At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and enhance player experiences on and off the pitch in a vibrant football academy.
- Company: Join Stockport County, a historic club on the rise with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts on merchandise, tickets, and access to professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young players' lives while being part of an exciting football journey.
- Qualifications: Experience in player care, youth work, and safeguarding is essential.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team contributing to a thriving cultural hub.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Organisation: Stockport County Football Club
Salary: £30,000
Location: Stockport County Training Centre, Stockport Sports Village and Cheadle Hulme School
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 11 January 2026
Stockport County is a club on the rise. For the past 11 years, we’ve finished higher every season, climbing from the National League North to finishing 3rd in League One. With bold ownership, a strong leadership team, and a forward‑thinking board, we’re embarking on our next chapter of growth. This includes significant investments in renovating our stadium and training facilities, and the recent reinstatement of our academy, laying strong foundations for the future. Beyond the pitch, Stockport is transforming into a vibrant cultural hub in the Northwest. Our town boasts a thriving and rapidly growing arts, entertainment, and culinary scene, making it an incredibly dynamic place to live and work.
Role Overview
We are seeking an enthusiastic Player Care Manager to join our Academy team. The postholder will support and deliver a holistic Player Care programme in line with the Academy Performance Plan. This role aims to enhance player experiences on and off the pitch, build strong relationships with families, and prepare players for future opportunities both within and outside football.
Key Responsibilities
- Planning, organising, and delivering a high‑quality personal development programme.
- Assist with the planning and delivery of SEP (Sporting Excellence Performance).
- Provide a visible player care presence on training nights, supporting players, parents and staff.
- Provide matchday support across the Academy programme, including weekends.
- Support the mental and emotional wellbeing of all academy players.
- Provide logistical support for players where appropriate.
- Inducting and exiting players in a caring and organised manner.
- Driving equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives across the Academy.
- Support and manage the Academy Host Family programme, ensuring strong communication, safeguarding and welfare standards.
- Coordinate external workshops and opportunities with key stakeholders such as the LFE, PFA and the FA.
- Alumni engagement and support.
- Maintain accurate records and contribute to reviews and reporting processes.
- Act as a trusted point of contact for players, parents and staff.
- Identify safeguarding concerns early and follow correct reporting pathways, including regular meetings with the club’s Head of Safeguarding.
- Promote Safeguarding throughout the Academy by use of inputs, training to players, parents and staff.
- Promote a player‑centred safeguarding culture.
Essential
- Enhanced DBS certificate (completed by the club prior to offer of contract).
- Player Care experience.
- Relevant qualification in youth work, education, sport, or wellbeing.
- Previous experience in safeguarding and welfare.
- Have completed FA Safeguarding Children training (or willing to complete as soon as in post).
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to use a variety of communication tools (verbal, written, digital).
- Be able to build positive relationships across the club.
- Strong organisational and administrative skills.
- IT skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Office and platforms such as Google Drive.
Desirable
- Higher Education qualification in a suitable area of study.
- Mental health first aider.
- Experience in social and/or pastoral care.
- Understanding of the EPPP (Elite Player Performance Plan) and its requirements.
Benefits
- Discount on SCFC retail products.
- Discount of SCFC season or match‑by‑match tickets.
- Access to online discount system perk box.
- Opportunities for professional development and growth.
- Be part of a dynamic and exciting team.
- The chance to contribute to the success of a historic football club.
Academy Player Care Manager in Cheadle Hulme employer: Stockport County Football Club
Contact Detail:
Stockport County Football Club Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Academy Player Care Manager in Cheadle Hulme
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the football community, especially those connected to Stockport County. Attend local events or matches and don’t be shy to introduce yourself – you never know who might help you land that Player Care Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for player care! When you get the chance to chat with club staff or during interviews, share your ideas on enhancing player experiences. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role and the club's vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready to discuss how you would handle various scenarios related to player wellbeing and safeguarding. Think about real-life examples from your experience that showcase your skills and adaptability.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Stockport County family. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Academy Player Care Manager in Cheadle Hulme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for football and player care shine through. We want to see how much you care about supporting young players both on and off the pitch!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in player care, safeguarding, and youth work. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with our Academy's goals.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stockport County Football Club
✨Know Your Player Care Basics
Make sure you brush up on the fundamentals of player care and welfare. Understand the key responsibilities of the role, especially around mental health support and safeguarding. This will show your genuine interest in the well-being of the players and your readiness to take on the challenges.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves building relationships with players, parents, and staff, be prepared to demonstrate your excellent interpersonal skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated or resolved conflicts, as this will highlight your ability to connect with others.
✨Familiarise Yourself with EDI Initiatives
Equality, diversity, and inclusion are crucial in any academy setting. Research Stockport County's current initiatives and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to these efforts. Showing that you’re proactive about promoting an inclusive environment will set you apart.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the academy's vision, player development programmes, and community engagement. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also helps you gauge if the club aligns with your values and career goals.