The Academy Recruitment and Talent Identification Manager is responsible for leading and managing the club’s youth recruitment strategy in alignment with Rochdale AFC’s development philosophy and EFL Youth Development Rules. The primary objective of this role is to identify, recruit, and retain high-potential young players capable of progressing through the club’s pathway toward the first team.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will oversee the talent identification strategy across all Academy age groups while ensuring full compliance with EFL and FA regulations. They will manage and support the scouting network, cultivate strong relationships with grassroots clubs and local schools, and coordinate player trials and assessments. Additionally, the manager will maintain comprehensive scouting databases, collaborate closely with coaching staff to align recruitment with the club’s playing philosophy, and support player transition and retention throughout their time in the Academy.
About the Club
Established in 1907, Rochdale Association Football Club is a historic professional club set to compete in EFL League Two for the 2026/27 season, alongside commitments in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Vertu Trophy. Following the acquisition of a controlling stake by the Ogden Family in May 2024, the club is actively driving growth across its sporting, commercial, and community initiatives.
Head of Academy Recruitment
LOCATION
Rochdale
EXPIRY DATE
10th, July 2026
CONTRACT TYPE
Full-Time
The Role
The Academy Recruitment and Talent Identification Manager is responsible for leading and managing the club’s youth recruitment strategy in alignment with Rochdale AFC’s development philosophy and EFL Youth Development Rules. The primary objective of this role is to identify, recruit, and retain high-potential young players capable of progressing through the club’s pathway toward the first team.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will oversee the talent identification strategy across all Academy age groups while ensuring full compliance with EFL and FA regulations. They will manage and support the scouting network, cultivate strong relationships with grassroots clubs and local schools, and coordinate player trials and assessments. Additionally, the manager will maintain comprehensive scouting databases, collaborate closely with coaching staff to align recruitment with the club’s playing philosophy, and support player transition and retention throughout their time in the Academy.
About the Club
Established in 1907, Rochdale Association Football Club is a historic professional club set to compete in EFL League Two for the 2026/27 season, alongside commitments in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Vertu Trophy. Following the acquisition of a controlling stake by the Ogden Family in May 2024, the club is actively driving growth across its sporting, commercial, and community initiatives.
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