ABOUT THE COMPANY
The Philadelphia Union operates and competes in Major League Soccer, the top professional league in the United States. Youth development is the core of our mission and the heart of our passion. The Philadelphia Union Academy program is free of charge, so Philadelphia’s future players of promise have an opportunity to pursue their passions without the burden of paying to play. Selection into the program is a true accomplishment and the major step in a player’s path to Subaru Park.
The innovative Philadelphia Union Academy program is deeply based in sport science and performance and follows best practices in coaching education. It includes three developmental phases: Junior Academy (U9 - U12), Mid Academy (U13 - U15), Senior Academy (U16 - U18) and targeted scouting as needed as it relates to Philadelphia Union II (NCAA, MLS Next Pro, USL). At all ages, our players are asked to lead by example and embrace the ethos and culture of Philadelphia Union.
The Philadelphia Union Academy was established after studying the models of the most innovative and successful soccer clubs worldwide. The Philadelphia Union is about implementing a holistic developmental platform integrating world-class player training and sport science for the youth soccer players of the Greater Philadelphia region.
The Philadelphia Union Academy is the renowned soccer platform providing an opportunity for the youngest players to develop a passion for the game, or for an elite academy player on the cusp of professional stardom to pursue excellence, all in the same enriching and nurturing environment. Philadelphia Union Academy has one of the most qualified and skilled staff in North America, featuring sport science and athletic development training as important resources. The program is overseen by Director of Academy and Player Development Jon Scheer. The Philadelphia Union Academy is based out of WSFS Bank Sportsplex in Chester, PA, and features an innovative, first-of-its-kind soccer specific independent school partner, YSC Academy.
ABOUT THIS ROLE
Reporting to the Director of Academy and Professional Development, the Head of Academy Operations is responsible for executing the day-to-day operations of the academy, including but not limited to the planning and execution of academy travel, coordination of matchday operations, player and staff registration, communication with internal and external stakeholders, as well as overseeing administrative and technical duties. This role will work closely with and supervises the Coordinator, Academy Operations.
- Lead the planning and execution of all Academy activities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and efficient communication across departments.
- Manage regional and international travel logistics for the Academy, including budgeting, vendor negotiations, and compliance with organizational policies.
- Own the strategic planning and delivery of match day logistics, delegating tasks to staff and ensuring seamless execution.
- Attend home Academy matches as a senior representative, providing leadership presence and resolving operational issues as needed.
- Establish and maintain clear, timely, and accurate communication protocols with staff and players, fostering transparency and trust within the training complex.
- Develop and manage systems for Academy player and staff registration and onboarding, ensuring compliance and a positive experience.
- Serve as a strategic liaison with other departments and key stakeholders on company-wide projects, driving alignment and resource allocation.
- Serve as the senior point of contact for league representatives, managing relationships and ensuring adherence to league requirements.
- Build and maintain strong internal and external partnerships, representing the Philadelphia Union with professionalism and integrity.
- Identify opportunities to enhance Academy operations and implement best practices to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
- Keep confidential any information gained regarding the Club and its personnel.
- Take on additional strategic duties that support the Academy’s growth and success.
- Other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in Sports Management, Business Administration, or related discipline strongly preferred.
- Strong understanding of the soccer industry and player development landscape; prior experience in sports management or related fields preferred.
- Proven track record of managing teams, mentoring staff, and fostering a high-performance culture.
- Experience managing budgets, negotiating vendor contracts, and allocating resources effectively.
- Highly organized, proactive and process-driven individual, with ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to influence and engage stakeholders through clear, persuasive written and verbal communication, ensuring alignment across departments.
- Demonstrated ability to design and optimize processes, prioritize competing demands, and drive operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.
- Bilingual is a plus.
- Willingness to work beyond normal business hours, including nights, weekends and holidays as required.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
This position requires the following clearances:
- PA Child Abuse History clearance
- PA State Police Criminal Records Check
- An FBI Criminal Background Check
- SafeSport Certification
OUR PERKS
- Comprehensive benefits package including three medical options, vision and dental coverage, including flexible spending & health savings accounts.
- Pre-tax and Roth 401k (up to 4% is matched, after elimination period).
- Company-paid life insurance and disability.
- Access to licensed therapists via the virtual mental health platform, Tava Health, available to all employees and their dependents.
- Wellness reimbursements through Independence Blue Cross.
- 50% merchandise discount.
- Other league and partner discounts.
- Complimentary or discounted tickets.
- 24/7 state-of-the-art Fitness Center and locker rooms with employee Sportsplex access.
- On-site Café with grab-and-go options, salad bar, and grill!
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class. Not sure you meet every requirement? Championship teams are built on diverse strengths. If you’re passionate about sports and excited about this role, we want to hear from you!
