Job Description

Job Title:

First Team Kit Manager

Location:

Port Vale Football Club

Hours:

Minimum of 37.5 hours per week (matchdays are compulsory; evening and weekend work required)

Salary:

Dependent on experience

Contract:

Permanent, Full-time

Team:

First Team Back Room Staff

Additional Requirements:

A full, clean UK driving licence is required. The role requires flexibility to travel to away matches and other club commitments.

Job Purpose:

To take overall responsibility for the professional management and delivery of all kit and equipment requirements for the First Team. The role will also oversee support for the Youth Team, Women's Team, Foundation, and Mascot operations as required. The First Team Kit Manager will ensure that all kit and equipment logistics are managed to the highest standards across training, matchdays, and travel.

Please note that this role requires a flexible approach to working hours, including evening, weekend, and matchday commitments, both home and away.

Principal Roles & Responsibilities:

Take full ownership of the day-to-day management and delivery of all first team kit and equipment operations across training sessions, matchdays (home and away), and special events. Lead and manage the Kit & Equipment department, including supervision and delegation to any casual staff and volunteers, ensuring high standards of professionalism and efficiency. Ensure all first team and staff kit, training wear, and equipment is prepared, packed, and distributed ahead of schedule for training and matchdays, including ensuring adequate stock levels throughout the season. Manage kit logistics for all first team fixtures, including transport, set-up, and post-match recovery, ensuring all items are cleaned, repaired, and stored appropriately. Liaise with football operations, coaching staff, medical, and performance departments to ensure all equipment and kit requirements are fully met and tailored to specific needs. Maintain up-to-date inventories of kit and equipment, working with suppliers and club partners to order, track, and manage deliveries and returns. Take responsibility for printing and personalisation of all first team kit in line with league and sponsor guidelines. Ensure matchday kit compliance with league regulations, including colours, numbering, sponsor placements, and emergency contingencies. Lead on planning and execution of kit and equipment logistics for pre-season, mid-season breaks, and international tours. Coordinate and support with laundry operations to ensure prompt turnaround and cleanliness of all teamwear. Support other areas of the club's football operation (e.g. Academy, Foundation, Women's team) as required, in collaboration with Assistant Kit Managers.

Person Specification & Behaviours:

Previous experience working in kit management or a similar role is highly desirable. Familiarity with kit management software and label printing systems is advantageous. Highly organised and detail-oriented, with strong time management and problem-solving skills. Flexible, reliable, and able to work under pressure to tight deadlines, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to lead a team and liaise effectively with players, coaching staff, and external suppliers. Strong sense of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality when handling sensitive team or player matters. This role is physically demanding and will involve daily lifting, carrying, and transporting of kit and equipment. Candidates must be comfortable working on their feet for extended periods and handling manual tasks in varying weather conditions. Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel nationally and occasionally internationally as required.

Values & Expectations:

Uphold and promote the Club's values, culture, and professional standards at all times. Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Adhere to the club's Code of Conduct, respecting confidentiality and acting as a role model for others. Maintain high standards of appearance and behaviour and encourage the same from others within the team.

Safeguarding Statement

Port Vale Football Club is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and adults at risk and require all employees to share this commitment and promote the welfare of these groups. Applicants will be asked about any previous convictions, cautions, reprimands, including those that are considered 'spent' as defined by the Rehabilitation Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amended 2013). Appointment to this role is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS Check (with children's barred list check) and references.

Equality Statement

Port Vale Football Club is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion or belief(s), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age or with regards to pregnancy or maternity.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Schedule:

Weekend availability
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 22/05/2025