Jones steps down as Blackburn Academy boss after 13 years
Written by
Training Ground Guru
May 5, 2025
Head of Academy Stuart Jones has left Blackburn Rovers after 13 years to ‘seek new opportunities.’
Jones joined Rovers in December 2011 as their Head of Education and Player Welfare and went on to become Head of Academy in 2017. In July 2024, his job title changed to Head of Academy, Youth Transition & Player Pathway, with Paul Gray promoted from Head of Academy Football Operations to Academy Manager.
During his time as Head of Academy, Blackburn achieved:
- average of 25% of first-team minutes taken by Academy graduates
- more than 700 consecutive games with an Academy graduate in a match-day squad
- average of three Academy graduates in the starting 11
- significant return on investment from Academy graduates, including an initial £18m for Adam Wharton when he was sold to Crystal Palace
- retention of Category One status
In a statement, Rovers said: “We would like to thank Stuart for his dedication and commitment to the club over the last 13 years and we wish him all the best for the future.
“During Stuart’s time at the club, he assisted in developing and delivering a pipeline of young talented players from our Category One Academy into the senior squad.”
Jones added: “After 13 brilliant years, I have now left Blackburn Rovers. As Head of Academy I was lucky enough to work with some fantastic people, past and present, who were fundamental to my successful tenure.
“After a short break, I look forward to seeking new and exciting opportunities, that will hopefully shape the next stage in my career pathway.”
Rovers have not yet clarified what their Academy leadership structure will be for next season. Adam Owen is the club’s Head of Technical Development and former player Rudy Gestede is Head of Football Operations.
Blackburn placed 21st in the latest edition of TGG’s Academy Productivity Rankings.
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