THE PURPOSE:

The PDP Operations Lead plays a critical role in supporting the smooth and professional delivery of all operational aspects of the Professional Development Phase (U17–U21) at Manchester United. This includes managing logistics, travel, schedules, and daily operations for players and staff in alignment with the club’s elite standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Daily Operations & Scheduling

• Coordinate all daily activities and schedules for PDP squads, including training, matches, recovery, education, and analysis.
• Ensure seamless communication between coaching staff, sports science, medical, and player support teams to maintain aligned planning.
• Maintain and distribute accurate weekly plans, timetables, and squad movement documents.
• Utilise the Academy scheduling app to communicate with relevant groups.

Fixture & Travel Logistics

• Attend PDP matches, both home, and when deemed appropriate, away matches.
• Organise travel, accommodation, catering (matches and training), training camps, and international tours.
• Complete relevant risk assessment documentation for venues and facilities used.
• Liaise with domestic and international clubs, leagues, and competition organisers on fixture logistics.
• Manage transport bookings and oversee team movements to ensure timely arrival and return.

Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate records on player availability, match minutes, and attendance.
• Support the organisation of training camps, friendlies, and events in collaboration with the Head of Player Development and Head of Academy Football Operations.
• Working with Club Secretarial, manage the international call up process of PDP players.
• Assist in compliance with EPPP and Premier League reporting requirements.
• Maintain PDP whereabouts (medical) reporting.
• Support PDP players with individual transport requirements.
• Manage the distribution of first team match tickets for PDP players.
• Support the department in the delivery of Academy activities.

Safeguarding & Welfare

• Ensure all PDP operations uphold Manchester United’s high standards for safeguarding, welfare, and player development.
• Act as a key contact for player welfare concerns and escalate where appropriate to the Player Support or Safeguarding teams.

Communication & Coordination

• Act as a liaison between departments (first team, education, player care, etc.) to support the progression of PDP players.
• Maintain close working relationships with parents, guardians, and external stakeholders when needed.

The Person

• Experience in football operations, logistics, or team management, preferably in an academy or elite sporting environment.
• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities, with great attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to liaise confidently with players, staff, and external parties.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, and digital planning tools
• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and commitment to player welfare.

Desirable

• Experience working within an EPPP Category 1 academy or professional football environment.
• Familiarity with Premier League operational frameworks and audit processes.
• Clean UK driving licence and willingness to travel for fixtures and events.
• Understanding of performance development pathways and long-term athlete development.