Hearts appoint Shelley Kerr, the former Scotland women’s manager
Former Scotland Women’s head coach Shelley Cole has been confirmed as technical development manager at Hearts of Midlothian.
The 55-year-old will work exclusively with the club’s male players and focus on the transition from academy and B-team level to the first team.
Cole, who was in charge of the women’s national team from 2017-20, will also assist new B-team coach Angus Bess.
“I would like to thank (sporting director) Graeme (Jones), the football department and the board for giving me the opportunity to take on such an important role at the club,” she said.
“Since my retirement as a player I have been fortunate to serve in a variety of leadership roles in both men’s and women’s football and I am delighted to be able to bring this knowledge and experience to the Heart of Midlothian.”
Cole has experience in men’s football while coaching at the University of Stirling.
After 15 months in charge of Arsenal’s women’s team, she spent three seasons in the Lowland League before taking over the Scotland side.
She led Scotland to the 2019 World Cup but left in December 2020 after failing to qualify for Euro 2021.
In May 2021, Cole was appointed technical lead for England Women’s ‘How We Play’ coaching strategy.
“Shelley’s wealth of experience and skills are ideally suited to this new role,” added Athletic Director Jones.
“She will have an overview of the talent pipeline for coaches and players, but fundamentally her job will be to give those who are on the journey a clearer path into the first team.
“As well as her coaching experience and UEFA professional license, what sets Shelley apart is her work with the English Football Association on high-performance environment principles and the implementation of key physical, tactical and technical strategies and objectives.”
