Job Title: Lead Academy Sports Scientist

Department: Academy Sports Science

Reporting: Head of Academy Medicine & Sports Science

Location: Training Ground - Jersey Road

Salary: Up to £55,000 plus benefits

Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first, we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable, we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development, inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.

Being progressive, humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.

We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas, solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.

We play in a brand-new stadium, 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.

We will never forget where we have come from, but we are excited about the future that lies ahead.

Come join us.

Inclusion Statement

Brentford FC is an organisation which values and is passionate about diversity and inclusivity. Whilst our recruitment decisions are always based on merit and suitability, we welcome and encourage applications from qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups – such as those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, women, those from the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Safeguarding Statement

Brentford FC is committed to equality, the safeguarding and welfare of all children and adults at risk. This responsibility is shared by all staff and volunteers at the club, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Staff will be required to undertake regular safeguarding training to enable and reinforce a proactive approach to safeguarding. This role requires the post holder to apply all relevant policies and uphold the club’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people to ensure a safe environment for all. This includes the timely reporting of any safeguarding concern to the safeguarding team.

Please note that where appropriate for the role, you may be required to complete additional background checks such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and this will include any time living or working outside of the UK in the last 10 years. You can find out more about this at https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record

The Role of the Lead Academy Sports Scientist

Reporting to the Head of Academy Medical and Sports Science (HoAMSS), lead a team of Sports Science staff in the design, delivery and continual evaluation all areas of physical and athletic development within the Academy, adopting an age/training history specific approach.

Main Accountabilities

Create and deliver a Physical and Athletic Development syllabus suitable for players across all Academy age groups, including age specific testing procedures and protocols
Lead a team of Sports Science practitioners in delivering age group and training history specific Physical and Athletic Development sessions, individual and personalised where possible
In conjunction with the HoAMSS, create and deliver a Sports Science and Nutritional support model suitable for players across all Academy age groups, including testing procedures and protocols
Report on all players for regular multi-disciplinary reviews
Work as part of a multi-disciplinary, Coaching, Medical and Sports Science team with an athlete centered approach
Close involvement with the Academy individual development programme related both to football, and to non-football related skills and player education
Report and record player screening and syllabus information and data on the PMA, in line with club and EPPP requirements
Close involvement with all members of the BFC Athletic Performance team to ensure continuity of player monitoring and performance plans between First team and Academy
Manage provision and maintenance of Sports Science equipment across all Academy sites
Work in conjunction with Brentford FC Research Centre whenever applicable
Work match-days with the Academy teams and travel on specific tours throughout the year
Have a knowledge of the Youth Development Rule and UEFA criteria, and ensure all relevant rules linking to the role are covered

General Club Accountabilities

To comply with all Club policies, including health and safety, data regulations and other legal, ethical and social requirements

To build and maintain good working relationships while maintaining a professional image

To keep confidential any information gained regarding the Club and its personnel.

To maintain a flexible approach to work at all times

Key Internal Relationships

Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine
Academy Sports Science, Medical, Nutrition, Psychology staff
Academy Coaching staff
Player Welfare
BFC Head of Performance
Academy Staff

Person Specification - Essential Characteristics

BSc in Sport and Exercise Science
MSc in relevant field
FA EFAiF qualification
Demonstrable experience of working full-time in elite academy team sport (min 3 years)
High level of communication and interpersonal skills
Experience of, and strong desire to work with junior athletes
Capability to devise and delivery a syllabus of work
Possess the drive and motivation to set high standards and achieve company objectives
Have a personable approach
Ability to liaise with footballers, coaches, management, and other football related individuals in a professional manner
Flexible and happy to work evenings and weekends.

Person Specification - Desirable Characteristics

Experience of working across multiple sports, not specifically football
British Association of Sports and Exercise Sciences Accreditation
UKSCA Accreditation
Full UK driving license

Please note you will need to complete an application form using the following link: https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:ee12383b-3016-36ff-822f-3e8d840ec55a

You will need to download the form and, once completed, re-upload it under 'Additional Documents'. Please note if you do not upload this application form your application will not be considered.

Closing date for applications: Friday 17 November 2023