Head of Data and Research

Location: Staplewood Campus (In-office full-time)

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Criminal Record Check: DBS Enhanced with Childs Barred List

What is the role?

We are looking to appoint a Head of Data and Research who will lead all data and research for Southampton Football Club (SFC) with a focus on recruitment and acquisition of first team players. Whilst SFC will be your primary focus, you and your team will also provide data support to the other clubs in the Sport Republic group (Goztepe and Valenciennes).

What will you be doing?

You will build and develop advanced proprietary data models to support decision-making across all departments including coaching, scouting/recruitment, player development, sport science and medical.

Working closely with analysts and coaches, you will monitor team performance and create tactical insight to enhance coaches' knowledge and encourage data-driven decision-making. You will support the development of database designs, Sport Republic software systems and apps while building dashboards and data visualisation and conducting ongoing research to provide new insights into game model and scouting/recruitment operations.

You will manage and develop game model reporting systems which track team performance, including post-match reports, six-game match reports and review sessions and board football reports.

Performing detailed due diligence to screen target players, you will support the recruitment decision-making process as well as oversee the development of team player models to support the identification of talent across multiple clubs.

You will stay at the forefront of technological advancement and data companies/providers and have a strong understanding of how to utilise AI, ensuring SFC are using the appropriate AI tools/systems across all delivery and taking responsibility for all AI projects.

Is this you?

You are a team player with strong communication skills and extensive experience of using data science to help drive decision-making and solve business problems.

You are happy to be based in our Staplewood office (Southampton) full-time.

Essential Skills, Qualifications and Experience 

• Degree in Data Science, Statistics or other numerate subject.
• Advanced programming skills (R/Python).
• Experience working with SQL databases.
• Advanced knowledge of data science and statistics.

Desirable Skills, Qualifications and Experience 

• MSc/PhD in Data Science, Statistics or other numerate subject.
• Advanced knowledge of football analytics and experience of applying data science in a football club.
• Experience of working within an elite football environment with senior stakeholders including coaches, scouts and analysts.

How this benefits you… 

If you are successful, you can look forward to a healthy benefits package; 

• Access to 2 free match tickets for every home league game
• Access to our staff Health & Wellbeing initiatives (Mental & Physical Health).
• Discounted Southampton Football Club merchandise.
• 26 days’ holiday per year excluding bank holidays plus your birthday off each year.
• Contributory Pension Scheme.
• Worldwide Travel Insurance for you and your family.
• Learning & Development opportunities - supporting you to develop your potential and achieve in your career.
• Free onsite parking.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Collaborative & inclusive working culture.

How can I apply? 

Just click on the apply button, enter your details and answer a quick pre-screening questionnaire, then attach your CV. 

The closing date for this role is 01 July 2026. 

*We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if a high volume of applicants are received. * 

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect everyone to share this commitment. You will be required to adhere to all relevant policies and uphold the Club’s commitment to safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk and to ensure that Southampton Football Club is free from discrimination and harassment.

The post holder will demonstrate a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, supporting the organisation’s strategic aims to remove barriers and address inequality. You will play an active role in promoting an inclusive, discrimination-free environment that ensures fair access to opportunities and resources. This includes fostering a culture of dignity, respect, and belonging where everyone is empowered to contribute, perform, and reach their full potential.