Job title: VAR Manager
Reports to: Technical Director
Location: VAR Hub, with requirement for frequent additional travel within the UK
Contract: Full time – Permanent contract

Organisation Overview:

Formed in 2001 to improve refereeing standards, PGMOL manage the 600 match officials operating in the Premier League, EFL, Women’s Super League and Championship, National League and FA Competitions. PGMOL is responsible for the recruitment, training, development and mentoring of all match officials.

Role Purpose:

Reporting to the Technical Director, the VAR Manager is a key management position in PGMOL’s pursuit of excellence in its implementation of VAR. The role has specific responsibility for all aspects of managing and implementing the VAR programme across PGMOL, including but not limited to VAR and AVAR talent identification, instruction, training, coaching, appointing, match performance and evaluation. This position also plays a pivotal role in all VAR-related stakeholder engagements, and in the advocacy of Video Match Officials utilised in PGMOL-serviced competitions.

The VAR Manager will regularly attend the VAR Hub to observe Video Match Official activities and provide feedback as required, in addition to regularly attending match official training camps to provide instruction in group and one-to-one settings.

Main Duties:
(Include but are not limited to)

• Manage all aspects of VAR delivery by PGMOL in the competitions it serves which utilise VAR technology.
• Create and deliver training programs to facilitate certification of new VARs and AVARs, and re-certification of existing VARs and AVARs. Delegate as appropriate to the VAR Coach.
• Provide line management for the VAR Coach.
• Deliver ongoing bespoke development programs for existing VARs and AVARs through creation of online learning material. Coordinate and attend match official training camps to provide VAR-specific and AVAR-specific training input.
• Organise and deliver bespoke in person and online training sessions relating to VAR
• Provide draft VAR and AVAR appointments on a weekly basis. Attend the weekly on-line appointment calls.
• Provide PGMOL representation on VAR-related stakeholder working groups and other such forums.
• Assess the performance of all VARs and AVARs for every match round through personal attendance at the VAR Hub or through analysis of captured footage, and provide appropriate feedback.
• Utilise Video Match Official performance metrics to record and track performance levels. Regularly reviewing such metrics to ensure ongoing relevance.
• Provide input on the weekly performance review management meetings.
• Provide weekly feedback and guidance to match officials by through online tools such as PGMOL Portal, MOAS and/or playlists on 8by8.
• Represent PGMOL to enhance relationships and collaboration with PGMOL VAR partners, such as the Premier League and Hawkeye.
• Provide regular updates to members of the media and Premier League broadcast partners on all aspects of VAR.
• Liaise with The IFAB, UEFA and FIFA on all VAR-related matters.
• Produce periodic performance reports relating to PGMOL’s VAR performance.
• Attend PGMOL’s annual conference.
• Represent and promote the best interests of PGMOL at all times.




Person Specification:
(Experience, qualifications, skills, aptitudes, and personal qualities)

Essential:
Qualifications/experience:
• Previous experience of delivering video officiating as a practitioner, manager or coach.
• Evidence of continuing professional and personal development.

Knowledge:
• Expert level of understanding of VAR procedures, processes and protocols.

Skills:
• Strong computer skills, including advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• High level of proficiency in the use of sports specific video software and equipment.
• Proficiency in cloud-based communications.

Behaviours:
• Passion for instruction, coaching, mentoring, and evaluation.
• Outstanding organisational and leadership skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including frequent travel.
• Ability to maintain the highest level of professionalism within a professional sports environment.
• Very strong ability to work independently and adapt in a fast-paced and flexible environment, yet also a strong team player.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail.

Desirable:
• Experience of working in a football or NGB environment.
• Experience of professional-level football refereeing.
• Experience in a sports-related management role.

To apply please attach a CV together with a one-page letter outlining your suitability for the role. You can apply by using this link: https://pgmol.pinpointhq.com/postings/afc7415d-262e-41b8-95f4-5add141744d6 Please note that you need to have the right to work in the UK. PGMOL is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.