At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Academy Recruitment team to identify and secure top young football talent.
- Company: Join the iconic Manchester United, a global leader in football excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy wellness support, exclusive discounts, gym access, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with a commitment to personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of football by shaping the next generation of players.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in football recruitment and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: Carrington Training Complex - (with regional, Uk & international travel)
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 RoleThe 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Adhere to the Academy Scouting Code of Conduct and all club policies.
- Maintain confidentiality and safeguard the club’s reputation.
Director of Football, Director of Recruitment, Academy Director, Recruitment Managers, Scouts, Analysts, and Technical Staff.
The Person Skills & Experience- 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.
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+ 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 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
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.
#J-18808-LjbffrHead of Academy Recruitment in Manchester employer: Manchester United
At Manchester United, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our iconic Carrington Training Complex. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, including wellness support, career development opportunities, and a culture that champions diversity and inclusion. Join us in shaping the future of football while enjoying a collaborative atmosphere that fosters personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Academy Recruitment in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Academy Recruitment in Manchester
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 Manchester United 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 Manchester United
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sports
When chatting with Manchester United, 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.
