Joe joined the club on 27th September 2022 and made his debut on the same day in a midweek draw at Gainsborough.

The midfielder has been at Barnsley for a decade having come through their academy before making his senior debut in an Emirates FA Cup tie at Oakwell against Barrow during the 2021/22 season.

Ackroyd spent a spell out in Czech Republic on loan for MFK Vyškov at the back end of the 2021/22 campaign making 13 appearances and scoring one goal in the Czech National Football League.

On 16th December 2022 it was confirmed that Barnsley had recalled Joe from his loan after making 13 appearances and scoring four goals from midfield. Ackroyd went on to feature on the bench for Barnsley League One win over Burton Albion the following day.

On 9th July 2024 it was announced that Joe had returned to the club for a second spell on a one year contract.

Of his return to Nethermoor Ackroyd said: “I have always felt wanted at Guiseley and part of something and my family have felt at home there.”

On 28th February 2025 it was announced that Joe had joined Warrington Town on loan for a month after making 33 Lions appearances.

On 17th June 2025 it was confirmed that Joe had left the club and signed for Bradford (Park Avenue). Joe Made 40 appearances for the Lions during the 2024/25 season and scored two goals.