Pathway · Step up
Groundsperson to Head Groundsperson / Pitch Manager
How to move from Groundsperson to Head Groundsperson / Pitch Manager: what to learn, what to prove and what formal steps, if any, are needed.
Qualification check for Head Groundsperson / Pitch Manager
Strongly preferred
Most employers will expect a qualification for the new role, but evidence of experience also counts. Professional turf qualifications and years of experience are expected.
4 to 7 yearstypical timeline
3new skills to build
0qualifications to consider
+185%mid-point UK pay change, illustrative
The move at a glance
Groundsperson
Maintains pitches and training grounds.
Head Groundsperson / Pitch Manager
Leads pitch and turf management at a club or stadium.
Skills and knowledge to build
Experience and routes that help
Qualifications to consider
No additional qualification is typically required. Experience and a track record matter most.
What the new role asks of you
- Plan the maintenance and renovation of pitches
- Manage the grounds team and contractors
- Report on pitch quality to coaches and leagues
Practical steps
- Ask for a small piece of the new role's work before you apply, for example one of the tasks above.
- Close the top gap first: Leadership.
- Keep a record of two results that show you working at the next level.
- Talk to three people who do the job. Ask how they got in, and who they would recommend you speak to.