Shape the Future of Sport. Drive Growth. Create Opportunity.

We are seeking an ambitious and commercially focused Director of Sport, Academies & Commercial Innovation to lead the next phase of growth for our sport provision, academies and commercial operations.

This is an exciting senior leadership opportunity to drive the development of our sports academies, expand commercial income streams and establish a market-leading Institute of Sport. Reporting to the Vice Principal of Commercial Growth, Academies & Higher Skills, you will provide strategic leadership across sport, business development, partnerships and innovation.

As Director of Sport, Academies & Commercial Innovation, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing our reputation regionally, nationally and internationally, creating outstanding opportunities for learners while delivering sustainable commercial growth. You will lead the growth of our academies, facilities, partnerships and the Wolves brand, ensuring sport remains a key driver of success across the College.

You will work closely with curriculum leaders, employers, governing bodies, professional clubs and community stakeholders to create innovative pathways that combine educational achievement, athletic development and commercial excellence.

The successful candidate will be equally comfortable developing strategic partnerships, driving income generation, leading high-performing teams and identifying new opportunities that enhance student experiences and organisational performance.

Day-to-Day Impact

Strategic Leadership & Growth

• Lead the strategic development of sport academies, commercial operations and the Institute of Sport.

• Shape and deliver a long-term vision that supports growth, sustainability and sector-leading innovation.

• Represent the College at regional, national and international level, building profile and influence.

Commercial Development & Income Generation

• Identify and develop new revenue streams across sports facilities, programmes and partnerships.

• Maximise commercial opportunities through facility lettings, community engagement and employer partnerships.

• Develop pricing strategies, sponsorship packages and innovative commercial offers that drive sustainable income growth.

Sport Academies & Institute of Sport

• Lead the growth and development of our sporting academies and performance pathways.

• Establish and develop the Institute of Sport as a centre of excellence for education, performance and applied practice.

• Drive the growth of the Wolves brand and create opportunities for learners at local, national and international levels.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and strengthen relationships with governing bodies, professional clubs, schools, employers and strategic partners.

• Secure sponsorship, investment and collaborative partnerships that support learner outcomes and commercial objectives.

• Act as a senior ambassador for the College and its sporting provision.

Innovation & Leadership

• Lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams across sport, performance and commercial operations.

• Drive innovation through technology, performance analysis and digital solutions.

• Identify opportunities for new facilities, programmes and external funding to support future growth.

Is This You?

We're looking for a visionary leader with a passion for sport, education and commercial growth. You'll be motivated by creating opportunities, building partnerships and delivering impactful results that benefit learners, communities and the wider organisation.

You'll bring:

• Significant experience leading commercial, sports development or business growth initiatives.

• A proven track record of generating income and delivering sustainable commercial success.

• Experience managing high-performing, multidisciplinary teams.

• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and build lasting partnerships.

• Excellent financial, strategic planning and operational management capabilities.

• Knowledge of the sport, education, leisure or commercial sectors.

• Outstanding communication and leadership skills with the ability to inspire others.

• A degree or professional qualification in Sport, Business, Education or a related discipline.

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualification such as an MBA or MSc.

• Experience securing sponsorship, investment or external funding.

• Experience developing centres of excellence or large-scale sporting programmes.

• Experience of international partnerships and programme development.

• Knowledge of Further Education and learner-focused sporting pathways.

Why Join Us?

• Generous holiday allowance – 35 days plus bank holidays.

• Local Government Pension Scheme with excellent employer contributions.

• Ongoing CPD and free access to Adult Community Learning courses.

• Free onsite permit parking.

• Access to onsite gym and wellness treatments at discounted rates.

• Cycle to Work Scheme and discounted travel through UNO Bus Scheme.

• Eye care vouchers and employee assistance programme.

• Mental health and wellbeing support, including peer supporters.

• Staff development days and annual awards celebrating your achievements.

Apply Now

If you're ready to lead an ambitious sport and commercial growth strategy, develop future talent and build a sector-leading sporting offer, we'd love to hear from you.

Join us and help transform sporting excellence into opportunity, innovation and growth.

We are committed to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks.