National Scout (Greater London and Surrounding Areas)

An exciting opportunity has arisen within our Academy Recruitment Department for a National Scout to work across Greater London and the surrounding areas. The National Scout will be responsible for the identification of talent for Sheffield United Football Academy and will liaise on behalf of SUFC, following strategic observation of talent outside of the academy recruitment footprint.

The National Scout will be designated a cohort of football clubs across different levels of organised football that sit within their locality. The overarching aim would be to procure players between the ages of U16 and U19 years.

Role Responsibilities:

• Personally scout and play a full role in identifying and recruiting players who meet the criteria and have the potential to represent Sheffield United Football Academy.
• Produce a database of players from within the designated area that documents targets observed across Category 1 Academies, Non-League, Schools, district and grassroots football.
• Be aware of and comply with the standard operating procedures implemented by the recruitment department at Sheffield United Academy.
• Become competent on the internal scouting software platform to ensure a live record of games observed, and players recommended are tracked, monitored and reported on thereafter.
• Ensure all player reports cover all dimensions of performance and potential (technical, physical, psychological and social).
• Keep the Head of Recruitment informed of all planned fixtures so that permissions can be gained, and protocols adhered to.
• Contribute to a quarterly report compiled by the Head of Recruitment providing evidence on progress, success and issues.
• Actively participate in regular scout meetings and clearly articulate rationale and informed conclusions on players.
• Create a network of club, scouting and intermediary contacts to support the scouting process and allow for gathering intelligence quickly.
• Develop an understanding of the players already at the club, as well as an excellent knowledge of the team's playing styles at Academy and First Team level.

Club Wide Responsibilities:

• To adhere to all Sheffield United Football Club's Safeguarding Policies and Procedures to foster an environment which protects from harm those defined as children and adults at risk.
• To report any concerns of a Safeguarding nature to the relevant parties and remain fully compliant with any applicable Safeguarding checks and due diligence and recognise your responsibility to the Club's Safeguarding agenda.
• To report any concerns of discrimination to the relevant parties and promote a welcoming and inclusive club environment for all.
• To adhere to the Club's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policies, supporting the Club to create an environment which is inclusive and all-encompassing.

The Following Criteria are Essential for the Role:

• The FA Talent ID Level 2 qualification
• The FA Safeguarding Certificate
• The postholder will be required to complete a basic criminal record check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
• Experience of working in a recruitment capacity in a professional football club
• Sound knowledge of youth development rules and regulations with regards to scouting young players
• Reliable with excellent personal and communication skills
• A willingness to work unsociable hours, evenings, and weekends
• Full driving license

The Following Criteria are Desirable for the Role:

• Evidence of technical and tactical understanding of Football from coaching qualifications, previous employment or playing experience
• The FA Talent ID Level 3 qualification