Football is big business with a global impact and audience. For many, working in an industry they are passionate about is a dream come true. Because of this, securing a role at a football club or satellite organisation is competitive, with many applications for each role. Below, we will cover how you can increase your chances of success.
Getting Your Foot in the Door at Professional Football Clubs
Unfortunately, there is no secret formula to help with this first step. Knowing your strengths and skills and how they could be helpful to an organisation is a good start.
If you are at the beginning of your working life, taking a relevant degree, apprentice or applying for opening roles could be an option. If you are older and already have career experience, you can search for roles that are looking for the transferable skills you already have.
At the end of the day, you need to start networking, applying for jobs and getting feedback.
Gain Relevant Experience and Network
Getting involved in grassroots football can provide experience and networking opportunities.
Nearly all premier league clubs have a charitable arm, and most smaller clubs rely on part-time voluntary roles that are excellent ways to gain experience and enhance your CV.
A great place to get information about the types of roles available and how to get involved in the Football England website’s volunteer section. The FA also have a lot of good information on how to get involved.
Roles Available at Professional Clubs
The jobs and careers available at professional football clubs are far wider than just those involved in successfully managing the players to win titles. Football is a global industry requiring professionals in many fields to reach and engage fans and sponsors. In addition, each club will have a community charity arm involved in grassroots initiatives and giving back to the local community.
Football Industry Jobs
- Finance and Accounting
- Legal
- PR
- Sales and marketing & sponsorship
- Digital development
- Event management
- Player welfare
- Partnership management
- Brand management
- Community partnerships
- Press office
- Coaching
- Security & Stewarding
- Photography and video
Relevant Qualifications for Football Industry Jobs
Starting with your end goal in mind, the best place to get a feel for which qualification or certificate would be the most useful to you is to spend some time looking at paid and voluntary roles.
FA Certificates
The FA run several short courses designed around coaching and playing football and is an excellent place to start
Short Courses
Many UK universities and higher education providers offer short courses in sports management, football business, and sports science.
Additionally, gaining a certificate to demonstrate the skills required for the roles you are interested in can boost your application’s chance of success.
- The Inclusive Leadership in Football Award
- The Certificate in Elite Player Care and Wellbeing
- Professional Media Training
- Essentials of Soccer Business & Leadership
Football Apprenticeships
Some premier league clubs have apprenticeship positions, which are an incredible way to start a career in sports. These opportunities are sought after, and many applications are received when they become available. Below are some helpful links to begin your search and research opportunities.
The Apprenticeship Guide- Sports
The Institute for Apprenticeships- Sport
Master’s Degrees
If you already have an undergraduate degree or experience in football at the grassroots or professional level, a postgraduate course can help boost your career progression or help you secure your next role.
- MSc Football Business
- MSc Football Coaching
- MSc Football Coaching & Analysis
- MSc Football Communications & Digital Marketing
- MSc International Sport Management
- MSc Player Care in Football
- MSc Sports Coaching
- MSc Sports Marketing & Media
