Club Reshapes Scouting with Modern, Data-Led Talent Strategy.
CHALLENGE
The club’s objective was to reimagine their scouting department with a strong emphasis on emerging talent, data literacy and video-based analysis. The recruitment brief focused on building a team of scouts fluent in modern tools and methodologies, moving away from more traditional approaches.
“We wanted to shift towards a new generation of scouting – one that understands data, makes use of video, and is grounded in evidence as well as instinct.” – Hiring Manager, AS Saint-Étienne
The biggest challenges were the geographical scope of the roles – covering both French and pan-European territories – and the highly specific skill sets required. The club lacked the internal manpower to run multiple concurrent searches at this scale and pace. There was also a desire to evolve from traditional scouting practices that are focused around personal networks and live assessments.
SOLUTION
Executives in Sport Group were introduced to AS Saint-Étienne at a recent networking event and were quickly engaged to lead the search. With experience delivering multiple scouting appointments simultaneously, EISG mobilised immediately.
EISG advertised the roles publicly while conducting a deep, targeted search across elite clubs in Europe. Special attention was paid to organisations with strong reputations for innovation in data and player development.
“We built a map of talent working in clubs where video and data are central to their scouting. The emphasis was always on future-focused profiles who could articulate what scouting should look like in five years.” – Harry Trussler, Consultant, Executives in Sport Group
Weekly updates, candidate tracking and detailed shortlist documents were shared throughout. Across the four roles, over 180 individuals were approached, 80 screened, and 26 shortlisted.
OUTCOME
All four roles were filled within 9 weeks. Each selected candidate brought a strong understanding of modern scouting tools, platforms and frameworks. They demonstrated alignment with AS Saint-Étienne’s desire to build a proactive and evidence-led recruitment model.
“The successful candidates clearly understood where football scouting is heading. Their ability to blend analytics with traditional player evaluation was exactly what we were looking for.” – Hiring Manager, AS Saint-Étienne
The appointments have laid a foundation for the club’s future scouting success, aligning closely with strategic objectives across both Academy and First Team.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Looking to strengthen your scouting team? Harry Trussler specialises in Performance Roles and has worked with leading organisations across football, rugby, athletics and cricket. Whether you’re hiring for a single key position or managing multiple appointments, EISG can support every step of the search.
📩 Reach out to Harry ht@eisg.com
🌐 For more information about Executives in Sport Group, visit www.eisg.com