Head of Academy Physiotherapy 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.

The Head of Academy Physiotherapy will inspire and act as a role model for staff and academy players, with the aim of developing and delivering a world-class standard within elite academy football. They will demonstrate a passion for youth development, applying a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to nurturing well‑rounded and physically robust players who are prepared to transition into the men’s team and compete at the highest level over the long term.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategy
  • Lead, manage, and develop Academy physiotherapy staff.
  • Design and implement physiotherapy strategies aligned with club performance objectives.
  • Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of physiotherapy staff.
• Clinical & Performance Care
  • Provide individualized injury prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation programs at the highest standards.
  • Ensure high‑quality player‑centred care aligned to each player’s stage of development.
  • Collaborate with coaches, athletic development, and medical staff to integrate physiotherapy into the multidisciplinary performance model.
• Analysis & Reporting
  • Monitor injury trends and provide actionable insights to reduce risk and improve player availability.
  • Produce high‑quality reporting to inform Academy decision‑making.
• Governance & Compliance
  • Ensure adherence to clinical governance, safeguarding, health & safety, and equality standards.
  • Maintain and evolve departmental systems to enhance operational efficiency and performance impact.

The Person

• Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy (or related field) with a Master’s in Physiotherapy or relevant discipline.
• Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).
• HCPC registration.
• ATMMiF qualification.
• Proven leadership experience within an elite or high‑performance environment.
• Extensive understanding and applied experience of Long‑Term Athletic Development in youth sport.
• Strong knowledge of growth, maturation, and associated injury risk and rehabilitation.
• Experience working within professional football or comparable elite settings.
• High‑level clinical expertise in injury prevention and rehabilitation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and educate.
• Collaborative leadership style, able to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development and innovation.
• Passion for developing young athletes and supporting long‑term performance outcomes.

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

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 sit 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 Friday 24th April. 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. 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.