We are Recruiting for a West Country based Player Development Manager

WHO WE ARE

The Netball Players Association (NPA) is the professional body representing netball players in the UK. We are committed to supporting the growth of the sport, promoting the welfare of players, and enhancing the visibility of netball in the UK. As we continue to expand, we are looking for a passionate and dedicated individual to join our team as a Player Development Manager.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The NPA Player Development Manager will play a pivotal role in building strong relationships with players across 3 NSL/ NXT Gen clubs, Birmingham Panthers, Lexis Nexis Dragons and Team Bath, delivering engaging development programme workshops, and supporting player care and welfare initiatives.

To undertake the role in the hours available the role holder will need to be based with easy access  to the clubs in Cardiff, Birmingham and Bath.

This role combines direct player engagement, workshop facilitation and delivery, and a strong understanding of player welfare and support systems.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Relationship Building

Programme Development & Delivery:

• Contribute to the development and delivery of a tailored personal development programme for netball players at various stages of their career.

• Alongside specialist providers contribute to both group and one-on-one coaching sessions that focus on skills such as career planning, personal growth, mindset, leadership, and identifying post-sport career options.

• Support players in reflecting on their sports journey, talents, and strengths, helping them recognise transferable skills for life after professional sport.

Transition Support:

• Guide players through key transition points, such as career changes, retirement, and managing mental well-being.

• Facilitate workshops on topics such as financial planning, life balance, building a personal brand, and establishing new career pathways.

Player Empowerment:

• Foster a positive and supportive environment for players to openly discuss their challenges and aspirations.

• Encourage self-awareness and help players define their values, passions, and long-term goals beyond netball.

Collaboration & Reporting:

• Collaborate with the NSL and NXT Gen club coaching staff, management, and other stakeholders to align personal development initiatives with the players' athletic goals and organisational objectives.

• Regularly report on player progress, outcomes, and feedback from the development programme.

Monitoring & Administration:

• Monitor and report on player engagement, workshop attendance, and feedback to inform continuous improvement of programmes.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records relating to player interactions, welfare concerns, and development activities.

• Stay informed about best practices in athlete welfare, safeguarding, and personal development within sport.

• Support the promotion of NPA initiatives, events, and resources to players and clubs.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Essential Skills & Experience 1

Experience in Personal Development/Coaching:

• Experience of working with individuals or teams in a developmental or coaching capacity, ideally in a sports or performance environment.

Strong Communication Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage and relate to players.

• Ability to build trust and rapport with athletes, coaches, and support staff.

  
  

Empathy & Understanding:

• A compassionate, empathetic approach to working with athletes, understanding the emotional and psychological challenges they may face.

• Demonstrable ability to provide motivation, encouragement, and constructive feedback.

Essential Skills & Experience 2

Organisational & Time Management Skills:

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple activities and deadlines.

• Capable of managing a part-time workload and maintaining flexibility to adapt to players' schedules.

Practical Transition Knowledge and Understanding:

• Knowledge of career coaching, life skills development, financial literacy, and post-sport career options.

• Performance Lifestyle experience desirable.

Adaptability & Problem-Solving:

• Ability to adjust strategies and approaches based on the unique needs of individual players.

• Skilled at identifying and addressing challenges related to player well-being and career progression.

Professional Qualifications:

• Educated to Degree level or similar

Personal Attributes

• A strong enthusiasm for supporting athletes in their growth and development both within and beyond their sports careers.

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse team of professionals, including athletes, coaches, and organisational leadership.

• Ability to handle sensitive information with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.

• Knowledge of the netball landscape in the UK

Desirable Experience

• Experience of working in the netball landscape in the UK

• Experience working with professional athletes or in a sports association

• Familiarity with safeguarding and data privacy regulations (e.g. GDPR)

WHAT ARE WE OFFERING

Terms

• Location: Home-based in the Bristol (or surrounding) area with regular travel to NSL/ NXT Gen clubs and events

• Allocation of clubs: This role is planned to work with Birmingham Panthers, LexisNexis Dragons and Team Bath

• Contract: Part-Time: up to 400 hours per year, on a 2-year contract to align with funding. Three-month probationary period

• Salary range: An hourly rate of £22-25/hour dependant on experience

• Reports to: Director of Player Services

**All NPA roles are freelance with post holders responsible for invoicing monthly

HOW TO APPLY

Send your CV along with a covering letter outlining why you are the ideal candidate for the role to our Director of Player Services sarah@netballpa.com

If you would like an informal conversation about the role contact Sarah to arrange a call

The Netball Players Association is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity organisation. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background

Closing date for applications 26^th June at 5pm. Short listed candidates will be invited to an initial virtual interview the week commencing 13^th July 2026

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