Local Talent Lead at Manchester United

Responsibilities:

Talent Identification & Recruitment

• Identify and assess players (U9–U14) aligned with club profiling and recruitment criteria.
• Provide clear recommendations supported by detailed written and video scouting reports.
• Compile and maintain Trial Lists, Monitor Lists, and Market Depth Lists.
• Support the progression of identified players into Academy trials.
• When appropriate, meet and present the Academy to prospective players and parents.

Scouting Network Leadership

• Lead, manage, and develop a team of local scouts.
• Ensure scouts are organised, aligned, and delivering consistent, high-quality reporting.
• Support ongoing education and development of the scouting network.
• Maintain strong communication with the Head of Academy Recruitment and Local Recruitment Manager

Local Talent Centre Management

• Oversee the planning and delivery of the Local Talent Centre.
• Coordinate recruitment events, training sessions, and games linked to the centre.
• Ensure strong alignment between scouting activity and centre operations.
• Manage player administration including invites, exits, feedback, and medical processes.

Knowledge, Reporting & Planning

• Maintain in-depth knowledge of the local talent landscape.
• Deliver recruitment insights including target lists, squad reviews, succession planning, and presentations.
• Work closely with Academy coaches (U9–U16) to align recruitment with age-group needs and performance levels.

Networking

• Build and maintain relationships with grassroots clubs, leagues, coaches, and development networks.
• Promote a positive and professional image of the club within the local football landscape.

The Person:
Professional Experience

• Proven track record in academy football and working within foundation phase age groups whether coaching or recruitment
• Strong network within grassroots football (Local Leagues, schools, community clubs, regional FAs, development centres).
• Prior experience of leading or coordinating scouting teams at academy or pre-academy level.
• Background in talent ID and player development pathways (knowledge of characteristics at Pre Academy, Foundation, Youth Development.
• Demonstrable experience of collaborating with coaches, parents, and education staff to support holistic player development. 

Knowledge & Understanding

• Deep knowledge of the local football landscape (Greater Manchester and surrounding regions).
• Familiarity with Premier League Academy rules, EPPP (Elite Player Performance Plan) standards, and safeguarding requirements.
• Strong grasp of youth player profiles, including technical, tactical, physical, and psycho-social attributes.
• Understanding of diversity, inclusion, and equality challenges in football recruitment.

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent relationship management with local clubs, schools, and community groups.
• Ability to spot potential early (not just current performance).
• Strong leadership and ability to mentor scouts, ensuring alignment with academy philosophy.
• Excellent communication skills (report writing, presenting, engaging with parents).
• High levels of discretion, integrity, and professionalism & representing Manchester United values at all times.

Qualifications (Desirable but not always essential)

• FA Talent ID qualifications (Level 2/3)
• Safeguarding certification.
• Full UK driving licence.