Head of Social Media in Manchester

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Purpose: The Head of Social Media will be responsible for leading Manchester United’s global social media strategy across all Manchester United social platforms. This is a key leadership role, responsible for strengthening fan engagement, enhancing brand equity, supporting commercial goals, and protecting the club’s online reputation.

We are seeking an experienced digital strategist with a deep understanding of social media platforms, audiences and content dynamics, using strong editorial and commercial experience, and a track record of leading high-performing teams in fast-paced environments. A passion for football and a global outlook is essential.

The Role:

• Lead Social Media Strategy: Develop and execute a global, platform by platform specific strategy aligned with the club’s communications, brand, marketing, and commercial goals.
• Content Oversight: Oversee creation and publishing of high-quality, engaging content across all major platforms, ensuring editorial accuracy and brand alignment.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a high-performing social media team, fostering collaboration and creativity.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Partner with internal stakeholders to support an integrated content plan, club-wide initiatives and campaigns.
• Performance measurement & Analysis: Constantly monitor channel and content performance, driving change to adapt to an ever-developing environment, liaising with networks for HBR/QBRs etc.
• Community Engagement: Grow and engage our global fanbase through community management and influencer outreach.
• Creators Academy: Lead the club’s creator network, hosting events and nurturing digital storytelling.
• Performance & Insights: Monitor performance metrics, report on KPIs, and optimise content and strategy using data-driven insights.
• Reputation & Risk Management: Oversee social monitoring and response protocols, supporting crisis communication and brand protection.
• Innovation & Trends: Stay ahead of digital trends, testing new formats and technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
• Editorial Standards: Ensure all output meets journalistic and ethical standards, maintaining credibility and trust.
• Budget Management: Oversee social media budget, ensuring effective resource allocation and ROI.
• Network relationships: Constant communication with the social networks and exploring new opportunities.

The Person:

• Extensive experience leading social media for a major brand, preferably in sport or entertainment.
• Proven success delivering audience growth, engagement, and commercial impact through digital strategy.
• Deep knowledge of platform algorithms, content best practices, and emerging trends.
• Strong editorial judgment and familiarity with journalistic ethics and verification.
• Skilled in managing creative teams and cross-functional projects.
• Proficient in analytics tools and data interpretation for performance optimisation.
• Excellent written, verbal, and visual communication skills.
• Calm under pressure with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A genuine passion for football and strong awareness of the global football ecosystem.

Our Values:

• Badge: Earn the badge, every day. Respect our history and heritage. Be best in class and deliver to the standards expected of Manchester United. No one is bigger than the club.
• Bravery: Be bold, be brave, and take calculated risks. Do things differently and innovate. Lead by example and do what’s right for the club, even when it’s hard.
• Spirit: Embody the spirit of Manchester United. Show strength of character, act with passion, and fight back, no matter what.

What We Offer:

• Annual Incentive Scheme to reward your dedication and hard work.
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days.
• Electric Vehicle scheme via Octopus and cycle to work scheme.
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace.
• 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 policies.
• 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.