Academy Data Scientist

This role will lead on turning complex football data into clear, actionable insights that support the Insights Department to make informed decisions across the Academy. Working across a broad range of data sources, this role will ensure Performance Analysts have access to reports and visualisations that enable effective team and individual analysis. In addition, this role will strengthen the Academy’s ability to monitor team and individual performance, as well as track player development through advanced statistical models. 

The Academy Data Scientist must have: 

• A BSc in Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, Computer Science or Quantitative Related Field.
• Strong proficiency in Power BI, Power Apps and Microsoft SQL Server.
• Knowledge of football analytics, performance metrics and statistical models.
• The ability to write code (R/Python) to create custom visuals.
• Experience operating on and building from large datasets.
• High attention to detail and be an innovate problem solver.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Strong presentation skills with the ability to create evidence-based case studies.
• Curious nature to football problems and motivations for continuous learning.

Ideally, the Academy Data Scientist will have: 

• A MSc in Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, Computer Science or Quantitative Related Field.
• Completed courses or modules in Statistics or Data Science.
• Experience using cloud-based analytics platforms (Snowflake or Databricks).
• Experience working in a football environment.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of the responsibilities of the role: 

• Develop interactive dashboards and reports using Power BI to enable real-time insights for decision making.
• Develop and validate statistical and machine learning models that quantify player behaviours.
• Ensure all modelling approaches are underpinned by robust, interpretable statistical principles.
• Design and implement metrics that quantify player and team effectiveness.
• Ensure efficient data storage, retrieval and processing of data.
• Work closely with the Insights, Coaching, Recruitment and Performance Staff to utilise complex data to inform decision making across the Academy.
• Build internal tools and visual applications to streamline internal processes and enhance workflow efficiency.
• Communicate clearly to non-technical stakeholders, translating complex data outputs into football relevant insight.
• Undertake continual professional development to ensure personal skills, knowledge and competence to fulfil the role.
• Ensure all work is completed in a priority basis, meeting a high level of professionalism, quality, and craftmanship.
• Stay up to date with the latest trends and best practice in data analytics to recommend new methodologies to enhance the Insights Department delivery.
• Continually look to develop and improve the Insights Department data provisions.
• Support the highest levels of safeguarding.