Dr. David Stevenson is a football talent identification leader and sport management academic, combining research expertise with practical recruitment delivery inside professional club environments. He holds a PhD in Sports Studies from the University of Stirling, a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Strathclyde, and has further strengthened his football-industry leadership knowledge through the UEFA Certificate in Football Management at the University of Lausanne (UNIL).
Professionally, David works at the intersection of academy recruitment, scouting, and emerging talent strategy. He recently served as Head of Academy Recruitment and Scouting at Queen’s Park Football Club, with responsibility for building and coordinating recruitment processes that support long-term player development. His work in emerging talent recruitment reflects a focus on identifying players early, tracking progression, and aligning scouting decisions with the club’s development model and pathway needs.
Alongside his club role, David is a Lecturer in Sport Management at the University of Stirling, bringing an applied perspective to teaching and supporting the next generation of practitioners. This dual identity—academic and practitioner—gives him the ability to connect research-based thinking with real-world decision-making in football environments.
Across his work, David is recognised for a structured approach to recruitment and development, linking scouting insight to performance outcomes and academy planning. His expertise supports clubs in making smarter identification decisions and building sustainable pathways for young players.