Player Wellbeing Officer in Stretford

Manchester United Football Club aims to produce a Women’s First Team that succeeds, entertains, innovates and inspires. To achieve this we need to recruit, train and play to win. The purpose of this role is to contribute to a winning women’s first team by ensuring the Academy players in the PGA phase (U16 and U21s) have high quality access to psychosocial support.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Performance Wellbeing support programme within the PGA.
• Act as an advocate and guardian of the women’s game, championing environments that prioritise wellbeing, empowerment, and lifelong success for female players.
• Work alongside players to co‑create the tailored support and feedback documented in their Individual Development Plans (IDPs) each season.
• Develop, deliver and/or coordinate a programme that supports the holistic, off‑pitch demands of progressing through the pathway into senior football and future careers.
• Provide evidence‑based and research‑backed wellbeing leadership across player onboarding, induction, and transition processes, ensuring players are effectively supported at key points of entry into and exit from the PGA.
• Provide performance wellbeing support that enables players to thrive in, through and beyond their playing journey, ensuring they are prepared for entry into the pathway, progression across it, and transitions out of the PGA into football or non‑football opportunities.
• Reflect and review the programme using evidence‑based and research‑backed informed approaches to maximise impact and ensure resources are used effectively.
• Ensure continuity of performance wellbeing support for all players, including those training or competing away from the PGA (e.g., ADRs and loans), and provide targeted input for players on Academy Contracts in line with the increased commitments.
• Provide player care support to players out on ADR; support the welfare, wellbeing and mental health of players in line with industry best practice and the club’s strategy.
• Manage the development and facilitate the Mental & Emotional Wellbeing strategy.
• Triage, screen and provide support to players with mental health issues and arrange onward referral in collaboration with the wellbeing team and club doctor.
• Create and facilitate a mental health, wellbeing and life skills development programme for players.
• Help develop and deliver the footballHER plan.
• Work within a multidisciplinary team to provide personal development and welfare support across MUFCW Pathway.

The Person

Qualifications

• BSc in one of the following areas: mental health, well‑being, counselling, social work, education, psychology (Essential)
• Certificate of one of the following memberships: Counselling EMCC L7, Executive Coaching ILM L7, Certification in Elite Athlete, L3 Lifestyle Certification, an equivalent mental health and/or wellbeing course/membership (Essential)
• Mental Health First Aid Certificate (Desirable)

Experience

• Working with young people in a development environment.
• Designing or managing programmes that support long‑term wellbeing, lifestyle or personal development.
• Child protection and safeguarding.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.

Personal Attributes

• A proactive and adaptable approach to work.
• High level of empathy and cultural sensitivity.
• Strong team player with the ability to work independently when needed.
• Passion for sports and a genuine interest in player wellbeing.
• Demonstrates a growth mindset and commitment to CPD.

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.