Player Care Manager – First Team and Emerging Talent

Club vision: to play football at the highest level. Bristol City is a widely respected institution within English football, defined by its stability, rich heritage, and a track record of elite player development. Looking ahead, we aren’t simply aiming for a place in the top flight; we are committed to being “Premier League Ready” in every sense.

Ashton Gate is our home – a world-class venue that caters for all of Bristol by also hosting the Bristol Bears, Bristol City Women, concerts, international sporting and other events.

When we achieve our goal of playing in the Premier League for the first time, it will be transformative not just for the club, but for the city of Bristol itself.

Job mission: to establish an Elite Player Care provision by providing support to the First Team, PDP and emerging talent players. Lead on managing daily welfare needs whilst promptly handling issues and emergencies as and when required.

REPORTS TO:

First Team Operations Manager

SALARY: £35,000 per annum

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• To support the design, development and implementation of an integrated Club approach to Player Care in working with the relevant staff in the Player pipeline.
• Resolve issues promptly while implementing proactive measures to prevent them from recurring.
• Respond to out-of-hours issues and emergencies on an ad hoc basis.
• Lead on providing each new First Team player with a bespoke welcome that allows a seamless transition into life at Bristol City FC. This should include being present at new player signings, providing a training ground tour, key staff introductions and ensuring all practicalities are in place during the initial arrival period.
• Building relationships with players and families and coordinating appropriate support throughout the player’s journey.
• Support First Team, PDP & emerging talent players by providing comprehensive lifestyle assistance. This may include, but is not limited to, house rentals, passports, NI number, language lessons and payment of bills.
• Establish credible relationships with external agencies and service providers to manage all housing/vehicle arrangements and being knowledgeable on these requirements.
• Attend all home and some away First Team matches to provide in person support where required.
• Support the First Team Operations manager in any operational needs for players on matchdays, including presence in the player lounge and establishing relationships with player families and guests.
• Facilitating match day logistics for players’ guests, including hospitality where appropriate.
• Liaise with the Loans Manager and Loan Clubs, for both in going and outgoing loans, to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of the players. This should also encompass visits to each player throughout the season.
• Work with the Media Department to support player appearances at club & foundation events and facilitate merchandise signings as required.
• Ensuring compliance with club, statutory, and football governing body requirements, and maintaining accurate records.
• A strong understanding of safeguarding and welfare practices, as well as the ability to work independently and with a team.

What you’ll bring:

• At least 2 years’ experience providing tailored operational or individual support within elite sport, a high-performance environment or a similar industry.
• Proven ability to take ownership of complex operational activity, coordinating internal and external stakeholders, domestic and international travel, matchday requirements and associated logistics.
• Excellent organisation and administrative skills, with strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records, anticipate requirements, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Clear and effective…