Sporting Director

JOB TITLE: Sporting Director        

CLUB: Seattle Sounders FC

DEPARTMENT: Soccer Operations / Executive

REPORTS TO: Chief Soccer Officer & General Manager

TYPE: Full Time

FLSA: Salaried, Exempt

ROLE: People Manager

OUR CLUB

Seattle Sounders FC is a progressive high performing collection of people who strive to achieve the highest levels of our sport while making a transformative impact in our communities in the best soccer city in America. Our culture is focused on serving one of the most passionate sports fan bases in North America who are invested in the Sounders as much for our commitment to making a positive impact in our communities as they are for winning the 2019 MLS Cup and 2022 CONCACAF Champions League on home soil. We exist to create special moments like these, where we enrich lives and unify our fans and city through soccer.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Sporting Director will play a critical role in executing the long-term vision of Seattle Sounders FC, ensuring sustained success at all levels of the organization. This position will collaborate with club leadership to develop and oversee player recruitment, scouting, roster management, and player development, ensuring alignment with the club’s philosophy and competitive objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Player Recruitment & Roster Management

• Partner with the General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer to oversee scouting, recruitment, and acquisition of players for the First Team and Tacoma Defiance.
• Lead player identification and evaluation processes, ensuring alignment with the club’s competitive and financial strategy.
• Manage multi-year roster budget planning, salary cap compliance, and player contract structuring for both First Team and Reserve Team.
• Direct player trades, transfers, and contract negotiations, ensuring alignment with club objectives and MLS regulations.
• Oversee and manage Transfer room and other platforms to identify talent, streamline recruitment, and track player movements.

Scouting & Analytics

• Collaborate with the Director of Analytics to refine scouting models and player profiles, leveraging data-driven insights to enhance decision-making.
• Oversee Analytics and Video Analysis departments, ensuring effective use of technological platforms for player evaluation, opposition scouting, and tactical assessments.
• Conduct MLS Draft and scouting combine preparation, leading evaluation activities and talent identification.

Academy & Youth Development

• Work closely with Youth Development leadership and Academy Scouts to implement best practices for player identification, recruitment, and development.
• Maintain open communication with First Team, Reserve Team, and Academy coaching staffs to ensure a seamless player pathway.

Club & League Relations

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with key domestic and international stakeholders, including player agents, club representatives, and league officials.
• Represent Seattle Sounders FC at MLS meetings, USSF events, and international scouting missions, as directed by Ownership and General Manager.
• Stay updated on global best practices in player development, recruitment, and sports science, integrating innovative strategies into the club’s operations.

Leadership & Operational Oversight

• Manage and optimize the club’s scouting budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to maximize impact.
• Attend a minimum of two First Team and one Reserve Team training sessions per week to stay engaged with player development and coaching staff.
• Contribute to the club’s overall strategic vision, collaborating with executive leadership to shape the long-term success of Seattle Sounders FC.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the continuous growth and success of the club.

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Extensive experience in soccer operations, scouting, or technical leadership at the professional or elite collegiate level.
• Proven track record in player recruitment, scouting, and talent identification, preferably within MLS or international leagues.
• Strong knowledge of MLS roster rules, salary cap regulations, and player acquisition mechanisms (e.g., trades, DP signings, Homegrown Players).
• Experience managing scouting networks, analytics departments, and performance staff to optimize recruitment and player development.
• Excellent negotiation skills and experience handling player contracts, transfers, and trade negotiations.
• Ability to foster relationships with global football stakeholders, including agents, clubs, and league officials.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, capable of working effectively across departments.
• High-level strategic thinking and decision-making ability, with a data-driven approach to talent evaluation.
• Commitment to a club-wide philosophy of development, innovation, and competitive excellence.
• Coaching licenses (USSF A-License, UEFA Pro, or equivalent) or significant coaching experience at the professional level preferred.
• Experience integrating AI, performance analytics, and emerging technologies into scouting and recruitment processes preferred.
• Understanding of youth development systems and best practices for Academy player progression into the First Team.

WORK ENVIRONMENT  

• This in-person role works from our Headquarters & Training Facility in Renton, WA, home matches at Lumen Field and Starfire Sports Complex, and select away matches.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Must be available to travel as needed to execute responsibilities.
• Must reside within Washington state upon date of hire. 
• Must be able to facilitate own local travel. 
• Must be eligible to work in the US without sponsorship.

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS & PERKS

We offer competitive compensation and an engaging, supportive environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of our people.

The annual salary range for this position is $175,000 - $215,0000. Base pay at time of offer will take into account job-related knowledge, skills and experience required for the role, internal equity and market.

Our Total Rewards package for full-time team members includes: 

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: We offer 100% employer-sponsored premiums for you and your dependents.
• Generous and Flexible PTO: Our Paid Time Off plan is designed with your well-being in mind, offering unlimited paid vacation.
• Retirement Planning Support: 401(k) retirement plan matching, helping you secure your financial future with ease.
• Inclusive Parental Leave: Our gender-neutral parental leave program provides 12-16 weeks of paid leave, giving new parents the time and support they need during this important life stage.
• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy complimentary tickets to matches, making it easier for you to experience the excitement firsthand.
• Continuous Growth Opportunities: We invest in your learning and development through various programs and resources.
• Community Engagement: We provide a variety of volunteer opportunities that align with our social impact goals and RAVE Foundation initiatives, empowering you to make a meaningful difference in the Seattle community. 

Salary : $175,000 - $2,150,000