Job Purpose

The Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine shall be responsible for managing and delivering the Sports Science and Medicine/Performance Support Programme for all Academy players registered with the Club.

Report to

Report directly to Academy Manager.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Oversee the sports science and medicine provision for the academy
• Excellent understanding of ways to improve the physical profile of an athlete, along with the physical demands of football.
• Experience of leading within a multidisciplinary team in elite professional sport.
• Assist technical coaching staff with the design of training to optimise physical performance and fitness, and reduce injury risk
• Evolve the academy performance plan to allow for physical development and progression from foundation phase through to the first team.
• Lead the process of rehabilitation utilising support staff where possible.
• Oversee the provision of field-based, gym-based and classroom-based sports science interventions throughout the Academy.
• Lead the review & analysis of injury audit data, feeding back key information to relevant members of the multi-disciplinary team.
• Help create an Extras Culture for the players to maximise their available development time
• Collaborate with Head of Education to support SEP and HE qualifications each U18 has enrolled on
• Oversee the review & analysis of performance data, feeding back key information to relevant members of the multi-disciplinary team.
• Endeavour to meet the individual needs of players throughout the academy.
• Complete all Kitman Labs requirements
• Participate and lead in Academy department meetings.
• Provide regular CPD opportunities for all members of the Academy Sports Science and Medical Team.
• Ensure departmental KPI s are targeted and met
• Aim for self-development by participating in internal and external CPD events
• Shall have recent and relevant professional experience in a sports performance environment.
• Have accountability and responsibility for safeguarding at all times.

Qualifications

Essential

• A registered Physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• If they are a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions Council or a registered medical practitioner, Advanced Trauma Medical Management in Football ("ATMMiF") or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board

  OR

• The holder of at least a master's degree in sports science (or other relevant discipline) from a recognised university and have or be working towards British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences and/or British Psychological Society accreditation
• A current EFAiF or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board

All staff must be aware of all safeguarding and equity and diversity issues, along with all academy and club policies, rules and regulations. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and dynamic working environment by building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.