Player Care Officer

About Us:
Sunderland AFC is more than just a football club; we are a proud community institution that embodies the
spirit of our city.

At the heart of our club is “The Relentless Obsession”—an unwavering passion which fuels our pursuit of
success, inspires our players, and ignites the spirit of our supporters. We embrace every challenge with
determination, striving to play the beautiful game with flair and tenacity.

At SAFC, we believe in the power of football to unite and inspire. Our commitment extends beyond the pitch
as we strive to make a positive impact through various community initiatives, empowering individuals and
celebrating diversity.

Join us on our journey as we continue to build on our legacy, fuelled by “The Relentless Obsession” for
greatness.

About the Team:
The Player Development Team at SAFC, are 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.

The Opportunity:
SAFC are seeking a Player Care Officer to support the delivery of a comprehensive Life Skills and Wellbeing
Programme for all Academy players, aimed at fostering their growth and enabling them to become selfsufficient and independent, both in everyday life and in managing the unique demands of being a footballer.
This role emphasizes the importance of developing broader identities beyond football, promoting holistic
personal development.

You will be responsible for building and maintaining effective, professional relationships with both parents
and players, offering relevant training, life skills sessions, and guidance to support their overall wellbeing
and development.

You will also play a vital role in player inductions and transitions, providing assistance to those leaving the
Club by helping them with their next steps and maintaining regular contact for a designated period postdeparture.

What We Ask For:
We are looking for a candidate who ideally has experience working within an elite sporting environment and
as part of a multi-disciplinary team. A relevant degree or equivalent qualification is desirable, along with
experience in supporting young people and their families.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrating the
ability to develop and maintain relationships with a diverse range of staff and stakeholders. Proficiency in
administrative tasks, particularly with the Microsoft Suite, is essential.

You should be empathetic, approachable, and supportive, with the ability to work both independently and
collaboratively as part of a team. A proactive, solution-focused mindset is crucial, particularly in terms of
supporting players’ long-term development. Finally, a commitment to promoting diversity, equality, and
inclusion across all areas of the academy is essential for this role.

An Enhanced DBS from Sunderland AFC and a Full, Valid UK Driving license is required.

Why Join Us at SAFC:
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.

As part of our internship program, we also offer the following benefits:
- 22 days leave (in addition to public holidays), increasing to 27 days after 5 years’ service
- Death in Service
- Complimentary Season Tickets
- Enhanced Paternity, Maternity and Adoption Leave
- Employee Assistant Programs
- Various Discount Packages including Club Store
- Free Parking