Academy Transition, Loan & Player Development Manager

Academy Transition, Loan and Player Development Manager

Birmingham City Football Club (Academy)
Permanent | Full-Time
Location: Knighthead Performance Centre

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Birmingham City Football Club is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Academy Transition, Loan and Player Development Manager to lead the Academy’s loan and transition pathway strategy.

This is a critical role within the Academy structure, responsible for ensuring players are prepared, challenged and supported as they progress through key stages of their development. The role will oversee the full loan process, from planning and placement to monitoring and review, while also leading the transition strategy for players exiting the programme.

Working closely with the Academy Technical Director and multidisciplinary staff, you will play an important part in shaping player pathways and ensuring every player has the opportunity to develop in the right environment.

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About the Role

The Academy Transition, Loan and Player Development Manager will lead the strategic and operational delivery of the Academy’s loan programme and player transition processes.

You will identify and secure appropriate loan environments for developing players, monitor their progress, and ensure strong communication between Birmingham City FC and partner clubs. You will also support players transitioning out of the Academy by creating structured exit pathways aligned with football, education or career opportunities.

This role requires strong football knowledge, excellent relationship management and the ability to work collaboratively across coaching, recruitment, player support and administration teams.

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​Key Responsibilities

Loan Pathway Strategy & Management

• Lead and take accountability for all aspects of the Academy loan programme
• Develop and implement a structured loan pathway strategy aligned with individual player development plans
• Identify and secure appropriate loan environments based on playing style, competitive level and development objectives
• Build and maintain strong relationships with loan clubs, agents and external stakeholders
• Monitor the progress and wellbeing of players on loan through regular visits, match observation and performance reviews
• Establish key performance indicators to measure loan success and player development

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Player Transition & Exit Pathways

• Lead the Academy’s transition strategy for players leaving the programme
• Manage the Next Steps Committee to support structured player progression and exit planning
• Develop individual transition plans aligned to each player’s next club, education or career pathway
• Support players and their families through the off-boarding process, ensuring clarity and support during this transition

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Player Development & Collaboration

• Work closely with the Academy MDT to prepare players for loan placements and transitions
• Support the delivery of individual development plans alongside coaching staff
• Maintain strong relationships with Academy coaches, recruitment staff and football operations teams
• Contribute insight and recommendations to Academy leadership to support pathway and squad planning

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Compliance, Administration & Reporting

• Ensure full compliance with FA, EFL and FIFA regulations in relation to loans and player movement
• Work closely with the Club Secretary’s office on all relevant football administration
• Maintain accurate documentation and reporting on loan and transition players
• Provide performance updates and reports to the Academy Technical Director and Academy Management Team

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What We’re Looking For

Qualifications

• UEFA A Licence
• Full UK driving licence
• FA Safeguarding Award (desirable)
• FA Talent ID qualifications (desirable)
• UEFA Pro Licence (desirable)

Experience

• Previous experience working in elite player recruitment, player transition or loan management within professional football
• Experience working within multidisciplinary performance environments
• Experience contributing to player pathway planning and development
• Experience leading cross-departmental processes or review meetings (desirable)

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of the football pyramid and player development pathways
• Knowledge of Professional Development Phase (PDP) environments
• Strong organisational and reporting capability
• Ability to analyse player performance and development needs
• Experience using football data and analysis tools such as Wyscout (desirable)
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills

Personal Qualities

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Strong football knowledge and passion for player development
• Influential communicator able to build relationships with players, families and clubs
• Innovative and proactive approach to problem-solving
• Comfortable working independently within a fast-paced football environment

Additional Information

• Applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK
• Full and clean UK driving licence required
• Successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check

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Safeguarding & Equality

Birmingham City FC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.