Academy Director

“FC Cincinnati”•Cincinnati, OH

23h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Academy Director will lead all aspects of FC Cincinnati’s Academy program and oversee the daily sporting and administrative operations of the Academy. Reporting to the Director of Player Development, this individual will be responsible for building an elite developmental environment that prepares players for progression into FC Cincinnati 2 and ultimately the First Team. The Academy Director will also play a key leadership role in coach education, staffing, talent identification, and the long-term strategic growth of the Academy.

Requirements

Complete proficiency in the use of the Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint
Must be willing to work nights, weekends and holidays, and be prepared for extensive travel for preseason, away games, post-season trips, et cetera
Must have excellent interpersonal written/verbal communication skills, be detail-oriented and highly organized with the ability to simultaneously handle multiple tasks and adapt to change
Ability to create and maintain effective relationships with parents
Ability to effectively recruit players and their families to Cincinnati
Current expertise in U.S. and world soccer from the Academy to the 1st Team level, and a willingness to continue to learn best practices
Represent FCC in a professional manner at all times
Fluent in English

Nice To Haves

USSF “A” coaching license or equivalent
Bachelor’s degree from a 4 year university and/or have been a professional soccer player at a country’s highest level for at least 5 years
Minimum of 7 years youth soccer coaching experience
Must have at least 3 years of experience coach
Must pass SafeSport background check

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the day-to-day sporting and administrative operations of the FC Cincinnati Academy.
Implement and maintain the Club’s player development methodology and game model consistently across all Academy age groups.
Oversee curriculum planning, training periodization, and competition schedules to ensure age-appropriate development.
Work collaboratively with the Director of Player Development, FC Cincinnati 2 staff, and First Team technical staff to maintain a consistent player development pathway.
Manage the Academy coaching staff, including hiring, mentorship, evaluation, and ongoing professional development.
Create and maintain a comprehensive coach education program that reinforces the Club’s playing philosophy, training standards, and developmental expectations.
Establish and maintain high performance standards and accountability across all Academy teams and staff.
Support player identification and recruitment efforts throughout the local, regional, national, and international youth markets as appropriate.
Maintain clear and consistent communication with players, parents, coaches, and internal stakeholders regarding Academy standards and expectations.
Ensure compliance with MLS, MLS NEXT, U.S. Soccer, SafeSport, and all other governing body regulations and standards.
Represent FC Cincinnati and the Academy in a professional manner within the local community and broader soccer landscape.