Individual Development Lead

Nycfc • Orangeburg & Queens, NY

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

New York City FC is seeking an Individual Development Lead. This role will lead and coordinate the Academy's individual player development program, ensuring every player receives a structured, intentional and aligned development experience. The role is responsible for designing, implementing and monitoring Individual Development Plans (IDPs), whilst providing enhanced support for the Academy's highest potential players through targeted coaching, mentoring and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Requirements

• UEFA A License (or equivalent US Soccer license)
• Extensive experience within an elite academy or high-performance football environment.
• Demonstrable experience designing and leading individual player development programs.
• Excellent understanding of long-term player development.
• Experience working within multidisciplinary environments.
• Strong planning, organizational and communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license
• Knowledge of Microsoft office; PowerPoint, Word, and Excel
• Player-centered and development focused.
• Excellent communicator and relationship builder.
• High standards with strong attention to detail.
• Collaborative leadership style.
• Innovative, proactive and committed to continuous improvement.
• Able to influence and challenge positively.
• Applicants must be able to comply with MLS Next Safety and Well-Being policy and any other applicable child safety policies provided to applicants by NYCFC.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Academy Individual Development Program across all age groups.
• Design, implement and continually refine the Academy IDP framework.
• Ensure every Academy player has an Individual Development Plan aligned to the Academy Game Model and Methodology.
• Identify individual learning priorities through observation, training and match analysis.
• Create clear objectives and action plans for players throughout the season.
• Ensure development is intentional, measurable and aligned across departments.
• Lead the Academy High Potential Player Program.
• Prioritize enhanced support for the Academy's highest projected players.
• Coordinate additional technical, tactical and position-specific interventions.
• Provide regular one-to-one mentoring and career guidance.
• Monitor player trajectory and recommend progression opportunities.
• Liaise with player families, and other pertinent stakeholders, to ensure alignment between the player and the club.
• Deliver on-field individual coaching sessions.
• Lead individual and small-group technical development clinics.
• Deliver video analysis sessions and feedback.
• Support coaches in embedding individual objectives into team practice.
• Ensure interventions complement team training.
• Maintain accurate player development records and IDPs.
• Lead regular multidisciplinary player reviews.
• Monitor progress against agreed KPIs.
• Provide reports and recommendations to the Academy Director and Academy Technical Director.
• Support retain/release and pathway decisions.
• Coordinate collaboration between coaching, performance, medical, psychology, education and player care.
• Ensure accountability for agreed player action plans.
• Maintain regular communication with players and families regarding development where appropriate.
• Drive consistency of individual development throughout the Academy.
• Attend Academy training, matches and tournaments as required.
• Contribute to Academy leadership meetings.
• Remain current with best practice in elite player development.
• Maintain strong links with City Football Group and relevant stakeholders.
• Undertake any additional duties as directed by the Academy Director.

Benefits

• Excellent health, dental & vision insurance, with options to fit you and your family’s needs
• Comprehensive and competitive benefit programs, including maternal & paternal leave
• Ancillary benefits: Commuter, and Citi Bike discounts
• Wellness strategy focuses on mental and physical wellbeing through in-office and virtual programs
• Four complementary tickets to every NYCFC home match
• Team outings, happy hours, and annual staff gatherings to celebrate our co-workers
• A dynamic, ambitious, and fun work environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed