Head of Academy Operations & Safeguarding

The Head of Academy Operations and Safeguarding is a multi skilled role that requires a sound understanding and awareness of EFL Academy processes and procedures. The post holder will support the Academies delivery of operational and safeguarding, working closely with key stakeholders, both internally and externally, to drive forward the Academy and clubs aspirations to gain EPPP category two status.

Manage the Academy’s delivery of administrative, operational, logistical and other support services

Act as the point of contact between the Academy and the English Football League/Football Association for administrative and operational matters

Oversee all processes in relation to administrative, registration and regulatory requirements with the English Football League, and FA, and to liaise closely with the Club Secretary to ensure that all governance is compliant

To liaise closely with the Academy Manager, Head of Recruitment, the Club Secretary, and the Head of Coaching in respect to all matters relating to the recruitment, registration and release of Academy players ensuring that the Club/EFL/FA guidelines and protocols are adhered to.

Assist Academy Staff to ensure players and their parents receive an appropriate induction on entry to the Academy programme and communicate with parents on academy matters

Administrative requirements of the EPPP process across the Player Performance Pathway, and to liaise with Academy management to ensure that KPI Performance Targets are adhered to

Communication distribution to Academy players, and their parents/guardians

To safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people and ensure all club staff and volunteers, parents and players/children understand their role in safeguarding children, young people.

Report and refer child protection and/or poor practice complaints in line with policy guidance advised by The Football League and The Football Association.

Deal with any complaints about poor practice in line with the Club’s Safeguarding Complaints Procedure.

To keep records of any incidents relating to the welfare of any child.

Ensure all staff/volunteers working with children (appropriate to their role) have an enhanced DBS / CRC clearance for work in football. Renewed every 3 years in line with FA and FL guidance.

Ensure the club has in place appropriate policies and procedures for identifying, responding to and reporting concerns or disclosures of abuse.

Disseminate to all staff working with children, up-to-date legislative and good practice requirements

Arrange and coordinate all academy fixtures and tours, including dealing with opposition clubs, and arranging catering/transportation/accommodation/kit/administration/equipment/Scouts if required

Ensure match officials are organised for all fixtures across all relevant age groups

Maintain databases and filing system for Academy players, Scholars and Staff

Arrange team meetings, take minutes and action points

In collaboration with the Academy Designated Safeguarding & Player Care Officer:

To develop a understanding of the Academy Players welfare needs to resolve Academy welfare and safeguarding issues in relation to safeguarding children.

To liaise with all parents and authorities in respect of any Safeguarding complaints. Report regularly to the Safeguarding Senior Manager / Board on Safeguarding matters.

• Excellent working relationships with Academy, scholars, parents and other key contacts across the business
• Professionally robust with the drive and enthusiasm to set high standards and drive the Academy forward
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• To able to work reactively as well as proactively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Sound working knowledge of Microsoft Office including
  
  Word, Excel, Powerpoint as well as Keynote
• Inquisitive nature and able to keep on top of evolvingpolicies and processes
• Experience dealing with key stakeholders, Premier League, EFL, LFE
• Motivated, passionate with a ‘can do’ and flexible approach to work and working hours
• Hold a full UK driver’s licence
• EFL experience of safeguarding process and protocols
• Knowledge and working experience of a…