To lead the successful launch and ongoing operations of the new Academy branch in Saudi Arabia, while continuing to design, deliver, and manage high-quality, age-appropriate football training sessions for players aged 4–18 in line with the academy’s philosophy.

This role combines technical coaching expertise with strategic, operational, and marketing leadership, ensuring the academy’s smooth establishment, compliance with local regulations, and sustainable player recruitment and growth.

Key Responsibilities

Academy Launch & Operations (Saudi Arabia)

• Develop and implement a comprehensive launch plan covering site readiness, logistics, staffing, marketing, and timelines.

• Coordinate with local authorities and sports bodies to secure necessary licenses, permits, and approvals for operations.

• Identify, evaluate, and prepare training venues and facilities in collaboration with the Regional HQ.

• Lead on local partnerships and collaborations with schools, municipalities, and private organizations to promote the academy.

• Oversee operational logistics including equipment procurement, setup, and venue branding.

• Establish local administrative and operational systems aligned with Regional Sports’ standards and policies.

• Work closely with the Technical Director to ensure the Saudi branch replicates the academy’s philosophy, curriculum, and culture.

Recruitment & Growth

• Develop and execute a player recruitment strategy aligned with company growth targets and seasonal objectives.

• Actively promote the academy through school visits, open trials, partnerships, and community engagement events.

• Build and maintain relationships with parents, schools, and local sports influencers to drive awareness and player registrations.

• Monitor monthly and seasonal registration performance and ensure targets are achieved across all age groups.

• Collaborate with the marketing team to implement campaigns, digital ads, and referral programs that increase visibility and enrollment.

• Prepare regular growth and performance reports highlighting trends, challenges, and recommendations to management.

• Contribute to long-term player retention by ensuring a positive customer experience and consistent service quality.

Player Development

• Plan and execute engaging, structured training sessions aligned with the Regional Sports curriculum.

• Coach players in technical, tactical, physical, and psychosocial development (4-corner model).

• Evaluate player progress through regular assessments and feedback reports.

• Foster a growth mindset and promote positive player behavior both on and off the pitch.

Session & Team Management

• Arrive 1 hour before sessions to prepare the pitch and equipment.

• Manage and clean up all training gear and ensure proper use by players.

• Ensure attendance is recorded, kits are worn correctly, and sessions start/finish on time.

• Lead or assist in weekend league and friendly matches.

Planning & Reporting

• Submit weekly session plans to the Technical Director for review.

• Participate in weekly coaching and academy planning meetings.

• Provide monthly development reports and player reviews as requested.

• Agree to and be evaluated against performance KPIs set by the Technical Director each season.

• For the Saudi branch, prepare launch progress updates, operational reports, and registration performance summaries to Regional HQ.

Communication

• Maintain open, respectful, and professional communication with players, parents, and staff.

• Inform parents of session changes, fixtures, or performance updates via approved channels (email, WhatsApp, etc.).

• Attend parent briefings, trials, and community events as needed.

• Represent the Saudi academy branch in local and regional meetings, events, and media engagements.

Mentorship & Coach Development

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior coaches within your age group.

• Share feedback, run demo sessions, and support staff development workshops.

• Support trial events, school programs, and academy outreach activities.

• Assist in recruiting and onboarding new coaches and support staff for the Saudi branch.

Media & Brand Responsibility

• Capture game-day images or highlights for social media.

• Support the marketing team with local content, community stories, and press coverage to raise brand awareness.

• Represent the academy brand professionally on and off the pitch.

Qualifications & Certifications

Required:

• FA Level 2 / UEFA C License or equivalent

• First Aid in Football Certificate

• Safeguarding Children Certificate

• Minimum 2 years of experience coaching youth players (preferably 7v7–11v11)

Desirable:

• FA Youth Modules or equivalent

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Coaching or related field

• Familiarity with UAE football ecosystem

Key Attributes

• Passionate about youth development and grassroots sport

• Reliable, disciplined, and committed to team standards

• Excellent communicator with emotional intelligence

• Punctual, organized, and proactive in session planning

• Flexible to work evenings and weekends

• Upholds academy values and serves as a role model to players

• Capable of operating independently in a new market while reporting to HQ

• Results-oriented, with a clear focus on growth, enrollment, and retention