YDP Physical Performance Manager
JOB TITLE: YDP Physical Performance Manager
LOCATION: Chelsea FC Training Ground, Cobham. Travel as required
JOB TYPE: Full-time, permanent
REPORTING TO: Head of Performance Sciences - Academy
DIRECT REPORTS: 2 x YDP Athletic Development Coaches (1 × full-time, 1 × part-time)
Closing date: 30th October
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. In the event that we receive a large number of applications, the position may be filled before the listed closing date. To avoid missing out, please submit your application at your earliest convenience.
About Chelsea Football Club’s Academy Performance Support Team
At Chelsea Academy, we want to deliver Performance Sciences and Physical Development differently. We are continuing to evolve our structure and build a team who give the Academy and Club the best chance of sustained success. The Academy Performance Support team is a crucial part of the academy in it’s drive to be the 'Global Leader in Youth Development' - To enable us to produce the next generation of the PL best players.
We have made significant progress towards this goal and continue to build momentum, evolve further and continually strive for success, with the belief that the best is yet to come. We want people who are excited to be part of this process and are passionate about youth development.
The Heartbeat of the Chelsea Academy
The Youth Development Phase is the heartbeat of our academy pathway. Within this phase, growth and maturation, skill acquisition and performance behaviours come together to form the foundation of a programme that builds robust, adaptable and athletic players who are ready to physically dominate in the PDP and men’s football. The stability and consistency of the programme within the YDP means there are significant opportunities to impact athletic development and shape our players as athletes and as people for the future, making it a critical part of the wider academy.
A Destination, Not a Stepping Stone
At Chelsea, we see the YDP as a destination in its own right, not a stepping stone. Every practitioner has a voice within our structure. This role sits at the centre of how the Academy develops its players, with the opportunity to influence our approach and be a leader within the department. Built around our on site Full Time School programme, the YDP offers a more structured and predictable weekly rhythm, giving you time to plan with intent, coach with depth and invest in developing players and staff.
Job Overview
This role will play a key part in how Chelsea develops the next generation of the Premier League’s best players. As YDP Phase Manager, you will set the vision and direction for athletic development across our U14–U16 Full Time School programme. Working alongside the Head of Performance Sciences, you will define a future-facing philosophy that keeps Chelsea at the cutting edge of youth development.
You will combine strategic leadership of the phase with hands-on coaching of the U16 squad, so our principles show up every day on the grass. You will build and lead a high-performing team, developing your Athletic Development Coaches into outstanding practitioners and creating an environment where every player is challenged, supported and understood as an individual.
Your success will show not just in availability and physical capability measures. It will show in the robust, adaptable and confident young athletes who move on from the YDP ready to thrive and dominate in the PDP and mens game.
Your Skills, Experience & Personal Traits
We are looking for someone with a deep passion for youth athletic development, skill acquisition and the development of performance behaviours, who takes pride in seeing young people grow over time. You will have a deep understanding of adolescent development, be highly organised with strong planning skills, a creative and adaptable coach, and a leader who develops staff with clarity and care, bringing a growth mindset and the ambition to help shape the future of the Chelsea Academy.
