Gemma Donnelly

Head of Player Development & Talent Pathways | Women's & Girls High Performance Environments

Talent

BlackpoolMember since 3 June 2026

Player Development & PathwaysDesigned and aligned end-to-end player pathways (U8 → Senior)Produced international and professional playersIntegrated academy and first team progression modelsLeadership & CultureBuilt and led multidisciplinary teams (40+ staff)Created high-performance environments aligned to clear values and behavioursMentored players and staff to elite progression

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About

Leader in women's football with over 25 years' experience designing and delivering high-performance environments across academy, pathway and senior levels. Specialist in aligning player development systems, integrating multidisciplinary teams, and building clear, connected pathways that produce both elite athletes and high-performing people. Proven track record in developing international-level players, leading organisational growth, and creating environments where players and staff can consistently excel.

Experience

Consultant – Education & Player Care (U8–U17) at Blackpool FC (2023 – Present)

Coach Developer (Casual) at The Football Association (2024 – Present)

Head of Football (Interim) at Cardiff City Ladies (2023-09 – 2023-11)

Head of Female Academy Football & Lecturer (FE/HE) at Burnley College (2010 – 2013)

Head of Women's Football & First Team Manager (Tier 2 – FA Women's Championship) at Blackburn Rovers FC (2006 – 2023)

Led Blackburn Rovers Women to three consecutive FA Women's National League titles (2016–2019), securing promotion to the FA Women's Championship
Designed and implemented a club-wide strategic vision for Blackburn Rovers Women, aligning academy and first team through the 'Super League Ready, Championship Steady' model to support sustained growth and progression
Recognised for building high-performance environments that develop both players and staff, with a focus on progression, accountability and shared standards
Led multidisciplinary team integration across sports science, medical, performance analysis and player welfare, creating a holistic development environment to support player progression and performance
Oversaw full programme governance including recruitment, workforce planning, and budget management across Academy, RTC and ETC programmes, ensuring compliance, audit success and sustained funding through effective reporting to Board and key stakeholders
Led and developed a multidisciplinary workforce of 40+ staff and volunteers, establishing clear vision, development frameworks and performance standards aligned to individual and organisational growth
Secured and led a Tier 1 Girls' Academy licence (one of 12 nationally), designing and implementing a full player pathway that consistently produced players for national representation, first team progression and the wider football pyramid

Variety of roles including Sports Development Coach, Women's & Girls Development Officer plus Soccer Coach in US at Early Career