Department: Youth Academy
Responsible to: Academy Director/Head of Coaching
Responsible for: All Players and Staff within the Youth Development Phase (U13-U15) and the Head Coach of 15s or 17s Squad
Salary: Discussed at interview process
Overall purpose of the job
To provide strategic leadership and operational management of the Youth Development Phase (U13- U15), ensuring the effective development of players and coaches in alignment with the Academy philosophy, curriculum and performance objectives.
The post holder will oversee, support and develop all staff within the Youth Phase whilst creating a high-performance environment that maximises the technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social development of players. In addition, the role will lead the 15s or 17s squad, preparing players for progression into the Transition Phase whilst supporting the wider player pathway.
Duties and responsibilities
Leadership & Player Developmet
Lead, manage and oversee all players and coaches within the Youth Development Phase (U13-U15), and Day Release Programme ensuring high standards of coaching, player care and programme delivery.
Work closely with the Academy Director and Head of Coaching to implement, review and continually enhance the Academy's coaching curriculum and development programme.
Ensure all Individual Development Plans (IDPs) are regularly updated, monitored and aligned to the needs and progression of individual players.
Support coaches in identifying and addressing key development areas for players through regular observation, review and feedback processes.
Identify high-potential players within the phase and ensure additional and small-group interventions to accelerate development.
Monitor player progression and provide clear recommendations regarding retention, progression and transition opportunities.
Ensure all players receive a holistic development programme encompassing technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social development.
U15/U17 Lead Coach Responsibilities
Plan, deliver and lead all training sessions, match preparation and matchday activities for the U15/U17 squad.
Manage the ongoing development of U15/U17 players, ensuring readiness for progression through the Transition Phase and senior football environment.
Conduct regular player reviews and provide detailed developmental feedback to players, parents and relevant Academy staff.
Work collaboratively with Transition Phase staff to support player movement and succession planning within the Academy pathway.
Ensure the U15/U17 programme reflects the Club's playing philosophy and prepares players for the demands of elite youth and senior football.
Coaching and Staff Development
Observe, mentor and support coaches within the Youth Development Phase to enhance coaching practice and ensure alignment with the Academy's playing and coaching philosophy.
Lead and facilitate coaching support sessions, CPD opportunities and collaborative learning initiatives for staff.
Conduct formal and informal coach observations and provide developmental feedback.
Support the recruitment, induction and development of coaching staff within the phase.
Ensure appropriate coaching cover is in place for all training sessions and fixtures when staff are unavailable.
Operations and Matchday Management
Coordinate and oversee the weekly training and match schedules for all teams within the Youth Development Phase.
Ensure all fixture information is communicated effectively & efficiently to players, parents, staff, opposition clubs, referees and relevant stakeholders.
Oversee the organisation and administration of Academy events, fixtures and tournaments.
Work alongside the Head of Recruitment and senior Academy staff to assess trialists and contribute to squad planning and player retention decisions.
Ensure all operational and compliance requirements are completed to the required standards and deadlines.
Maintain accurate records relating to player attendance, development, fixtures and performance reviews.
Parent and Player Liaison
Act as the primary point of contact for parent and player concerns within the Youth Development Phase.
Manage concerns professionally, ensuring appropriate documentation, communication and escalation where necessary.
Foster positive relationships with players and parents through regular communication and feedback processes.
Support player welfare and wellbeing through close collaboration with safeguarding and player care staff.
Additional Responsibilities
Liaise with the Academy Director and Safeguarding/Welfare Officer regarding any welfare,
safeguarding or behavioural concerns involving players or staff.Monitor player and coach conduct during training sessions and matchdays, providing support and feedback where appropriate.
Provide regular reports and updates to the Academy Director & Head of Coaching on player progression, staffing matters and operational issues.
Support and oversee the completion of all administrative tasks within the Youth Development Phase, ensuring deadlines and compliance requirements are met.
Assist with the organisation, preparation and management of Academy equipment, training resources and matchday kit requirements.
Maintain accurate player records and development documentation in accordance with Club and governing body requirements.
Undertake continuous professional development opportunities as identified by the Academy Director.
Promote and uphold the values, standards and reputation of the Football Club at all times.
Carry out any additional duties reasonably requested by the Academy Director in support of the Academy's objectives.
Essential Qualifications
UEFA Pro Licence, UEFA Elite Youth A Licence , UEFA A Licence.
Valid driving licence.
Enhanced Disclosure/Background Check (or ability to obtain).
Essential Experience
Proven experience working within an elite academy environment.
Experience leading and managing coaching staff.
Experience delivering individual player development programmes.
Demonstrable success in developing players within the Youth Development Phase.
Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Strong understanding of elite youth development frameworks and player pathways.
Essential Knowledge & Skills
Comprehensive understanding of long-term player development principles.
Strong leadership and people management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to build positive relationships with players, parents and staff.
Strong organisational and administrative capabilities.
Ability to analyse player performance and implement effective development strategies.
Competent in the use of performance analysis and player management systems.
Personal Attributes
High standards of professionalism and integrity.
Passionate about player and coach development.
Positive role model who reflects the Club's values.
Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
Resilient and adaptable in a high-performance environment.
Collaborative and solutions-focused approach to leadership.
Commitment to continuous learning and self-development.
Application process
To be considered for this position, please submit a current CV and covering letter to:
Allan McManus: allan.mcmanus@stmirren.com
Closing Date: 20th June 2026
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview process, which may include an on-pitch coaching assessment.
Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted. If you do not receive a response following the closing date, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.