Head of Set Pieces

Job purpose

1. To design and deliver a specialist set piece strategy to  develop and maximise the performance of all QPR teams in all set-piece situations.
2. To lead First Team set piece coaching, ensuring high performance through the analysis, planning, delivery and review process of all sessions and match performances considering external trends.
3. To provide detailed analysis of set piece strengths and weaknesses of opponents and assist the First Team Head Coach in preparing the First Team for these opponents.
4. To oversee and support the set piece planning, analysing and coaching for the Women’s team and the  Academy  

Summary

Reports to: CEO and Head of Methodology.

Key contacts: First Team Head Coach; First Team Coaching Staff; Performance Analysis Department; Head of Methodology.

Hours: Full time. Due to the nature of the post regular evening and weekend work will be necessary.

Role accountabilities & key duties

Set Piece Analysis, Design & Coaching – First Team

• Complete a thorough analysis of upcoming opponents’ set-piece tendencies, identifying strengths and weaknesses in comparison to our own.
• Conduct detailed analysis of high-performing set-piece routines across the top leagues and international competitions.
• Collate and maintain a diverse database of innovative set-piece plays tailored to the team’s player strengths.
• Design and lead coaching sessions to execute tailored set-piece strategies effectively.
• Collaborate with the Head Coach to structure the training week, allocating ample practice time to refine set-piece strategies against the upcoming opponent.
• Deliver high-intensity, engaging set-piece coaching sessions that emphasise detail and clarity.
• Assume a leadership role on match days, communicating pre-game strategy, analysing the opponent’s defensive set pieces in real-time, and suggesting adjustments to maximise scoring opportunities. 
• Maintain a comprehensive database of the team’s own set-piece statistics and performance.
• Utilise video analysis software and data to evaluate set-piece effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
• Work with individual players to improve specific set-piece skills (including but not limited to heading, shooting and delivery).
• Identify and mentor players possessing strong set-piece abilities.
• Embed set piece principles based on the club database through the delivery of individual and group analysis sessions.
• Review set piece performance after every game and feedback to staff and players about our strengths and weaknesses.
• Feed into the Club Playing Model and recruitment strategy on requirements for new players aligned to the set piece strategy and assist as requested with reporting on potential future signings.
• As requested by the CEO provide analysis and key metrics regarding set pieces.
• Design defensive strategies to counter the opposition’s set-piece threats.
• Coach players on defensive positioning, marking assignments, and tactical approaches to defending set-pieces.

Set Piece Analysis, Design & Coaching – Women and Academy

• Deliver weekly set piece analysis and coaching sessions with the U18, U21 and Women’s teams.
• Review set piece performance of the U18, U21 and Women’s teams  after every game and feedback to staff and players about our strengths and weaknesses.
• Provide support and development the U9-U16 coaches with the content and delivery of set pieces, ensuring age appropriate methodology is  devised and implemented.

Leadership:

• To work closely with the Academy Director and Head of Methodology to design technical documents to support the Academy’s Performance Plan.
• To provide mentoring support to Academy Coaching Staff, ensuring that First Team set piece principles are disseminated across the Professional Development Phase.
• Adopt a positive and progressive attitude to set pieces around the training ground and take a lead role to ensure that all players and staff understand the importance of set pieces for the Club.
• Take ownership of the set pieces strategy and performance at the Club to be built with the Game Model in mind.

Conduct & safeguarding:

• To ensure that any safeguarding or welfare concerns are reported efficiently.
• To comply with all company policies/procedures and adhere to all company regulations regarding policies, procedures, health, safety, and security.
• Ensure that sufficient time and attention is given to all mandatory training and CPD as required by the Club or relevant industry bodies.

Person specification

Qualifications:

Essential:

• UEFA A Licence or equivalent.
• Advanced DBS check.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable:

• UEFA Pro Licence

Skills, knowledge & experience:

Essential:

• Experience of designing and implementing a set piece coaching plan with individuals across a First Team squad.
• Experience of supporting coaches in an elite environment.
• Passionate about long term player development.
• A track record of supporting players to make positive development in First Team environments.
• Experience of utilising technical and performance data to support strategic decision-making.
• Strong IT and presentation skills, including experience of working effectively with software packages (e.g. Hudl; Angles; StatsBomb).
• Ability to liaise empathetically and effectively with young players, parents, and other key stakeholders.

Attitude/ behaviours:

Essential:

• A professional “can do” attitude with strong organisational and administrative skills.
• A genuine team player who supports and provides feedback to the rest of the coaching staff.
• Empathy with young people and their challenges.

Personal qualities:

Essential:

• Hardworking and enthusiastic.
• Excellent communication skills. 
• Takes responsibility for ensuring a high quality of work.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm and is personally committed to achieving agreed objectives. 
• Is receptive to feedback about own behaviour, strengths, and areas for improvement.   
• Displays a high level of confidentiality.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Loyal and committed.

How to apply

Send a CV and cover letter to jobs@qpr.co.uk