Derby County are seeking to recruit an Academy Physiotherapist (U21s/B Team) to join the Academy Medicine & Physical Performance department at Moor Farm Training Centre.
Working for Derby County Football Club offers a unique opportunity to be part of one of England’s most historic and passionately supported clubs. With a proud legacy, a dedicated fan base, and an exciting vision for the future, Derby County offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment both on and off the pitch. Whether you're joining the team in coaching, administration, marketing, or operations, you'll be contributing to a culture rooted in ambition, community, and progress. Employees benefit from a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional development.
The successful candidate will be responsible for, under the guidance of the Head of Academy Medicine & Physical Performance and Lead Physiotherapist, working autonomously as a Senior staff member of the Department and leading the assessment, treatment, match day delivery and rehabilitation of PDP Phase (U21/B Team), assisting with management/delivery across the Academy (FP-YDP-PDP), and supporting the Lead Physiotherapist and wider department where directed.
Key Role Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate all medical, wellbeing, and health‑related support for the U21/B Team while contributing across the Academy age groups as required.
- Assess, treat, rehabilitate, and monitor players, ensuring accurate medical records, injury reporting, and compliance with Academy Performance Plan (APP), audit, and safeguarding requirements.
- Develop and deliver treatment, rehabilitation, injury prevention, medical screening, and health education programmes for Academy players aged 9–23.
- Coordinate medical screenings, Fitness to Participate assessments, pre‑signing medicals, and associated documentation for scholars, trialists, loans, and Academy players.
- Maintain player medical data, monitor physical development trends, and contribute to performance reviews and long‑term athlete development.
- Work closely with the multidisciplinary team (MDT), Academy Doctor, coaches, and performance staff to support player health, availability, and development.
- Support anti‑doping procedures, medical insurance administration, audits, compliance activities, and departmental record‑keeping.
- Provide medical cover for training, matches, tours, and Academy events, primarily for the U21/B Team while supporting other age groups when required.
- Contribute to staff education, mentoring, recruitment, induction, and ongoing professional development within the medical department.
- Support the Head of Academy Medicine & Physical Performance and Lead Physiotherapist with departmental operations, administration, strategic planning, budgets, scheduling, and service delivery across the Academy.
Personal Characteristics and Experience
- Knowledge and experience of working in a professional sports performance setting
- Knowledge and experience in clinical professional sports performance work
- Documented CPD
- Post‑graduate professional sports experience (desirable)
- Resilient, self‑motivated and driven
- Assertive and confident
- Team player with the ability to carry out independent work
- Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment
- Committed to high standards
- Knowledge of the Premier League Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and academy audit process
Qualifications
- BSc or MSc (pre‑reg) degree in Physiotherapy
- Membership to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP)
- Membership to the Health Professions Council (HPC)
- FA Level 5 Advanced Trauma Medical Management in Football (ATMMiF) or equivalent (hold or willing to obtain as soon as possible)
- Registered with the Disclose and Barring Service (DBS) Update Service
- Post‑graduate qualification in Physiotherapy
Salary, Working Hours and Travel
Salary is competitive, dependent on experience.
This is a full‑time role, and due to the demands of professional football, there is a requirement for weekend and evening work, as well as regular national travel.
Employee Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Two complimentary staff season tickets
- Two complimentary staff away memberships, subject to availability
- Discounts with select Club partners and sponsors
- Healthshield Cash Health Plan to support employee health and well‑being and Perks for great deals and discounts
- Participation in employee forum, ‘The Herd’ and Staff Events
- Training and development opportunities
- Access to programmes and volunteering opportunities with Derby County Community Trust
- Subsidised lunchtime meals at Moor Farm
Legal and Compliance
Derby County Football Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Applicants should be aware that this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Criminal Record Check.
Derby County Football Club is an Inclusive Club for all and is committed to Equality and Diversity.
Academy Physiotherapist (U21s/B Team) Derby County Football Club employer: Kick it Out
Kick It Out is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a positive work culture where passion for sport meets personal development. As a Football Education Coach, you will not only enjoy a competitive salary and generous annual leave but also have the unique opportunity to inspire and mentor young people in South London, making a meaningful impact in their lives. With a focus on growth and community engagement, this role offers a rewarding experience for those looking to contribute to youth development through football.
