%F0%9F%93%88 Head Of Data And Research at Southampton Fc
Job Description
Southampton FC are seeking a Head of Data and Research to lead the club’s data strategy and research operations, with a primary focus on First Team player recruitment and acquisition.
Working across the wider Sport Republic group, including Southampton FC, Göztepe and Valenciennes, this senior leadership role will oversee the development of advanced data models, recruitment intelligence systems, AI projects, and performance reporting frameworks that support football decision-making at every level.
Head of Data and Research
⚽ Key Responsibilities
- Lead all data and research activities supporting First Team recruitment and player acquisition
- Develop proprietary player models to identify and evaluate talent across multiple clubs
- Conduct detailed due diligence and analytical screening of recruitment targets
- Support evidence-based recruitment decisions through advanced player evaluation methodologies
- Build and develop advanced data science models to support coaching, recruitment, player development, sports science, and medical departments
- Work closely with analysts and coaches to monitor team performance and provide tactical insights
- Develop game model reporting systems, including post-match reviews, six-game trend reports, and football board reports
- Conduct ongoing football research to identify new opportunities and competitive advantages
- Support the development of Sport Republic databases, software systems, dashboards, and applications
- Build data visualisation tools and reporting frameworks for football stakeholders
- Lead AI strategy and implementation across football operations
- Ensure the club remains at the forefront of emerging technologies and data providers
- Work closely with senior coaches, scouts, analysts, and football executives across the Sport Republic group
- Drive a data-informed culture across football operations
- Provide strategic leadership on football intelligence, research, and innovation projects
Essential Requirements
- Degree in Data Science, Statistics, or another highly numerate discipline
- Advanced programming skills in Python and/or R
- Experience working with SQL databases
- Advanced knowledge of data science, statistical modelling, and analytics
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence decision-making through data
⭐ Desirable
- MSc or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, or related field
- Advanced knowledge of football analytics and recruitment modelling
- Experience applying data science within professional football environments
- Experience working with senior stakeholders including coaches, scouts, analysts, and executives within elite football
Benefits Include
- Two complimentary tickets for every Southampton FC home league match
- Health & Wellbeing initiatives
- Discounted club merchandise
- 26 days annual leave plus birthday leave
- Contributory pension scheme
- Worldwide family travel insurance
- Learning & Development opportunities
- Free onsite parking
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Inclusive and collaborative working culture
️ Safeguarding & Inclusion
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check with Children’s Barred List.
Southampton FC is committed to safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion, creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to achieve their full potential.
An outstanding opportunity to lead football data strategy and recruitment intelligence at one of the most progressive football organisations in Europe.