elite sport.
- Experience managing, developing and supporting staff within a high-performance environment.
- Strong knowledge of physical training principles, training-load management and periodisation as applied to professional football.
- Experience using GPS and athlete monitoring technologies and systems, and associated software applications.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with players, coaches, medical staff and senior stakeholders.
- Ability to translate complex scientific and performance information into clear and practical recommendations.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team within high-level sport.
- High level of enthusiasm for working in professional football and a proactive approach to tasks and responsibilities.
- Ability to work in a high-pressure environment with a flexible approach to working hours and job role.
- A self-starter with excellent organisation and time-management skills, and the ability to work without extensive supervision.
- Commitment to evidence-based practice, continuing professional development and maintaining high professional standards.
- Full, clean UK driving licence.
Desirable
- A postgraduate degree in Sports Science, Strength and Conditioning or a relevant subject area.
- Recent and substantial experience working in professional football.
- Relevant professional body accreditations (e. g. CASES, NSCA, UKSCA).
- Experience developing Club-wide physical performance strategies, policies or processes.
About Us
We are an equal opportunities employer and committed to ensuring that all are treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, sex or sexual orientation.
FGR are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment fully.
And as an organisation we are committed to supporting staff development in this area.
Forest Green is looking to the future – Climate change is an existential threat, and we need to build a more sustainable world.
Sustainability is at the core of everything we do at FGR.
We’re on a mission to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of sport, and beyond.
Established in 1889, we’re also one of the oldest football clubs in the world.
That history continues with every season and every trophy, bolstered by the support of an incredibly passionate, global fanbase.
Those moments are only made possible with the right people; those who show courage, tenacity, ambition, dedication to their community, and independent thought.
As the world’s first vegan football club, doing things differently is a way of life. We’re looking for like-minded people that can help create the future our planet needs.
Let’s change the game.
What's in it for you...
- Healthcare plan, life assurance and generous pension contribution
- Volunteering day
- Hybrid working
- Various company discounts (including shops, days out and events)
- Holiday of 25 days (plus bank holidays) & ability to buy/sell days
- Cycle to work scheme, car pooling and onsite parking available
- Flexibility statement
The fast moving nature of the company's business means that from time to time you may be asked to perform duties or tasks outside of your original job description on an ad hoc basis.
This allows the company to use it's people in the best possible way at all times and helps the employees to make make their contribution in a changing environment.
Head of Sports Science - First Team in Nailsworth employer: Ecotricity Jobs
At Forest Green Rovers, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture. As a Commis Chef, you'll not only develop your culinary skills in a dynamic environment but also contribute to our mission of sustainability and community engagement. With benefits like a healthcare plan, generous holiday allowance, and opportunities for personal growth, you'll be part of a team that is passionate about making a positive impact both on and off the pitch.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sports Science - First Team in Nailsworth
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Communities
Dive into your local sports scene! Attend community games, coaching sessions, and meet-ups. Building relationships with coaches and team managers can help you uncover job opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Leverage Internships and Volunteering
Even though you’re after a full-time role, don’t underestimate internships or volunteering in sports organisations. These positions not only give you hands-on experience but can also lead to permanent openings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make your face known in the industry!
✨Visit Sports Job Fairs
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✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out openings on our site! Our listings will often include positions at excellent organisations in sports recreation management, including Ecotricity Jobs. Applying directly through our platform increases your chances of getting noticed by recruiters. Let's get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sports Science - First Team in Nailsworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sports and recreation shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the industry and how it's shaped your career choices. Sharing specific experiences, like managing a team or organising an event, can really make you stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, focus on any relevant internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to sports and recreation management. Make sure to quantify your achievements – did you increase team participation by a certain percentage or successfully lead a project? Numbers speak volumes!
Tailor Your CV for Sports Management:Use a CV format that emphasises your skills in leadership, teamwork, and event coordination. Don’t forget to include specific training or certifications that relate to sports management, as these can set you apart from other applicants. We love seeing candidates with relevant qualifications!
Express Your Long-Term Goals:In your application, we want to see your career aspirations in sports management. Don’t hesitate to include how you envision your future in this industry and how joining Ecotricity Jobs aligns with those goals. We’re looking for candidates who are not just a perfect fit for the role but are also excited about growing with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ecotricity Jobs
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sports
When chatting with Ecotricity Jobs, make sure to express your genuine love for sports and recreation. Share experiences that showcase your passion, whether it's managing a local sports team, organising events, or simply being an active participant in various activities. This helps them see you're not just a fit on paper, but also someone who truly cares about the field.
✨Showcase Your Management Skills
This role is all about managing resources and people, so be ready to discuss your leadership and organisational skills. Prepare some examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed a project, particularly in a sports or recreation setting. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to make your answers concise and impactful.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect case studies or scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. You might be asked how you would handle a tricky situation, such as resolving a conflict between team members or managing a crisis during a major event. Think through these scenarios and practice how you’d articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Team Collaboration
In the sports and recreation management field, teamwork is essential. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you work within a team and foster a collaborative environment. Share success stories where teamwork led to a positive outcome, emphasising how you built relationships and encouraged participation among team members to achieve a common goal.
