Academy Accommodation Coordinator in Sunderland

At Sunderland AFC, you’re not just becoming part of a football club; you’re entering a vibrant community fuelled by passion and pride. Our commitment to making a difference means you’ll engage with local initiatives that truly matter, allowing you to leave a positive impact right here at home. You’ll thrive in an exciting, dynamic atmosphere where every day is a new adventure filled with the thrill of football and teamwork. We believe in nurturing talent, so you’ll have access to training programs and mentorship opportunities. Our diverse and inclusive culture celebrates individuality, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. You’ll be part of a team that unites in the spirit of collaboration and respect, making your work environment both rewarding and inspiring.

The Player Development Team at SAFC is dedicated to shaping young talent both on and off the pitch. Our core mission is to provide a comprehensive education and development framework that empowers youth players to grow into skilled athletes and responsible individuals.

Join us as a Part‑Time Academy Accommodation Coordinator and play a crucial role in supporting the development and wellbeing of talented young players. Working 25 hours a week, you’ll oversee the daily operations of our Host Parent Programme, ensuring players live in safe, nurturing, and supportive environments. You’ll build strong relationships with host families, players, and their families, coordinating placements, conducting welfare checks, and providing ongoing support to promote personal and athletic growth. In this role you will work closely with the wider team to maintain high standards of care, safeguarding and compliance. You will lead efforts to recruit, train, and develop host parents, organising meetings and development sessions throughout the season. This is a flexible, part‑time position that offers a rewarding chance to help young athletes thrive both on and off the pitch.

We’re looking for someone with experience working with young people, families, or within welfare, safeguarding, education, or player care environments. You should be highly organised, detail‑oriented, and confident in building positive relationships with a range of stakeholders. Strong communication skills, the ability to work independently, and effectively manage priorities are key. A good knowledge of Microsoft Office, along with a full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for home visits, is essential. A genuine commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children and young people is a must. Ideally, you will have experience in elite sport, football academies, education, or residential care, and a good understanding of Academy Player Care and safeguarding standards. Experience in coordinating accommodation or welfare programmes, plus relevant qualifications, will give you an edge. We’re looking for a compassionate, proactive, and discreet team player who is passionate about creating a positive, supportive environment for our young players and host families. An Enhanced DBS from Sunderland AFC is required.

Location and Eligibility: Full‑time, on‑site role based at the Academy of Light. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Academy of Light, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR6 7UW.

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave (increasing to 27 days after 5 years of service)
• Death in Service benefit offering financial support
• Salary Exchange Schemes for tax savings and pension contributions
• Complimentary season tickets (two free tickets for all home fixtures)
• Enhanced Family and Parental Pay above statutory levels
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for confidential support and counselling
• Free parking at both the Stadium of Light and the Academy of Light
• Discount packages for SAFC employees through partner offers

Sunderland AFC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applicants equally. Our aim is that all colleagues should be able to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.

Sunderland AFC recognises that the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance within the organisation. Sunderland AFC has a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities organised by the club. The Club will ensure that safety and protection is given to all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities through adherence to the Safeguarding guidelines adopted by the Club. Importantly, safeguarding is a collective responsibility: from staff and volunteers to players and supporters, everyone is encouraged to remain vigilant, follow safeguarding procedures, and report any concerns promptly.