Job Description

Join the Legacy and Future of West Ham United

Founded in 1895, West Ham United is a club that blends rich tradition with a forward-thinking approach, creating an exciting, ever-evolving football culture. Based in the heart of London, we proudly call the London Stadium home -- a state-of-the-art venue with a capacity of 62,500, making it one of the largest in the country. We are also dedicated to providing the most affordable Premier League tickets in London, championing Accessible Family Football for all.



Our women's team, achieving professional status in 2018, has soared to new heights in the Women's Super League and reached the prestigious FA Cup final. Meanwhile, our cutting-edge Academy, which opened in 2019, is nurturing future stars, producing first-team players like Declan Rice and Ben Johnson.



With ongoing improvements to the stadium, including the iconic Billy Bonds Stand, West Ham is constantly evolving, making sure our fans experience the best in matchday atmosphere and comfort. We are also incredibly proud to hold the Disability Confident Leader status, reflecting our dedication to inclusivity and accessibility.



As we continue to grow, so does our workforce. With a dedicated team of 300 core staff and 500 event and Foundation employees, West Ham United offers a truly unique working environment. We're especially proud to have been awarded the Premier League's Advanced Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Standard in 2023 -- our second consecutive recognition -- underlining our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and dynamic workplace.



Join us and become part of a club that stands at the crossroads of history, ambition, and innovation. West Ham United is where passion, progress, and inclusivity come together to create something special.

Why Join Us?

Diversity & Inclusion: We believe a diverse team drives creativity and strengthens performance. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities to apply.

Health & Wellbeing:

We are committed to protecting the physical and mental health of our staff, ensuring a balanced and supportive work environment.

Career Growth:

As part of a premier football club, you will have opportunities to grow and innovate in an exciting and fast-paced environment.

If you're ready to bring your passion for Sport Science and football to one of the world's most iconic clubs, apply now!

Position:

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Job Title: Head of Sports Science

Department: Women's Team

Location: Chadwell Heath Training Ground

Contract Type: Full Time

Reporting To: General Manager and Director of Performance- Women's Team

West Ham United is proud to offer a unique opportunity for an experienced and driven Strength & Conditioning professional to join our Women's First Team as Head of Sports Science.



This is a pivotal role within our elite multidisciplinary team (MDT), responsible for leading the physical performance programme across the Women's First Team. You'll be at the forefront of driving player development and team performance, both on and off the pitch, while championing cutting-edge practice in female athlete preparation.

About the Role

As Head of Sports Science, you will:


Lead the planning, delivery and analysis of physical performance strategies aligned with club-wide sports science methodology.


Oversee physical profiling, monitoring, and conditioning of First Team players - both collectively and individually.


Collaborate closely with coaching staff to integrate physical conditioning within football training.


Deliver matchday support and contribute to the design and implementation of return-to-play programmes.


Take initiative in the organisation of performance logistics and operations to ensure smooth and professional day-to-day functioning.


Serve as an ambassador for the club's Physical Development strategy and actively contribute to its continuous evolution.


Support the development of Academy players and staff to ensure successful transitions to the First Team environment.


Liaise with external partners, including overseeing a PhD study on youth training demands in collaboration with Loughborough University.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead all elements of physical profiling, testing and analysis.


Implement and manage monitoring systems including workload, wellness and neuromuscular status.


Develop and deliver S&C programming tailored to technical, tactical and physiological outcomes.


Ensure best practice in injury prevention and performance recovery strategies.


Drive innovation by researching and applying current methodologies in women's sport.


Foster strong, effective relationships with players, coaches, and the wider MDT.


Contribute strategically to the club's long-term performance framework.

Why West Ham United?

At West Ham United, we are committed to excellence on and off the pitch. Joining our Women's programme means becoming part of a forward-thinking, supportive, and ambitious environment where every member of staff is valued and empowered to drive performance.



We are an equal opportunities employer and proud Disability Confident Leader. We actively encourage applications from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.

Requirements:

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Who We Are Looking For:

We're seeking an innovative, collaborative, and impact-driven professional who demonstrates:

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

BSc in Sport Science, Strength & Conditioning, or related field


UKSCA Accreditation (or working towards)


Proven experience in an elite sports environment


Demonstrable experience of physical profiling and S&C programming


Strong knowledge of female athlete development and periodisation


Ability to influence and lead within a performance environment

Desirable:

MSc in Sport Science or related discipline


BASES Accreditation


FA Emergency First Aid (EFAiF Level 2)


Understanding of growth & maturation in youth development


UKAD Clean Sport Advisor Certification

Skills & Attributes

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills


Analytical thinking with the ability to apply data to practice


Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities


Passion for innovation and continued professional development


A team-first mentality and commitment to club values

Other information:

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Benefits on offer

(may vary based on contract type and location)



25 days annual leave plus your birthday off Pension and life insurance Healthcare cash scheme Travel season ticket loan Cycle to work scheme Priority access to apply for match tickets Discounted season tickets Staff discounts in the club store, cafe and our official partners products and services Discounted gym membership and onsite fitness room facilities Family friendly leave policies Company Social events

Safeguarding:

The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk of harm across all stakeholders. Everyone, including third parties who work with the Club or the West Ham Foundation, is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Successful candidates must undergo essential background checks before starting their employment, which may include screening of social media. The type of DBS check required will depend on the responsibilities of the position and may be basic, standard, or enhanced.



The successful candidate agrees to proactively identify and respond appropriately to any concerns, and follow the Club's Safeguarding reporting procedures to report allegations of abuse, poor practice, or anything that may impact the welfare of a child, young person, or adult at risk without delay, within 24 hours, or as otherwise directed by the Club's or the West Ham Foundation Safeguarding Team.

EDI Statement:

The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, aligning with the organisation's business and tactical approach to eliminating barriers and addressing inequity. You agree to actively contribute to creating a discrimination-free and inclusive environment, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and benefits, while fostering a culture of dignity and respect that enables everyone to perform and achieve their potential.



Candidates must demonstrate their capability and willingness to uphold best practices and procedures, promoting lasting positive change while eliminating biases and barriers to attracting, achieving, and supporting talent from all communities, regardless of background, circumstances, or protected characteristics.

How to Apply

To apply, please reply to the link with your full CV and a supporting statement outlining your motivation for applying and how you feel you meet the profile of the candidate we are looking for.



The deadline for applications is

5pm Friday 11th July 2025.

Please note that the vacancy may close early if there is a high volume of applicants.

Queries

Thank you for your interest. If you have any queries, or require support with your application, please contact careers@westhamunited.co.uk