Job Description
Job Title:Head of Sports Science
Department:Sports Science
Reporting:Head of First Team Performance
Location:Training Ground – Jersey Road
Salary:Competitive
Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first, we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable, we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development, inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.
Being progressive, humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.
We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas, solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.
We play in a brand-new stadium, 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.
We will never forget where we have come from, but we are excited about the future that lies ahead.
Come join us.
Inclusion Statement
Brentford FC is an organisation which values and is passionate about diversity and inclusivity. We welcome and encourage applications from qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups – such as those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, women, those from the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities. Should you require any workplace accommodations (also known as ‘reasonable adjustments’), you will have the opportunity to let us know at the appropriate points in the hiring process.
Safeguarding Statement
Brentford FC is committed to equality, the safeguarding and welfare of all children and adults at risk. This responsibility is shared by all staff and volunteers at the club, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Staff will be required to undertake regular safeguarding training to enable and reinforce a proactive approach to safeguarding. This role requires the post holder to apply all relevant policies and uphold the club’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people to ensure a safe environment for all. This includes the timely reporting of any safeguarding concern to the safeguarding team. We remind those barred from regulated activity that it is an offence to apply for such positions.
Please note that where appropriate for the role, you may be required to complete additional background checks such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and this will include any time living or working outside of the UK in the last 10 years. You can find out more about this at https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record
Please also note that a CV application will not be sufficient. Applications will not be considered where the application form has not been completed in full.
If the role you are applying for involves regulated activity and you have been shortlisted for a first stage interview, you will be asked to fill out a Declaration of Offences Form.
The Role of Head of Sports Science
Brentford FC has an exciting opportunity for Head of Sports Science.
As part of the Performance Executive Group (PEG), the Head of Sports Science will play a pivotal part in delivering world-class performance standards to Brentford FC. They will lead on the Sports Science Strategy, in line with the Club’s performance objectives, and report into the Head of First Team Performance.
Main Accountabilities
- Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive sports science strategy aligned with the Club’s performance objectives, integrating cutting-edge methodologies practically, to enhance player performance and minimise injury risk.
- Management of Sports Science Team: Provide leadership and direction to the sports science team, including strength and conditioning coaches, sports scientists, data scientists, nutritionists and performance consultants, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement. This should include setting key performance objectives for all Sports Science staff that report into the Head of Sports Science and managing appraisals in line with the club policy at that time. Line-manage Head of Academy Sports Science and strategically add value to the Academy's Sports Science strategies.
- Planning, Monitoring and Data Collection: Lead on the collection and analysis of player data, utilising advanced sports science technologies and methodologies to monitor training loads, fatigue levels, and physical performance metrics. As part of the PEG, provide all the key metrics and information to feed into the optimal first team training schedule that the Head of First Team Performance will lead on.
- Individualised Training Programmes: Lead the performance staff to design and implement individualized strength and conditioning training programmes tailored to the specific needs and goals of each player, optimising physical preparation for training and match performance. Design and oversee clear metrics to monitor and evaluate those programmes in collaboration with PEG.
- Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: Work collaboratively with PEG and the medical team to develop and implement injury prevention strategies and rehabilitation protocols, ensuring the timely and effective return of injured players to full fitness.
- Nutrition and Recovery Strategies: Provide guidance and support to key performance staff regarding nutrition, hydration, and recovery strategies, optimising recovery between training sessions and matches to maximise performance and minimise the risk of injury.
- Sports Science Research and Innovation: Stay abreast of the latest developments in sports science research and technology, integrating innovative methodologies and practices into the club's sports science programme to maintain a competitive edge. In tandem with the Performance Director, facilitate any performance-based research projects, utilising the Brentford research centre to underpin practice and constantly seek growth and improvement.
- Education and Professional Development: Facilitate ongoing education and professional development opportunities for sports science staff and players, promoting a culture of continuous learning and growth.
- International Players: Work collaboratively with PEG, other Club staff and National Federations where appropriate to co-manage international players in the first team squad.
- To work with the Safeguarding Team to promote safe working practice within your department and those you manage.
- To ensure that any concerns you observe, or are raised with you in your role, are shared with the Safeguarding Team through appropriate channels.
- Ensure any contact and interaction with players complies with the Club’s Safeguarding Policy and that any concerns are shared with the Safeguarding Team through appropriate channels.
General Club Accountabilities
- To ensure compliance with all relevant Club policies, including health and safety policies and with specific reference to the data regulations.
- To ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, ethical, and social requirements.
- To ensure compliance with the Club’s Safeguarding Policy and processes.
- To ensure compliance with the Club’s Code of Conduct.
- To actively embed equity, diversity and inclusion into the operations and strategy of your team, in line with our EDI strategy
- To build and maintain good working relationships both internally and externally, maintaining a professional image at all times when representing Brentford FC
- To keep confidential any information gained regarding the Club and its personnel.
- To maintain a flexible approach to work at all times.
Key Internal Relationships
- Director of Football
- Performance Director
- Academy Director
- Head Coach
- Head of Medical Services
- Head of First Team Performance
- Sports Science
- Strength & Conditioning
Person Specification - Essential Personal Characteristics
- Able to practice in the U.K. from a credential's perspective
- BSc/BA in Sports Science (or related discipline)
- MSc/MPhil/MRes in Sports Science (or related discipline)
- BASES Accreditation
- Strength & Conditioning Accreditation (e.g. UKSCA, NSCA)
- Full UK driving licence
- A minimum of >8 years post qualification experience in sports science, in an elite, professional sports environment
- Significant experience working as part of a competitive team.
- Extensive experience working as part of an interdisciplinary sports science, performance, and medicine team.