John Dillon

Conduct comprehensive player assessments through a combination of nationwide live match scouting and detailed video analysis. Collaborate with senior management to identify and recommend player targets to strengthen squad performance. Develop and maintain an extensive scouting network to identify, assess, and secure player transfer opportunities.

Lead Recruitment Analyst - Blackpool FC

(2023-07)

• Conduct comprehensive player assessments through a combination of nationwide live match scouting and detailed video analysis.
• Collaborate with senior management to identify and recommend player targets to strengthen squad performance.
• Develop and maintain an extensive scouting network to identify, assess, and secure player transfer opportunities.
• Build strong relationships with coaches, analysts, and agents through clear communication to support player identification and recruitment strategies.
• Utilise advanced performance analysis platforms including Wyscout, Skill Corner and Impect to deliver detailed scouting and performance reports.
• Monitor and track the progress and performance of recruited players, providing ongoing evaluation and post-signing analysis.

Head of Player Analysis - Crewe Alexandra

(2017-05 - 2023-06)

• Lead and coordinate the club's scouting department, providing clear direction on fixture coverage, reporting standards, positional priorities and expense management.
• Work closely with the First Team Staff to identify, assess, and recommend recruitment targets aligned with tactical objectives and squad needs.
• Maintain a proactive network across football markets to spot emerging talent and drive competitive squad development.
• Drive team performance by combining strong leadership and communication skills with a focus on collaboration, accountability, and delivering high-quality scouting outcomes.
• Continue to fulfil First Team Analyst responsibilities, delivering detailed tactical pre/post match video presentations on opposition through the use of Hudl Studio.

First Team Analyst - Crewe Alexandra

(2016-09 - 2017-05)

• Deliver comprehensive opposition analysis, interpreting tactical structures, key trends, and individual performance data, and present clear, actionable insights to First Team Management and players to inform match preparation.
• Conduct detailed individual player performance analysis, identifying strengths, development areas, and tactical improvements.
• Utilise SportsCode Gamebreaker to code matches, build structured performance databases, and provide accessible analytical resources across all club departments.
• Experienced in industry-leading platforms including Wyscout, Hudl, SportsCode Gamebreaker, InStat, and TransferRoom to support opposition analysis and identify strategically aligned recruitment targets.

Youth Academy Coach - Crewe Alexandra

(2014-01 - 2016-09)

• U13 Coach, developed and led sessions to stretch and challenge players to enhance their skills and play with the core values of Crewe Alexandra.
• Held a position of responsibility with a duty of care for young players, showed professionalism at all times and communicated well to players, parents and staff at all levels.
• Held quarterly parents evenings to update on performance and development opportunities.
• Set daily, weekly targets and evaluations for players and used the PMA system to record.
• Supported with the coordination of overseas trips for the academy.

Professional Footballer - Dundalk FC

(2013-01 - 2013-10)

• 1 year full time contract

Professional Footballer - Sligo Rovers FC

(2010-01 - 2012-12)

• 3 years full time contract

Apprentice Service Technician - Virgin Media

(2008-09 - 2009-12)

• Held a customer facing position that required technical knowledge, excellent customer service skills and time management to achieve centrally set targets.

Professional Footballer - Crewe Alexandra

(2004-05 - 2007)

• 1 Year Professional contract
• 2 Year Scholarship

BTEC Level 3 - Sports Performance and Excellence

NVQ Level 3 - Telecommunications