At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the University’s flagship hockey programme, coaching teams and managing recruitment.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham, a vibrant community focused on sports excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days paid holiday, volunteering days, and a solid pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team committed to diversity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on emerging talent in a dynamic sports environment.
- Qualifications: A Level or equivalent, UKCC Level 3 coaching award, and experience in sports development.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Full Time, Permanent
Closing date: 11th June 2026
UK travel may be required for this role
In addition, you will receive a generous package of benefits including 40 days paid holiday a year, one paid day a year for volunteering, occupational sick pay, and a pension scheme. We also have three high quality subsidised day nurseries.
Role summary
The role will be responsible for delivering and developing the University’s flagship hockey programme, working with the next generation of emerging talent to succeed across our BUCS and National Hockey League teams.
Responsibilities
- Run training sessions for women’s first and second teams, directly coaching the first team, with the support of an assistant coach
- Attend BUCS & National League matches of the first team and other teams where appropriate
- Lead regular multi-disciplinary team meetings with the Performance Support team to optimise development of the women’s players’ and teams’ performance
- Lead hockey’s overall recruitment strategy to attract the best players to the university, including identification of players, managing communications and attending key recruitment events
- Responsible for the recruitment, development and management of hockey coaches including mentoring, individual CPD plans, reviews and job chats
- Identify and propose appropriate hockey events which the University might bid to host, with the aim of helping recruitment, raising profile and/or generating income
- Develop effective links and relationships with England Hockey and home nations NGB to ensure player pathways are successfully maintained
- Work with the Club Development team to ensure University of Birmingham meets all relevant rules and regulations including but not limited to: officials; safety; facilities; and coordination of disciplinary cases
- In conjunction with the BUCS administrator, ensure the efficient coordination of club fixtures including liaison with the Operations team to support match day set‑up
- Lead and advise the club committee in the management of the club (including the budget), ensuring all values of Sport are upheld
Other duties
You will actively participate in job chats and personal development reviews on your own performance, and agree objectives and targets and work to achieve these within agreed timescales. Undertake any other duties that may reasonably be required, and which can be accommodated within the post holder's grading.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience
- Educated to A Level standard, or equivalent level 3 qualification such as Level 3 NVQ, or level 3 national diploma or relevant facilities work experience evidencing the skills and ability to undertake the role.
- Minimum of GCSE grade C or 4 in Mathematics and English at GCSE or equivalent level 2 qualification or relevant work experience evidencing numeracy and literacy.
- UKCC Level 3 coaching award (or equivalent).
- Due to the nature of the work undertaken in this role all successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory DBS clearance before appointment.
- An in-depth understanding of coaching styles and practical delivery.
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day‑to‑day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly.
- Knowledge of the sport's organisation at national & regional levels in the UK.
- Two years’ experience of working in a sports development or similar environment either in voluntary or paid basis.
- Understanding of BUCS rules and regulations.
- Experience of financial / budgetary responsibilities.
- Effective problem solving and decision‑making skills.
- IT skills including competence in the use Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Positive attitude towards CPD.
- Experience of successfully leading others, preferably in both direct supervision of other paid employees and of volunteers.
- DBS required
Equal Opportunity and Diversity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who we are and how we work.
Head of Hockey - Campus Services - 42883 - Grade 7 in England employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a generous benefits package including 40 days of paid holiday, opportunities for volunteering, and access to high-quality childcare facilities, staff are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to the development of future hockey talent in a prestigious academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Hockey - Campus Services - 42883 - Grade 7 in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the hockey community. Attend events, join local clubs, and don’t be shy about reaching out to coaches or players on social media. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got coaching experience, consider running a free workshop or training session. This not only showcases your abilities but also helps you build relationships with potential employers and players alike.
✨Tip Number 3
Keep your CV fresh and relevant. Tailor it to highlight your coaching achievements and any successful recruitment strategies you've implemented. Make sure it reflects your passion for developing talent in hockey!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re all about making connections, so don’t hesitate to submit your application directly. It shows initiative and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for the role right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Hockey - Campus Services - 42883 - Grade 7 in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Hockey role. Highlight your coaching experience, knowledge of BUCS regulations, and any relevant achievements in sports development. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for hockey shine through in your application. Share your experiences with coaching, mentoring, and developing talent. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the sport!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and potential.
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. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Hockey Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in hockey coaching and the specific requirements of the role. Familiarise yourself with the University of Birmingham's hockey programme, its history, and its achievements. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Coaching Philosophy
Be prepared to discuss your coaching style and how it aligns with the university's values. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully developed players or teams. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios related to team management, recruitment strategies, or conflict resolution. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working with various teams, so be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past. Share examples of how you've led multi-disciplinary meetings or worked with other coaches to enhance player performance. This will showcase your teamwork skills.