HEAD OF FOOTBALL SCHOOLS: CHELSEA FC
About the job
Job Title: Head of Football Schools
Organisation: Chelsea FC
Location: Stamford Bridge, London
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Closing Date: 17th September (early applications encouraged, as the role may close sooner if a high volume of applications is received)
ROLE OVERVIEW:
Chelsea FC’s Football Schools form a central part of the club’s community and global engagement strategy, spanning holiday camps, after-school clubs, international partnerships, and the flagship Player Development Programme (PDP).
The Head of Football Schools will drive programme development, commercial growth, and operational excellence across all Football Schools activity, reporting into senior leadership. The role requires an inspiring leader with strong strategic vision, commercial acumen, and a deep understanding of youth development and safeguarding.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the design and delivery of football education programmes for ages 4–18, ensuring alignment with Chelsea FC’s philosophy and safeguarding standards.
Own full P&L accountability, linking commercial decisions to financial outcomes.
Expand Football Schools through new formats, international growth, and digital offerings.
Develop and deliver a commercial strategy to increase revenue across courses, camps, merchandise, and strategic partnerships.
Manage budgets, staffing, facilities, and logistics to ensure operational excellence.
Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health & safety, and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with internal departments (Academy, Foundation, Marketing, Retail, Finance) to maximise integration with wider club initiatives.
Build and nurture relationships with parents, schools, partners, and community stakeholders.
Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing team of coaches, coordinators, and support staff.
Essential Qualifications & Experience
Proven leadership experience in football education, grassroots development, or sports operations.
Strong commercial acumen with a track record of revenue generation and partnership development.
Deep knowledge of youth development pathways and safeguarding best practice.
Excellent stakeholder management, strategic planning, and communication skills.
Degree in Sports Management, Business, Education, or a related field (coaching qualifications desirable).
Core Competencies
Strategic Leadership – able to shape long-term vision and deliver measurable growth.
Commercial Acumen – proven ability to maximise revenue and build partnerships.
Operational Excellence – skilled in managing resources, compliance, and performance.
Inclusivity – committed to creating accessible, diverse, and inclusive programmes.
Integrity & Professionalism – acts as a trusted leader and ambassador for Chelsea FC.
WHAT CHELSEA FC OFFER
An opportunity to lead the development of one of world football’s most recognisable club-led education programmes, combining elite sporting values with commercial growth. Chelsea FC offers a supportive, inclusive workplace with opportunities to innovate, inspire, and shape the next generation of players and fans.
How to Apply:
📝 Apply online via the button below before Tuesday 17th September. Early applications are encouraged.
