Professional Development Phase Coach

JOB DESCRIPTION

About the Role

Join our academy as Professional Development Phase Coach. This position offers the opportunity to directly impact player development at a crucial stage while driving data-driven decision making across our academy structure.

As PDP Coach, you'll lead one of our most important age groups through the critical transition toward senior football, developing players both on and off the pitch whilst providing insights that enhance coaching effectiveness and player development across the U17 and U18 age groups.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an ambitious coach to shape the future of our academy through innovative coaching practices.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Development

· Programme Leadership: Lead on the U17's coaching programme, implementing age-appropriate technical and tactical development strategies

· Session Design: Plan, deliver, and evaluate high-quality training sessions that prepare players for senior football transitions

· Match Management: Take full responsibility for U17's matchday preparation, team selection, and in-game management

· Individual Development: Create personalised development plans for each player, tracking progress and identifying pathways to senior football

Player Welfare & Growth

· Holistic Development: Support players' physical, technical, tactical, and psychological development during this critical transition phase

· Mentorship: Provide guidance on professional football career pathways and life skills development

· Performance Monitoring: Continuously assess player readiness for progression to senior levels

· Collaboration: Work closely with academy staff, education providers, and parents to ensure comprehensive player support

Work Environment

Primary Locations:

· Training facilities (Studley Sports Centre, Studley, B80 7BF)

· Match venues (home and away)

· Office environment

Schedule: Part-time position aligned with academy season (August – May), requiring flexibility, including evenings, and travel for fixtures

Essential Requirements

Coaching Qualifications

· UEFA 'B' Licence (minimum) or commitment to complete within 12 months

· FA Licensed Coaches Club membership

· Youth coaching qualifications (FA Youth Awards or equivalent)

Analysis Qualifications & Skills

· Proficiency in video analysis software (VEO, Hudl, etc.)

· Advanced Microsoft Office skills (particularly Excel for data)

Experience

· Minimum 3 years coaching experience at academy or semi-professional level

· Demonstrated success in player development and team management

· Experience working with 16-18 year old players

Personal Attributes

· Strong leadership and communication skills

· Analytical mindset with attention to detail

· Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights

· Collaborative approach to working with coaching staff

· Adaptability and innovation in methodology

Desirable Qualifications

· Advanced Coaching: UEFA A Licence or working toward completion

· Education: Master's degree in Performance Analysis or Sports Science

· Experience: Previous academy or professional club experience

What We Offer

· Professional development opportunities , including continued education support

· Clear career progression pathways within the academy structure

· Opportunity to shape the future direction of players

· Flexible working arrangements aligned with the academy season schedule

Application Details

Employment Type: SLA Consultancy Agreement

Contract Duration: Until 17th May 2025

Start Date: Immediate

Salary: £12,500 per annum (pro-rated based on start date)

Working Pattern: Part-time, seasonal position

To apply, please submit:

· Current CV detailing coaching and analysis experience

· Covering letter outlining your vision for both roles

· Examples of previous analysis work (where possible)

· References from current/previous employers

To Myles Cooper.

myles.cooper@solihullmoorsfc.co.uk

Our Commitment

We are committed to developing exceptional young footballers while maintaining the highest standards of welfare and education. This role offers the unique opportunity to combine tactical expertise with analytical innovation, directly contributing to player pathways and academy excellence.

This position requires an Enhanced DBS check and commitment to safeguarding young people. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion.