At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead wellbeing initiatives for professional athletes, ensuring their mental health and support systems are top-notch.
- Company: Join the PFA, the players' union dedicated to footballers' welfare in the Premier League and beyond.
- Benefits: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for remote work and impactful corporate perks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in players' lives while shaping the future of player care in football.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading wellbeing programmes, strong communication skills, and relevant qualifications in mental health.
- Other info: This role can be based in London or Manchester, offering flexibility and a chance to drive change.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
If you think you are the right match for the following opportunity, apply after reading the complete description.
Are you passionate about supporting mental wellbeing and creating safer spaces for professional athletes? We are seeking a Director of Wellbeing to lead our efforts in supporting the health and wellbeing of our players. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of player care in professional Football.
As the players’ union for those in the Premier League, Women’s Super League and English Football League, the PFA is an organisation that prioritises the voice, welfare, and future of footballers. In this role, you will help shape the care players receive both during and beyond their playing careers.
The impact you’ll make
In this influential leadership role, you’ll direct the PFA’s wellbeing strategy, ensuring that our members receive the highest level of support and care—whether facing injury, contract transitions, or retirement. You will manage a team of experts delivering support and high-quality wellbeing programmes across the footballing community.
You’ll work across the professional game, advising clubs, partners, and governing bodies on wellbeing best practices. Your role will be key to embedding a culture of care, driving forward industry-leading initiatives, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders. You will also take the lead on safeguarding, ensuring robust and compassionate responses to concerns, and creating a safe and inclusive environment for children and adults at risk.
Your skills and experience
We are looking for someone with experience in leading wellbeing programmes in the sports industry. You should be comfortable shaping strategic direction and working across organisations at senior level. You should be comfortable engaging with individuals, conducting visits, and handling media interactions. You will also understand the challenges that people face in high-pressure environments and be committed to making a difference.
- Proven leadership experience in wellbeing
- Deep understanding of emotional health, safeguarding practice, and player welfare
- Experience providing one-on-one confidential support to athletes experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, performance pressures, or personal challenges
- The ability to create inclusive, proactive support systems and referral pathways
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Experience managing teams and complex operations
- Relevant qualifications in counselling, mental health, or related fields
- An understanding and experience of safeguarding
You’re approachable, values-driven, and passionate about helping others thrive. You understand the culture of Football and are motivated by the chance to lead real change in people’s lives.
This role can be based in either our London or Manchester office.
Ready to make a difference in Football? Click the apply button now to start your journey with the PFA.
Director of Wellbeing employer: Professional Footballers' Association (PFA)
Contact Detail:
Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Wellbeing
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the sports industry, especially those involved in player welfare and wellbeing. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet key stakeholders and learn about current trends and challenges in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and best practices in mental health and wellbeing, particularly in high-pressure environments like professional sports. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about your vision for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Be ready to provide examples of how you've implemented wellbeing programmes and the impact they had on athletes.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of safeguarding practices and how they apply to the sports context. Be prepared to discuss specific scenarios where you've ensured a safe environment for athletes, demonstrating your commitment to their welfare.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Wellbeing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of Wellbeing position. Familiarise yourself with the PFA's mission and how this role contributes to supporting players' mental wellbeing.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in leading wellbeing programmes within the sports industry. Emphasise your leadership skills, understanding of emotional health, and any specific achievements that demonstrate your capability in this area.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for mental wellbeing and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of athletes. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you can contribute to the PFA's wellbeing strategy.
Prepare for Potential Interviews: Anticipate questions related to your experience with safeguarding practices, stakeholder management, and creating inclusive support systems. Be ready to discuss how you would approach challenges faced by athletes in high-pressure environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at Professional Footballers' Association (PFA)
✨Show Your Passion for Wellbeing
Make sure to express your genuine passion for mental wellbeing and player care during the interview. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting athletes, as this will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles in wellbeing programmes, particularly within the sports industry. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you have shaped strategies and led teams to implement successful initiatives.
✨Understand the Football Culture
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges faced by professional athletes in football. Show that you understand the pressures they encounter and how your approach can create a supportive environment tailored to their needs.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in stakeholder management and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you would build relationships with clubs, partners, and governing bodies to promote wellbeing best practices across the footballing community.