Lead Academy Performance Scientist

Sheffield United FC

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Sheffield United Training Academy 💼 Contract: Permanent

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Lead Academy Performance Scientist | Sheffield United FC (Jobs in Data Science TheASPA)

🌐 Sheffield United FC 📍Sheffield United Training Academy 💼 Contract: Permanent | FT ⏱️ Hours: 40 hours/week 💰 Salary: DOE 👤 Reports to: Academy Head of Elite Performance ⏰ Closing: Thursday 22 October 2026 🔖 Job reference: AC1026-PLAPS

Sheffield United FC are recruiting a Lead Academy Performance Scientist to deliver high-quality applied performance science support across their Academy, with a particular focus on the Professional Development Phase.

The role combines performance data analytics, athlete monitoring, data visualisation and applied physical development, supporting evidence-based decision-making, player availability and long-term athletic development.

Working within the Academy Elite Performance Team, the successful candidate will help translate complex performance information into practical insights for coaches, medical staff and physical performance practitioners.

The Role

The Lead Academy Performance Scientist will oversee the collection, management, analysis and interpretation of key physical performance data across the Academy.

A central responsibility will be managing athlete monitoring systems, developing performance dashboards and ensuring data informs decisions around training design, player management, rehabilitation and athletic development.

Alongside these analytical responsibilities, the role includes supporting gym and pitch-based physical development, leading the Academy Data Analyst and Data Analyst Volunteers and contributing to the ongoing development of performance science practice.

Key Responsibilities

Performance Data & Athlete Monitoring

Lead the collection, management and interpretation of Academy performance data.
Manage athlete monitoring systems using Catapult GPS and VALD technologies.
Ensure accurate data capture, quality assurance, reporting and appropriate data governance.
Develop and maintain performance dashboards, reports and visualisations.
Interpret complex datasets and communicate meaningful findings to coaches and multidisciplinary staff.
Identify performance trends that inform player development, performance and availability.

Applied Performance Science

Work collaboratively with coaching, medical and physical performance staff.
Provide evidence-informed recommendations supporting training design, player management and rehabilitation progression.
Contribute to long-term athletic development planning.
Lead or support physical testing and the delivery of gym and pitch-based athletic development sessions.
Evaluate existing performance science practices and introduce evidence-based improvements.

Leadership & Professional Development

Manage the Academy Data Analyst and Data Analyst Volunteers.
Ensure consistent and high-quality analytical support across the Academy.
Contribute to the ongoing development of performance science processes and technologies.
Lead and participate in internal CPD activities.
Maintain professional development through external learning opportunities.
Support effective multidisciplinary collaboration within the Academy Elite Performance Team.

Essential Skills & Experience

Candidates must demonstrate:

A BSc in Sport & Exercise Science, Strength & Conditioning or a related discipline.
Experience delivering sports science support within professional or elite sport.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Power BI.
Previous experience using GPS technology and interpreting associated performance data.
Strong understanding of statistical analysis methods.
Ability to interpret complex performance datasets and communicate practical recommendations.
Experience delivering gym and/or pitch-based athletic development.
Strong organisational and communication skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with players across different age groups and coaches across Academy phases.

Essential Certifications & Checks

FA Safeguarding Children certificate.
FA First Aid — Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football.
Enhanced DBS check following acceptance of an offer.

Desirable Skills & Experience

Postgraduate qualification in Data Analytics, Data Management or a related discipline.
Experience using Python, R or similar programming languages for data analysis and visualisation.
Previous line management or performance management responsibilities.
Experience working within a professional football Academy.

Technical Skills & Technologies

Catapult GPSVALDPower BIExcelPython — DesirableR — Desirable

The position places particular emphasis on combining athlete monitoring technologies, statistical analysis and data visualisation to inform applied performance decisions.

Why This Role?

This is an opportunity for practitioners who want to work at the intersection of sports science, performance analytics and player development.

The role extends beyond traditional physical monitoring, incorporating responsibility for data infrastructure, analytical reporting and the management of Academy data personnel.

The successful candidate will contribute across the performance workflow:

Data Collection → Athlete Monitoring → Statistical Analysis → Data Visualisation → Applied Performance Decisions

For candidates with experience in GPS analytics, Power BI and applied sports science, the position offers scope to influence how physical performance data is translated into coaching and player development practice.

Working Requirements

The role involves working at Sheffield United's Training Academy and travelling to opposition clubs as required.

Applicants must demonstrate eligibility to work in the UK and comply with the club's safeguarding, equality and diversity policies.

Sheffield United FC are committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk and promoting an inclusive working environment.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete Sheffield United FC's official application form 👇

>> APPLY HERE <<

Completed application forms must be submitted via email to [email protected] stating the vacancy title in the subject or posted to HR, Sheffield United Football Club, Bramall Lane, Sheffield, S2 4SU.

Alternatively, applications can be posted to:

HR Department Sheffield United Football Club Bramall Lane Sheffield S2 4SU

For enquiries or to request a paper application form, contact 0114 253 7200.

Closing date: Thursday 22 October 2026