Academy Scout (Local)

Overview

Chelsea Football Club is seeking a knowledgeable and well-connected Academy Scout to join their Academy Recruitment team under a fixed-term contract until June 2028. This part-time role requires approximately 20 hours per week, primarily remote with required travel, focusing on identifying and evaluating emerging football talent from U13 upwards to contribute to one of the globe's premier football academies.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend live football matches and analyze video footage to identify potential academy players.
• Generate comprehensive, objective player evaluation reports conforming to club standards and timelines.
• Offer data-driven player recommendations with clear observations and in-depth analysis.
• Compile and manage video clips of players to support recruitment decisions.
• Assist in creating player shortlists and presentations for senior recruitment personnel.
• Collect background data and intelligence on important players to give contextual insights.
• Keep player information updated accurately in internal recruitment databases.
• Scout at various tournaments, festivals, and recruitment events, including occasional international trips.
• Engage in recruitment meetings, performance evaluations, and professional growth activities.
• Support other Academy Recruitment projects and initiatives as required.

Candidate Profile

• Possession of FA Level 2 Talent ID Qualification or UEFA B Coaching Licence.
• Valid passport and full driving licence mandatory.
• A minimum of one-year scouting experience within a professional football environment.
• In-depth understanding of academy football, talent identification, and player development pathways.
• Extensive familiarity with the local football scene and well-established regional football networks.
• Proven expertise in creating precise, insightful scouting reports.
• Confidence in delivering observations and player recommendations to senior staff.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• High proficiency with Microsoft Office and readiness to learn specialized scouting systems.
• Experience with video analysis or clipping tools is advantageous.
• Team-oriented with commitment to professional standards and success of the recruitment function.

Expectations and Values

• Embody Chelsea FC's BLUE behaviours: Brave, Lead, Unity, Edge.
• Adhere to club policies including Health & Safety, Financial Authorization, Confidentiality, and GDPR.
• Act as an ambassador for diversity, equality, and inclusion, and adhere strictly to associated policies.
• Create a safe environment for young people and vulnerable adults and report safeguarding concerns appropriately.
• Report any misconduct or suspected breaches promptly to HR.

Additional Information

Chelsea FC pledges strong commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, encouraging all applicants to bring their unique perspectives and guaranteeing fair consideration of all candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy. Reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process are available upon request.

Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check and potentially other child protection screenings as relevant to the role. The job description is subject to change according to the club’s evolving needs.