A Head of Football Analytics


Earlier this year, the canoe slalom program in Great Britain advertised for a performance data analyst.
I though this marked a fascinating change in the sport and underscored for me the opportunities that are now appearing in sport that signal a fundamental shift in how learning journeys are being experienced in industry and in education systems.
This week, Leicester City are adding to this momentum with the advertisement of a Head of Football Analytics opportunity. I hoped the club would extend its expertise in an area they energised with their Tactical Insights Day in 2016.

The Role

  • Produce unique and insightful performance metrics and analysis, using data modelling.
  • Ensure that existing and new databases are maintained and updated promptly.
  • Collaborate with appropriate members of staff at the club, and develop strategies to raise the overall levels of data literacy, analysis and visualisation.
  • Develop the integrated, club-wide approach to providing data driven insights for performance evaluation, player recruitment, sports science and medical aspects of the club.
  • Pro-active in the organisation and implementation of data analysis-based CPD learning activities within the club.

The person Leicester is seeking:

  • Significant experience of working as part of a professional sports organisation, or other sports-related industries.
  • Experience of managing large datasets, and producing high-quality data insights and visualisations for end-users.
  • Experience from other areas may still be considered, based on the relevance to this role.
    Masters or PhD in a numerate subject, this may include Statistics, Economics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or related subjects.
  • Advanced coding ability (R, Python, XML/XSLT manipulations).
  • Demonstrable working knowledge of databases, SQL and database design.
  • Knowledge of using API’s to manage data sets, and experience using JSON scripts.
  • Familiarity with raw data files such as Opta F24 & TracAb.
  • Good time management & organisational skills, and ability to adhere to deadlines.
  • Excellent written and communication skills in English, with the ability to present results clearly (verbally & visually), and to develop close working relationships with existing staff members with varied levels of data analysis experience.
  • Demonstrable knowledge of football, and of how data analytics are currently being used to impact decision making processes in professional sport.

I noted Ted Knutson’s tweet about this opportunity.


Photo Credit
Leicester City ready for kick off (Ronnie Macdonald, CC BY 2.0)

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