The role of the Academy Director is to provide a framework for the development of young players and to oversee the recruitment and development of players and coaches within their club's academy. The Academy Director is also responsible for managing the academy's budget and all its staff and is the key decision-maker when it comes to recruiting players recommended by the talent identification team.
Essential duties and responsibilities:
- Oversee and direct all technical aspects of Academy.
- Develop the Academy strategic plan, methodology and curriculum.
- Develop player development plans/pathways and assessments for each Academy player.
- Develop Academy Coaches and provide feedback and performance standards on a regular basis.
- Assist and support the Academy coaching staff as needed.
- Attend Academy training sessions to observe current players.
- Assist in planning and organization of Academy player trial weeks.
- Work with Club Scouting/Recruitment area in executing Academy scouting plan (identification, recruitment, and assessment of players).
- Work in conjunction with Club and Academy administrative staff in planning, submitting, and adhering to Academy Budgets.
- Collaborate with equipment staff to assess and analyze equipment needs and uniform needs.
- Schedule, lead, and facilitate meetings, and discussions with players and parents as needed.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with Club stakeholders and parents.
- Travel with Academy Teams as required, needed or requested.
- Make public appearances and participate in promotional and sponsorship activities on behalf of the Team (and its sponsors).
- Perform additional duties as requested.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management or related field.
- A proven track record of developing and managing elite youth development models.
- Demonstrated ability to teach techniques, tactics, physical and psychological components of soccer.
- Demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate and educate youth players and youth coaching staff.
- Advanced understanding of curriculum development and implementation.
- Excel and lead in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
- Previous experience coaching and/or managing a college or professional soccer team is preferred.
- Experience in both managing and functioning within a team environment.
- Excellent organizational skills; strong ability to convey ideas/plans as part of thoughtful and well-structured presentations.
- Must be available to travel when necessary and work a non-traditional schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferred.
CERTIFICATES/ LICENSES/ REGISTRATIONS:
- USSF “ PRO” license preferred.
- USSF “AD” Preferred.
- USSF “B” Minimum
- Academy Director license preferred
Interested candidates are invited to apply at CFC Academy Director Opportunity.