Academy Talent Scout

Job title: Academy Talent Scout

Department: Academy Recruitment

Based at: North West and Merseyside regions, UK. Flexibility regarding location is required.

Reports to: Head of Academy Recruitment

Hours of work: Casual – as and when required

Job purpose: To undertake general scouting duties on behalf of the Academy Recruitment Department.

Duties & Responsibilities:

·        To be committed to ensuring the safeguarding and welfare of all elite players, promoting their well-being whilst maintaining professional boundaries;

·        To assist in populating the Academy’s Regional Pre-Academy Development Centre’s with potential players as well as the Advanced Training Centre;

·        To complete match and/or player reports and any other necessary information in relation to games covered via the Academy’s PMA system;

·        To comply with the Scout’s code of conduct, ensuring compliance with the FA and EPPP rules and regulations;

·        To formally introduce targeted players to Blackburn Rovers Football Club in line with the Academy Code of Conduct for Scouts;

·        Ensure all relevant reporting documentation is completed correctly and on time before reaching the Head of Academy Recruitment and/or Recruitment Operations Manager;

·        Develop and maintain key relationships within grassroots clubs, private coaching organisations, schools, districts, county and international associations;

·        Help to develop and maintain the local, regional and national scouting network;

·        To watch and report on Academy and grassroots games, school games, private coaching organisations, and international games as and when required;

·        Contribute to the identification of potential talent in accordance with the Academy football philosophy;

·        Recommend friendly fixtures for the Foundation Phase and Youth Development Phase age groups;

·        To populate trialist fixtures when required;

·        To attend Academy Recruitment and Talent Identification meetings, training and/or workshops as and when required;

·        To liaise with the Senior Scouts, Head of Academy Recruitment and Recruitment Operations Manager to discuss findings as necessary; and

·        To carry out any such other duties as the Head of Academy Recruitment & Recruitment Operations Manager may reasonably properly assign or delegate in connection with the business of the Club from time to time.

Skills Required: 

• To hold a detailed comprehensive network of contacts both within the Academy system and at grassroots level;
• I.T. Literate; and
• Good communication skills.

Knowledge Required: 

• To hold an in-depth knowledge of football activities within your designated area including academies and grassroots;
• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and protocols; and
• To update knowledge of and be familiar with the standard of signed players at the Academy at regular intervals.

Qualifications Required: 

• FA Talent Identification Certificate; and
• FA Safeguarding Children Workshop.

DBS Check Required: 

Yes (enhanced)

How to Apply
Due to high-levels of interest, this post may close early so early application is advised, otherwise the closing date for this role is 5pm on Friday 5th April 2024. To apply, please submit your application through the EFL I-Recruit platformHERE