Research Manager (Coaching)

In 2011, The Football Association conducted a Youth Development Review which described a Whole Game approach to international team success. The four main components of this approach detailed developments in: Young Player Development, Elite Player Performance Plan, Coaching Strategy and International Team Development.

The review provided 25 specific recommendations and this post relates to the Coaching Strategy section and more specifically, a focus on researching and benchmarking into a range of issues relating to coach effectiveness, coach education and related coach development programmes.

The role of the Research Manager (Coaching) is to develop, manage and coordinate a comprehensive research programme that produces information to help guide decisions in coaching policy and which also supports the development of coaching resources.

The role will be responsible for the management of a range of projects and research activities which will support all coaches in both the National and Professional game.

This role will be based at St George’s Park (Burton-upon-Trent) once this is ready.

Specific duties for this role will include:

• Manage a long term research programme into Coaching in Football
• Manage and coordinate research activities across a range of University partners and consultants
• Conduct research activities in and around Coach effectiveness in English football
• Develop a comprehensive coaching library of information to be used across a number of FA distribution sites
• Develop resources for coaches and players
• Produce an annual report that can be used to benchmark a range of FA Coaching activities

Successful candidates must possess the following:

• Masters/Postgraduate degree (or equivalent) in appropriate area
• Demonstrable evidence of a sports/coaching related research background
• Excellent written and advanced communication skills

In addition, it would be highly desirable for the candidate to possess/hold some of the following criteria:

• FA Licensed Coach Educator
• FA Youth Award Tutor
• Experience of Grassroots/Professional Football, Player Development and Coach Education
• Coaching experience
• Understanding of FA Long Term Player Development - Four corner model

The position requires an ability to mix high level research skills with the coordination and management of networks working with a series of key partners.

Due to the requirements of this role, successful applicants will undergo a screening process that will include an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure.

To apply for this role, please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you are suitable for this role, along with your current /last salary by either email or post to:

Email: ResearchManagerCoaching@thefa.com

Postal:
Jane Hood
Football Development Division
The Football Association Group
Wembley Stadium
PO Box 1966
London
SW1P 9EQ

Closing date for applications to be received is Monday 17 October 2011. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 25 and Wednesday 26 October 2011 at Wembley Stadium.

Due to the large number of applications we anticipate receiving, if you do not hear from us within the next six weeks, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

The Football Association Group actively promotes Equal Opportunities in employment, and welcomes applications from all parts of the community. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process please mention this in your covering letter.