Head of Safeguarding

Organisation: Stadium MK
Salary: £35,000
Location: Milton Keynes
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 5 September 2025
Job Description: Are you an experienced safeguarding professional with the expertise, authority, and passion to lead best practice across a diverse and high-profile sports organisation?

Milton Keynes Dons is seeking a dedicated and proactive Head of Safeguarding to take strategic and operational responsibility for safeguarding across our Academy, Community Trust, Men’s First Team, Women’s First Team, and wider business operations ensuring safe, inclusive, and positive environments for children, young people, and adults at risk.

About Us: Protecting People, Embedding Trust
At Milton Keynes Dons, safeguarding isn’t just a requirement, it’s a core part of our culture. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported, whether on the pitch, in the community, or behind the scenes.

The Head of Safeguarding will be central to delivering that mission, leading strategy, driving continuous improvement, and championing a safeguarding-first mindset across every department and activity.

About the Role
This is a senior leadership role with organisation-wide influence. You’ll lead on the development, implementation, and review of safeguarding policies, training, and risk management plans, working closely with our Senior Safeguarding Manager and Football Operations Director.

You’ll ensure compliance with legislation and best practice, manage safeguarding casework, and act as a trusted point of contact for staff, participants, and external agencies. You’ll represent the Club in safeguarding forums and partnerships, and oversee the recruitment, development, and supervision of safeguarding officers across the business.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead strategic and operational safeguarding across all departments and activities.
• Develop, implement, and review safeguarding policies, risk registers, and training strategies.
• Manage safeguarding casework, including referrals, investigations, and audits.
• Oversee safer recruitment practices and compliance with safeguarding legislation.
• Deliver safeguarding training for staff, volunteers, players, parents, and stakeholders.
• Act as the central safeguarding contact, providing guidance, support, and escalation where needed.
• Represent MK Dons at external safeguarding meetings with statutory agencies and football authorities.
• Supervise and develop Designated Safeguarding Officers across the organisation.

What We’re Looking For
We are looking for a safeguarding leader with extensive knowledge, strong decision-making skills, and the ability to influence and inspire others. You’ll combine strategic thinking with operational excellence and have a proven record of embedding safeguarding into organisational culture.

Essential:
• Safeguarding Level 3 and FA safeguarding qualification (or equivalent).
• In-depth safeguarding knowledge, including relevant legislation and guidance.
• Significant experience embedding safeguarding across multiple departments.
• Proven track record in case management and leading safeguarding investigations.
• Understanding of safer recruitment and its role in abuse prevention.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and safeguarding case management systems.

Desirable:
• Safeguarding Level 4 or FA Safeguarding and Welfare qualifications.
• Degree in a relevant discipline.
• Safeguarding Tutor/Training qualification.
• Mental Health First Aid certification.
• Experience within professional football, education, or community sport sectors.

What We Offer
This is a high-impact leadership position within a progressive football organisation committed to excellence both on and off the pitch. You’ll join a collaborative team environment with the opportunity to shape safeguarding strategy, influence culture, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all those we work with.
How to apply: Ready to lead safeguarding at Milton Keynes Dons? Apply now via our website (https://www.stadiummk.com/careers) with your CV and a cover letter outlining your safeguarding expertise and why you’re the perfect fit for MK Dons.