ACADEMY NEWS: Derby County Announce Jamie Smith as Academy Manager

Derby County is delighted to announce the appointment of Jamie Smith as the club’s new Academy Manager.

Smith stepped into the position on an interim basis in December 2025, following Matt Hale’s departure and has shown an outstanding ability to drive the development of our youth footballers.

Having previously held the role of Assistant Academy Manager and Head of Academy Recruitment during an association with the Rams that stretches back over 12 years, Smith is aligned to the club’s core values of nurturing its own talent and creating a clear pathway from the Academy into the first team.

He has maintained a professional and dedicated approach since taking over from Hale, taking a firm lead on all operational matters, including the delivery of the Academy Performance Plan, with the support of the Academy Leadership team.

Derby County’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Pearce, said: “We are thrilled to announce Jamie’s appointment as our new Academy manager.

“He has stepped seamlessly into the position on an interim basis, building on the foundations laid by Matt as the club looks to improve its system of youth development as part of our Category One Academy status.

“Jamie has always demonstrated a conscientious and diligent approach throughout his time at the club - and this has been maintained during this interim period. We have every faith that this will continue, going forward.

“This is an important role and Jamie’s willingness to embrace the challenge and drive standards is exactly what we need as we seek to develop our next generation.”

New Academy Manager, Smith, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for my family and me.

“It’s an honour to be given the opportunity to lead Derby County’s Academy on a permanent basis.

“Having spent 12 years at the club, I’ve developed a deep understanding of our processes, our people and the programme we deliver.

“I recognise the responsibility of setting clear expectations that allow us to strengthen our elite environment and evolve our High Performance Programme.

“So, I'm looking forward to working further with our Head Coach to ensure the alignment between the Academy and Men’s First Team.

“I am equally excited to continue working with our talented staff, ensuring they are supported and up-skilled to deliver a life-enriching programme to all of the young people on their individual journeys within our Academy.

The club would also like to pay tribute to Hale for his diligence during the handover period.

Chief Executive Officer, Pearce, said: “Matt has offered support and guidance to Jamie throughout this whole process.

“We are hugely grateful for his assistance and also for the work he has undertaken during his time at Pride Park.

“We wish him well in his future endeavours.”