We’re delighted to announce the appointment of George Cairns to the position of Academy Director.

A vastly experienced youth development professional, George served as Head of Youth and Academy Director for Hamilton Academical for nearly two decades, before moving on in 2024.

Under his tenure, Accies’ youth system grew from strength to strength, producing several famed alumni including James McCarthy, James McArthur, Lewis Ferguson, Michael Devlin, Eamonn Brophy and Greg Docherty. More recently, Accies featured twice in the UEFA Youth League, alongside some of Europe’s top talents and sides.

In his time in South Lanarkshire, George worked alongside our own Brian Rice and Brian Potter, and more recently oversaw Lewis Smith and Andy Winter’s graduation into first-team football. He arrives at the Home of the Set Fare Arena with the remit of pushing forward our own Academy, which has grown in strength since it’s reintroduction in late 2021.

Speaking after joining the club, George said, “I’m delighted to be joining Livingston as Academy Director. Following many positive discussions with the board I believe I can push the academy forward to new heights by developing an efficient cycle of talent through our ranks and into the First Team, to add to the momentum and feel-good factor currently surrounding the club.

“I’m fresh and ready for the challenge after taking a season long break from football following a two-decade stint at Hamilton Academical. During that time, I progressed from part–time coach into the Academy Director role, where I oversaw the professional development and wellbeing of hundreds of young aspiring players, as well as staff, year on year. In that time, the academy graduates we produced have registered over 1000 professional appearances, as well as 100+ international caps, with the likes of James McCarthy and James McArthur winning the FA Cup, and more recently, Lewis Ferguson winning the Coppa Italia with the Bologna side which he captains.

“They thrived in an environment which valued high standards consisting of hard work, humility and respect. The culture we created was tested on the highest possible stage as we made two ventures into the UEFA Youth League, where we went toe–to–toe with the likes of Basel, FC Midtjylland and Molde. That environment and culture is what I’ll be looking to replicate at Livingston, and I very much look forward to what the future holds.”

Men’s first-team manager David Martindale said, “When the opportunity to bring George in came along, I spoke to the board and asked if it was something we could do.

“They were very supportive and it’s a huge step forward for our academy.

“I’m really looking forward to working with George and offering my support and availability whenever needed, as I know he will be fantastic for the academy.

“It’s potentially the most important signing this summer – that’s how important George will be for the academy, and subsequently for the club.”

Welcome to Livingston, George!

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