Local Recruitment Manager - Academy

Overview

Join to apply for the Local Recruitment Manager – Academy role at Manchester United.

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.

The Role

The Purpose

The Local Recruitment Manager is responsible for identifying and recommending players of interest for Manchester United Academy through the effective management and coordination of the Academy scouting operation in the U6–U14 age groups, both locally and (where applicable) nationally.

Working closely with the Head of Academy Recruitment, National Scouting Manager, Lead National Scouts, and supporting operations staff, the Local Recruitment Manager will organise and manage a team of full-time staff and casual scouts, oversee the identification and refinement of players of interest, and provide regular, evidence-based recommendations with clear rationale to the respective Lead Phase Coaches of MU Academy.

The Role

The key responsibilities include:

• Manage the Academy professional and grassroots scouting network to ensure effective coverage of all relevant leagues, games, tournaments, and competitions.
• Play a central role in scouting and signing decisions, providing written performance reports from live and video-based scouting (where available) on relevant players.
• Represent Manchester United Academy when appropriate, meeting and presenting to prospective players and their families.
• Ensure the Scouting Process and reporting protocols are followed consistently, with accurate feedback delivered via the Manchester United Data Management systems.
• Work closely with the Head of Academy Recruitment, Lead Phase Coaches, and coaching staff (U6–U14) to ensure recruitment needs and performance standards are met.
• Develop and expand the Academy scouting network to ensure Manchester United recruits the best local talent.
• Collaborate with the Head of Academy Recruitment and National Scouting Manager to contribute to a comprehensive domestic player knowledge database.
• Manage all information and content delivery to the Head of Academy Recruitment, including recruitment briefs, succession planning, target lists, squad reviews, and football-related presentations as required.
• Lead and monitor the performance of full-time staff within the local recruitment department, as well as area coordinators, ensuring alignment across all development centres.
• Compile and maintain up-to-date Target Lists, Monitor Lists, and Market Depth Lists for players of potential interest to Manchester United Academy.
• Support the Academy Scouting department in hosting player/family visits for potential signings.
• Manage the Performance and Development Review (PDR) process for full-time staff within their remit.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of Premier League and Football League regulations, particularly relating to player transfers, squad composition, and EPPP guidelines on compensation and migration.
• Promote a positive market identity for Manchester United with clubs, federations, families, and all relevant stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with the Manchester United Academy Scouting Internal Code of Conduct and all club-wide policies.
• Maintain professional conduct at all times, safeguarding both the club’s image and confidential information during and after employment.
• Undertake additional duties as reasonably required by the Head of Academy Recruitment.

The Person

Professional Experience

• Proven track record in youth football recruitment (preferably within an elite Category 1 academy environment).
• Strong network within grassroots football (Local Leagues, schools, community clubs, regional FAs, development centres).
• Strong network within Academy football across the north-west and surrounding areas
• Prior experience of leading or coordinating scouting teams at academy or pre-academy level.
• Background in talent ID and player development pathways (knowledge of characteristics at Pre Academy, Foundation, Youth Development).
• Experience of using recruitment databases and performance analysis tools to support decision-making or man management of all scouting systems.
• Demonstrable experience of collaborating with coaches, parents, and education staff to support holistic player development.

Knowledge & Understanding

• Deep knowledge of the local football landscape (Greater Manchester and surrounding regions).
• Familiarity with Premier League Academy rules, EPPP standards, and safeguarding requirements.
• Strong grasp of youth player profiles, including technical, tactical, physical, and psycho-social attributes.
• Understanding of diversity, inclusion, and equality challenges in football recruitment.

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent relationship management with local clubs, schools, and community groups.
• Ability to spot potential early (not just current performance).
• Strong leadership and ability to mentor scouts, ensuring alignment with academy philosophy.
• Analytical skills – Ability to manage the club systems to link with live scouting observations.
• Excellent communication skills (report writing, presenting, engaging with parents).
• High levels of discretion, integrity, and professionalism & representing Manchester United values at all times.

Qualifications (Desirable But Not Always Essential)

• FA Talent ID qualifications (Level 2/3 working towards level 4).
• FA Youth Modules / UEFA C or B coaching badges (to enhance understanding of development needs).
• Safeguarding certification.
• Full UK driving licence.

Key relationships

• Head of Academy Recruitment
• Academy Scouting Coordinator
• National Scouting Manager
• Lead National Scouts
• Pre-Academy Lead
• Academy Coaches (U6–U14)
• Academy Recruitment Analyst
• Academy Scouting Administrator
• Wider Manchester United Academy Scouting team
• Other Manchester United Scouting staff as appropriate

What We Offer

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

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 25th September 2025.

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.