Vacancy: Football Data Strategy Associate

Vacancy: Football Data Strategy Associate

Work for Leeds United

An exciting job opportunity has arisen at Leeds United Football Club for anyone with a passion in data design and analysis. 

Elland Road has been the home of Leeds United since 1919 and remains one of English football's great theatres and is ‘the only place for us’ ever since. With a capacity of 37, 890, it is one of England’s largest football grounds. 

Everyone at Leeds United is dedicated to working as one team and to be the best we can be. 

Come be part of our fabulous team as we March on Together. 

The Football Department at Leeds United is working to improve the use of data analytics and software tools to improve our operations. These tools will help us with player and coach recruitment, game analysis, player fitness, and other strategic elements. We are looking for individuals who combine intellectual curiosity, a passion for data analysis and presentation, and effective communication to help cross functional teams succeed. 

Main Responsibilities: 

  • Own the design and implementation of automated data analysis / visualizations / reports which provide rapidly available, better-than-publicly-available-tools insights on player performance, player development, game tactics and results, manager performance and trends, etc. These tools should be “beautiful evidence” conveying crucial insights in an effective and multi-layered yet not overly complex way and will surely include custom developed data visualizations beyond what can be generated with BI tools such as Tableau or Power BI.
  • Work prospectively with various internal and external parties on designing intelligent ways to use data to understand and inform the game of football (this role will not be asked to be the sole or final authority on data science or model design).
  • Be responsive to various internal stakeholders in providing ad hoc data analyses and user support/education. Serve as analyst, educator, and trainer in offering insights on matters as needed. This will require listening, communication, and project management skills beyond simply developing reports or analyses.

Required Relevant Experiences: 

  • At least 3+ years and preferably 5+ years of professional experience in the implementation of custom data analysis dashboards/reports, ideally across multiple subjects and for audiences of differing levels of data literacy.
  • Multiple years of professional experience or (or professional-grade unpaid experience) with languages such as R or Python for data visualization is absolutely required, and experience using those languages to visualize sports specifically is preferred.
  • Experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau or Power BI is required.
  • Strong communication skills both as an empathetic learner from our teammates and an effective communicator (teacher) as we roll out tools and processes. Low-ego listener / collaborator.

Technical Skills & Experience we are looking for 

  • Experience in football analysis is preferred, though experience both within football and outside of professional sports is ideal.
  • Experience in managing data infrastructure (ETL, API’s, Data storage) is preferred but not required.
  • Able to work in a high pressured environment with a cool head and strong team work.
  • Excellent organisational skills with the ability to work with total discretion.
  • Ability to work locally to Leeds United (at Elland Road, and occasionally at Thorp Arch Training Ground).
  • Examples of previously developed data visualizations will be required as part of the interview process (can be redacted/modified/etc as needed).

Behavioural attributes we are looking for: 

  • Inspires others and is a positive role model
  • Is personable and able to connect and build relationships with others easily
  • Demands high standards and has an attention to detail
  • Shares the vision and values of the Club and is motivated to achieve its objectives
  • Able to work in a high-profile environment with regular media coverage and public interest
  • Is responsible and acts in the best interests of the Club
  • Is open minded, innovative and willing to explore new ideas/concepts
  • Enjoys facing challenges and have the resilience and resourcefulness to see complex tasks through
  • Is proactive and able to identify and mitigate risks
  • Is a collaborator and relishes the opportunity to work alongside others to overcome challenges and achieve goals
  • Willing to share their knowledge experience as part of a community of practice
  • Able to work with players, staff and other stakeholders of varying ages, experience, backgrounds and
    cultures
  • Committed to personal development and continuous improvement
  • Possesses a strong work ethic and are motivated to be the best they can be
  • Able to promote the positive image of the Club
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Reliable, punctual & honest
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Positivity and objectiveness
  • Ability to use initiative and be creative
  • Ability to prioritise and manage time effectively
  • Confident and assertive
  • Ambition, passion and willingness to learn

EQUALITY & DIVERSITY: 

As we are a diverse organisation that respects differences in race, ethnicity, religion or belief(s), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age or with regards to pregnancy or maternity, we welcome all applications. We want everyone to feel valued and included in the football community and to achieve their full potential. Leeds United is opposed to any form of discrimination and commits itself to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate. 

SAFEGUARDING & RECRUITMENT: 

Leeds United FC are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and expect all staff to share this commitment. All staff, whatever their role will receive safeguarding training and will be expected to champion the culture of 'safeguarding is everybody's responsibility'. 

You can apply by completing our online application form: 

https://forms.office.com/e/QYd6kpC2fv  

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