Head of Academy Operations
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About The Role
Head of Academy Operations - Job Advert
Plymouth Argyle are recruiting a critical position within our Academy team and seeking a driven and detail-oriented Head of Academy Operations to lead the day-to-day delivery of all operational aspects of our Academy. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to play a key leadership role as the Academy transitions to our brand-new training ground at Foulston Park - a significant step in our long-term player development strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
• Manage and coordinate all academy operations across Foundation, Youth, and Professional
Development Phases.
• Oversee logistics for training, fixtures, transport, accommodation, and equipment provision.
• Manage the use, maintenance, and scheduling of all current academy facilities, and lead all
operational planning for the transition to and day-to-day running of Foulston Park.
• Act as the operational lead for EPPP audit preparation, compliance, and the FIP system.
• Support safeguarding protocols, health and safety, and welfare logistics for all age groups.
• Liaise with key stakeholders including parents and external partners.
• Organise and deliver key events such as CPD sessions, academy events (e.g. Celebration
evening) and home fixtures.
• Work collaboratively with coaching, medical, performance support and education staff to
maintain high operational standards.
About The Candidate
Essential Requirements:
• Experience in a similar operational, administrative, or team management role within a
professional sports or educational environment.
• High-level organisational and communication skills with a proactive and solution-focused
mindset.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding, child welfare, and player development systems.
• Familiarity with academy systems such as FIP or willingness to learn.
• Enhanced DBS clearance.
Desirable:
• Experience working in an EPPP-registered football academy.
• Understanding of FA, EFL, or Premier League youth development regulations.
• First aid and safeguarding qualifications.
• UEFA B License & FA Youth Award (willingness to coach an Academy age group).
Person Specification:
We are looking for individuals who can contribute positively to our Academy culture and standards:
• Experience in a professional football or sporting environment
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills
• Ability to work under pressure, both independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to ongoing personal development and CPD
• Enthusiastic, passionate, and professional attitude
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
• Full UK driving licence and access to independent transport
• Ability to build strong working relationships with players, parents, and colleagues
What We Offer:
• A full-time leadership role with the opportunity to shape the future of Plymouth Argyle's
Academy operations.
• Involvement in the transition to Foulston Park, our new, purpose-built academy training
facility.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking working environment within a growing and ambitious
Academy.
• Access to CPD, club resources, and structured performance development.
About The Club
All Club Policies can be found on the Club Website: