Briton Ferry Llansawel AFC is seeking to appoint an ambitious, highly motivated, and forward-thinking Head of Academy and Football Administration to lead the development and delivery of our FAW Academy programme, whilst overseeing the day-to-day operations of the football club. This is a pivotal leadership position within the club, ensuring we provide a high-quality pathway for talented young players to progress towards senior football in the Cymru Premier and beyond.
Position Title:
Head of Academy & Football Administration
Reports To:
CEO / Club Board
Location:
Renewable Centre Stadium & Llandarcy Academy of Sport
Contract Type:
Full-Time
Purpose of the Role:
The Head of Academy is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and daily operation of the Briton Ferry Llansawel Academy programme. The post holder will ensure that the Academy meets all FAW accreditation requirements, delivers a clear player development pathway, and provides a safe, professional, and holistic environment for young players to maximise their potential both on and off the field. The Football Services element of the role will oversee the day-to-day operations of the football club, ensuring the effective delivery of football and administrative activities in line with FAW Tier 1 licensing requirements. The role acts as the central point of coordination between the Board, the club’s football operations and the Football Association of Wales.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Lead the planning, delivery, and review of the Academy’s technical, tactical, physical, and psychological programmes in line with FAW Academy requirements.
- Develop and implement the Academy Performance Plan in alignment with the club’s overall football strategy.
- Ensure alignment of the Academy playing philosophy, coaching curriculum, and player development model with FAW and UEFA guidelines.
- Lead on the commercial aspect of the academy in regard to sponsorship, holiday camps and other potential income streams.
Academy Operations
- Manage day-to-day operations of the Academy, including training, fixtures, education, and welfare provision.
- Ensure compliance with FAW Safeguarding, Wellbeing, and Player Care standards.
- Oversee Academy recruitment, talent identification, and retention strategies across all age groups.
- Maintain effective communication and collaboration with club senior staff, first-team management, parents, and external partners.
Staff Management & Development
- Line-manage all Academy staff, including coaches, medical staff, analysts, and support personnel.
- Lead the recruitment, induction, and CPD of Academy staff in accordance with FAW regulations.
- Conduct staff appraisals and performance reviews, ensuring adherence to club standards and Academy objectives.
Player Development
- Oversee individual player development plans (IDPs) and ensure effective monitoring, feedback, and progression tracking.
- Support the transition of players from the Academy to senior football, including integration into first-team training and loan pathways.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and challenging environment for all players.
Football Operations
- Ensure compliance with FAW Tier 1 licensing regulations (infrastructure, administration, finance, legal, and sporting criteria).
- Liaise with the FAW, opposition clubs, match officials, and league representatives on fixtures and operational matters.
- Manage player registrations, contracts, and transfers in line with FAW and FIFA regulations.
Club Administration
- Act as the primary contact for the FAW, Cymru Premier, and other governing bodies.
- Maintain accurate club records, policies, and governance documentation.
- Support Board and committee meetings, providing operational updates and implementing agreed actions.
- Ensure safeguarding, equality, and health & safety policies are fully implemented across the club.
Governance & Compliance
- Ensure the Academy meets all FAW audit and licensing requirements.
- Manage Academy budgets, resources, and facilities effectively and efficiently.
- Provide reports, data, and updates to the FAW as required under the Academy Accreditation framework.
Key Relationships
- CEO / Club Board
- Academy coaching and support staff
- First Team Manager and coaching staff
- FAW Academy Department and auditors
- Parents/guardians, schools, and local grassroots clubs
Essential Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum UEFA A Licence (working towards UEFA Pro Licence desirable).
- Significant coaching experience in an elite youth development environment.
- Proven track record of managing Academy operations or similar high-performance football environments.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to inspire staff and players.
- In-depth understanding of FAW Academy Accreditation criteria and youth development principles.
- Enhanced FAW DBS clearance and valid Safeguarding & First Aid qualifications.
Desirable Skills & Attributes
- Experience of working within FAW Category B or higher Academy system.
- Knowledge of EPPP/UEFA Elite Youth Player Development Models.
- Strategic thinker with excellent planning and organisational ability.
- Financial management and budget control experience.
- Committed to continuous professional development.
Safeguarding Statement
Briton Ferry Llansawel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The
successful candidate will be required to undergo FAW enhanced DBS clearance and
safeguarding training.
Terms & Conditions
- Contract - Fixed-term
- Salary - To be discussed / commensurate with experience
- Hours - Full-time with evening and weekend commitments
- Location - Club facilities and training venues
Interested candidates should submit a CV along with a covering letter outlining their suitability for the role to admin@britonferryllansawelafc.com by 5pm Thursday 18th September 2025.
