Head of Performance Analysis in Manchester

Location: Carrington Training Complex

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 Role

The Head of Performance Analysis is responsible for leading the performance analysis team and driving the strategic direction of performance insights across the first team. This leadership role involves overseeing the integration of data, video analysis, and tactical intelligence to enhance team and individual performance at the highest level. The role reports directly to the Performance Director and works closely with the 1st Team Manager and other senior coaches to ensure performance insights are at the forefront of tactical planning and decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership of Performance Analysis Team: Lead and manage a team of performance analysts, ensuring alignment with the club’s performance objectives. Set clear targets for the analysis team and support their professional development.
• Strategic Direction: Establish and implement the long-term strategy for performance analysis, ensuring that data and video insights are utilised to influence tactical and player development decisions.
• Match and Opponent Analysis: Oversee the in-depth analysis of match footage, opposition scouting reports, and player performance data to identify tactical trends and provide actionable insights for the coaching staff.
• Advanced Performance Metrics: Drive the use of advanced metrics and cutting-edge technologies (e.g., AI-based tools, data modelling, and predictive analytics) to enhance performance analysis and reporting processes.
• Tactical Collaboration: Work alongside the 1st Team Manager and senior coaching staff to develop and adjust tactical strategies based on performance data, ensuring tactical plans are well-informed and data-backed.
• Post-Match Reports and Reviews: Lead post-match analysis sessions, presenting team and individual performance findings to coaching staff, identifying strengths and areas of improvement, and discussing adjustments for future matches.
• Innovation in Performance Analysis: Stay at the forefront of technological and methodological advances in performance analysis, integrating new tools and techniques to continually improve analysis accuracy and impact.
• Collaboration with Other Departments: Collaborate with the Sports Science, Medical, and Recruitment departments to provide insights that support player development, injury prevention, and recruitment strategies.
• Stakeholder Reporting: Provide regular reports and presentations to senior management, including the Performance Director, the 1st Team Manager, and the Executive Board, showcasing performance trends and key insights.

The Person

We are looking for someone who has:

• Proven experience in elite-level performance analysis, ideally within a professional football environment.
• Master’s Degree in Sports Science, Sports Analytics, or a related field, with relevant certifications (e.g., BASES accreditation).
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in performance analysis, including at least 3 years in a leadership role within professional football.
• Proven experience leading and mentoring a team, setting objectives, and driving high standards of performance analysis.
• Strong understanding of football tactics, formations, and strategies, with the ability to translate data into actionable tactical recommendations.
• Proficiency in performance analysis tools (e.g., Angles, Piston, TacticPro) and advanced data analysis techniques.
• Skilled in statistical modeling, predictive analytics, and video analysis.
• Exceptional communication skills, able to present complex data to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong leadership, team management, and decision-making abilities.
• Familiarity with AI, machine learning, or advanced data visualisation techniques (desirable).
• Fluency in multiple languages is advantageous due to the club’s international scope (desirable).

What We Offer:

• 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

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 Thursday July 10th.

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.