Head Coach - Job Specification

Leeds Laces is a community‑driven club committed to creating inclusive, empowering football environments for women and non‑binary people. Our coaches play a vital role in shaping positive experiences, supporting player development, and helping teams thrive both on and off the pitch.

Role Purpose

The Head Coach is responsible for leading the coaching and matchday delivery for one Leeds Laces women’s football team, while also supporting and coordinating coaching activity across the wider club. The role exists to ensure players receive a high-quality, inclusive, and values-led football experience, and that coaches are supported, developed, and connected.

Alongside coaching one team, the Head Coach plays a key role in strengthening the club’s coaching structure—supporting recruitment where needed, sharing resources, coordinating CPD, and working with the County FA to create development opportunities.

This role balances on-pitch delivery with off-pitch coordination and leadership.

Time Commitment

  • Training: 2 hours per week

  • Matchdays: Approximately 3 hours per week (September–May season, with occasional summer friendlies)

  • This role will be fixed for 1 year, with the opportunity to renew in the summer.

Key Responsibilities

Team Coaching and Matchday Delivery

  • Plan and deliver 2 hours of training per week for one Leeds Laces team.

  • Lead matchday activity on Sundays, with arrival from 1pm for a 2pm kick-off.

  • Create inclusive, engaging, and player-centred training sessions.

  • Support player development, confidence, and enjoyment of the game.

Coaching Oversight and Support

  • Support and coordinate other coaches across the club.

  • Help ensure each team has two coaches in role.

  • Take the lead on coach recruitment where gaps exist, working with the Operations Lead and committee

  • Act as a point of support and guidance for coaches when needed.

Training and Facilities Coordination

  • Work with the Operations Lead to ensure pitch space allocation for training is planned and communicated clearly.

  • Support effective use and sharing of training spaces and equipment.

  • Flag facility or scheduling issues early and help find solutions.

Coaching Resources and Quality

  • Support the sharing of coaching resources, session ideas, and best practice across teams.

  • Encourage consistency in values-led coaching, while respecting different coaching styles.

  • Support reflective practice and learning across the coaching group.

Coach Development and CPD

  • Coordinate coaching CPD opportunities across the club.

  • Work with the County FA (West Riding FA) to create development opportunities for Leeds Laces coaches.

  • Support coaches to access courses, workshops, and learning experiences.

Player Pathways into Coaching

  • Actively support and encourage players who are interested in coaching.

  • Help promote and coordinate access to Stepping Over the Sideline and other relevant pathways through West Riding FA.

  • Work with the People Lead to ensure coaching pathways are welcoming, inclusive, and well-supported.

Collaboration and Values

  • Work closely with the Operations Lead, People Lead, and committee.

  • Champion the club’s values, including inclusion, wellbeing, and research-led practice.

  • Contribute to a positive, supportive, and collaborative club culture.

Skills and Experience

Essential

  • Experience coaching adult or youth football.

  • Strong communication and organisational skills.

  • Commitment to inclusive, player-centred coaching.

  • Ability to support and work collaboratively with other coaches.

Desirable

  • FA Coaching Qualification

  • Experience supporting or mentoring other coaches.

  • Experience working within grassroots or community football.

  • Familiarity with County FA structures and coach development pathways.

  • Interest in empowering players into coaching roles.

Recruitment Process

This role is subject to an application process - to apply, please submit the following to hello@leedslaces.co.uk

  • A CV (max 2 pages)

  • A cover letter outlining your coaching experience, approach, and interest in the role (max 1 page)

Applications will be reviewed by the club committee. Safeguarding checks will apply in line with FA requirements.