Celtic FC is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Brownlie as Head of Girls’ Academy, and he will officially take up the role on December 8th.

Paul is no stranger to the club, having previously served as Head of Girls’ Academy at Celtic for seven years from 2008 to 2015 before being recruited by the Scottish FA as High Performance Football Manager.

During his time at the Scottish FA, Paul oversaw key performance programmes at the National Performance Centre for Women’s Football, playing a vital role in developing the next generation of Scotland’s international players.

Since 2021, Paul has led Motherwell Women as both Head Coach and Head of Women and Girls’ Performance, guiding the team to their first-ever top-six finish in the Scottish Women’s Premier League during the 2024/25 season.

Paul’s return to Celtic comes at an exciting time for the club, with the recently opened Barrowfield Training Centre now providing a state-of-the-art facility and pathway for players from youth level right through to the women’s first team.

Paul Brownlie said: “I can't wait to return to Celtic and to work with the next generation of young players at such an exciting time for the women’s game.

'With the opening of the Barrowfield Training Centre, there’s a real sense of momentum throughout the Academy.'

"Now it’s about getting to work and ensuring that we do all we can to allow our girls to reach the highest level.”

Stewart McGuire, Celtic FC Women Operations Manager said: “Paul brings incredible experience and a proven track record in player development here in Scotland.

"We’re delighted to welcome him back to the club. With players like Chloe Craig and Maria McAneny making a huge impact in the first team, we look forward to seeing more Academy graduates follow in their footsteps under Paul’s guidance."

Elena Sadiku, Celtic FC Women’s Head Coach, also added: “It’s important for us at Celtic to have a strong connection between the Academy and the first team.

"With Paul leading the Girls’ Academy, I’m confident we’ll continue to strengthen that pathway and see even more players progress from Barrowfield to making their mark in the first-team.”

Paul Brownlie appointed Head of Girls’ Academy