Stoke City Football Club of the English Football League are looking for a Head of Academy Operations. The role will be based at our Category One status Academy at Clayton Wood Training Ground.
Reporting to the Academy Director, the Head of Academy Operations will implement the Academy performance plan and drive progress towards our strategic objectives.
You will act as a strategic leader, overseeing operational excellence, ensuring regulatory compliance and managing key Academy processes.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the management of our Academy and contribute to the success of our young players.
The position will be offered on a full-time permanent basis with a degree of flexibility needed to cover evening and weekend work as required. All relevant training will be provided.
Main Responsibilities
- Supporting the management of the Academy Performance Plan and driving progress toward strategic objectives.
- Ensuring compliance with Premier League and PGAAC standards, including leading the annual audit and CASA system management.
- Overseeing the efficient delivery of all home fixtures from U9 to U21.
- Managing Academy transport and coordinating travel and accommodation for away fixtures with the Academy Operations Officer.
- Leading the Academy Tours and Tournaments programme in collaboration with the Academy Player Care Lead.
- Collaborating with the finance team on purchasing systems and monitoring staff expenses for policy compliance.
- Working with First Team administration to ensure the smooth transition of players between the PDP and First Team squads.
- Contributing to the Academy management team and preparing reports for senior Club management.
- Ensuring compliance with Club policies, including health and safety, safeguarding and betting integrity.
- Promoting a culture that demonstrates a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Key Skills and Experience
- Previous experience as a strategic leader in a professional football Academy is desirable.
- Deep knowledge of the Premier League Youth Development Rules.
- Experience of overseeing the PGAAC audit process.
- Strong leadership and management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational and planning skills.
- Passion for youth development and player progression.
- Ability to work collaboratively with senior management and multi-disciplinary teams.
This organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and DBS checks at the appropriate level will be obtained prior to employment commencing.
Closing date for applications is Friday 11th September 2026.
Stoke City Football Club endorses the principle of Equality and will strive to ensure that everyone who wishes to be involved in the Club will be treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, sex or sexual orientation.
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The Club is committed to providing access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in without threat of intimidation, victimisation, harassment, bullying and abuse. Any person associated with the Club can be assured of an environment in which their rights, dignity and individual worth are respected and in particular, that they are able to enjoy their engagement at the Club.