Head of Social Media

Theinsideout; Stretford; On-site; GBP 70,000 - GBP 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier football club is seeking a Head of Social Media to lead its global social media strategy. This key leadership role will manage and mentor a high-performing team to enhance fan engagement and brand equity. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in digital strategy within sports or entertainment, with a deep understanding of platform dynamics and strong editorial judgment. Passion for football and a global outlook are essential. The role is based at the club's iconic locations, providing a vibrant work environment.

Benefits

Annual incentive scheme

Wellness support and mental health resources

Exclusive discounts via United Rewards

Gym facilities and regular social events

Enhanced family leave benefits

Career development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in social media for major brands, ideally in sport or entertainment.
• Proven success in delivering audience growth and engagement.
• Deep understanding of platform algorithms and emerging trends.
• Strong editorial judgment and knowledge of journalistic ethics.
• Skilled in managing creative teams and projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a global social media strategy.
• Oversee high-quality content creation and publishing.
• Manage and mentor the social media team.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders on content plans.
• Analyze performance metrics and optimize strategy.

Skills

Social media strategy

Digital marketing

Team leadership

Community engagement

Data analysis

Content creation

Crisis communication

Tools

Analytics tools

Social media platforms

Job description

Head of Social Media

Location: Old Trafford Stadium/Carrington Training Ground

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.The Purpose

Head ofSocial Mediawillbe responsible forleading Manchester United’s global social media strategy across all Manchester United socialplatforms. This is a key leadership role, responsible for strengthening fan engagement, enhancing brand equity, supporting commercial goals, and protecting the club’s online reputation.

We are seeking an experienced digital strategist with a deep understanding of social mediaplatforms,audiencesand contentdynamics, usingstrongeditorial and commercialexperience, anda track recordof leading high-performing teams in fast-paced environments. A passion for football and a global outlookisessential.

The Role

• Lead Social Media Strategy: Develop and execute a global, platform by platform specific strategy aligned with the club’s communications, brand, marketing, and commercial goals.
• Content Oversight: Oversee creation and publishing of high-quality, engaging content across all major platforms, ensuring editorial accuracy and brand alignment.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a high-performing social media team, fostering collaboration and creativity.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Partner with internal stakeholders to support an integrated content plan, club-wide initiatives and campaigns.
• Performance measurement & Analysis: Constantly monitor channel and content performance, driving change to adapt to an ever developing environment, liaising with networks for HBR/QBRs etc.
• Community Engagement: Grow and engage our global fanbase through community management and influencer outreach.
• Creators Academy: Lead the club’s creator network, hosting events and nurturing digital storytelling.
• Performance & Insights: Monitor performance metrics, report on KPIs, and optimise content and strategy using data-driven insights.
• Reputation & Risk Management: Oversee social monitoring and response protocols, supporting crisis communication and brand protection.
• Innovation & Trends: Stay ahead of digital trends, testing new formats and technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
• Editorial Standards: Ensure all output meets journalistic and ethical standards, maintaining credibility and trust.
• Budget Management: Oversee social media budget, ensuring effective resource allocation and ROI
• Network relationships: Constantly communication with the social networks and exploring new opportunities.

The Person

• Extensive experience leading social media for a major brand, preferably in sport or entertainment.
• Proven success delivering audience growth, engagement, and commercial impact through digital strategy.
• Deep knowledge of platform algorithms, content best practices, and emerging trends.
• Strong editorial judgment and familiarity with journalistic ethics and verification.
• Skilled in managing creative teams and cross-functional projects.
• Proficient in analytics tools and data interpretation for performance optimisation.
• Excellent written, verbal, and visual communication skills.
• Calm under pressure with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A genuine passion for football and strong awareness of the global football ecosystem.

What We Offer

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and & nutritionists through Aviva
• Digicare+ Workplace
• Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You

At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Tuesday 3rd February 2025

Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.

If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.

It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.