Head of Academy Player Care

Gillingham FC Academy are currently recruiting for a Head of Academy Player Care. This is an exciting opportunity to lead, develop and deliver a comprehensive player care package in support of our U9-U18 players. The successful applicant will be part of the Academy Management Team and contribute to the strategic development of the overall Programme. They will act as the lead point of contact for all welfare, wellbeing, and player care issues across the Youth Development Programme and instil and develop the Academy values across all our phase players & staff. Core Responsibilities include: Onboarding and transition process for players and their families. Mentoring young professionals whilst on loan. Delivering Player Personal Development to all Academy players. Supporting coaches with their understanding of player care. Ongoing supervision and support to players, families and accommodation providers. Contributing to the Academy Leadership Team in a Head of Department role. To take lead responsibility for ensuring the core KPI’s of EPPP are effectively measured, assessed and achieved in line with the Audit process. Monthly department reporting. To support the holistic development of players and effectively use the IP/MyConcern software to record all data in respect of player development and care. To promote and develop the Academy values across to all players & staff. Any other duties as required by the football club within the reasonable demands of the role. Recruit and train host families to ensure accommodation is available when required for apprentices. Conduct regular host family visits to monitor the placements and ensure ongoing suitability, providing support to players and hosts. Develop and maintain the Mental and Emotional strategy and action plan, ensuring this is fully communicated with staff, players and parents. Be the Mental and Emotional Wellbeing Lead Officer for the Academy, managing and monitoring all related matters. Design and undertake training for players, parents and staff. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Develop and maintain the equality, diversity and inclusion plans for the academy. Arrange and deliver training for players and staff in these areas. Develop appropriate mechanisms to ensure players and parents have an opportunity to voice concerns or comments regarding individuals or situations ensuring protection of the right to equality, diversity and inclusion through review and confidential routes. Monitor feedback ensuring this is fed into the academy’s planning processes to ensure views are reflected in future action plans. About The Candidate: A pastoral expert with experience working with young people. Committed, enthusiastic and passionate about the development of young people. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. High emotional intelligence and communication skills suitable for players aged 9-18, families and staff. Strong IT and organisational skills and an ability to coordinate and lead projects. Able to adapt to the demands of the job and needs of the players and other staff. Dedicated to self-improvement and continuous professional development. Committed to working to and promoting the values & philosophy of Gillingham FC. Ability to work evenings and weekends. Qualification/Experience Requirements: Experience in a pastoral role working with young people. DBS clearance and understanding of the crucial nature of safeguarding standards in Youth Development. Ability to obtain relevant safeguarding and 1st aid qualifications. Full UK driving license. Experience of working in an Academy. Based geographically close to Gillingham. Mental Health 1st Aid certificate. UEFA C coaching. About The Club: All of Gillingham's policies can be found at:

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