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- Tasks: Lead the athletic performance department and design innovative training programmes for elite rugby players.
- Company: Join Ulster Rugby, a dynamic team committed to excellence in sports performance.
- Benefits: Three-year fixed contract with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on athletes' performance and contribute to the future of rugby.
- Qualifications: Degree in sports science and 3 years' experience in athletic performance required.
- Other info: Equal opportunities employer welcoming diverse applicants.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The IRFU & Ulster Rugby are currently inviting applications for the post of Head of Athletic Performance. The post holder will manage and lead the athletic performance department in the design, implementation and ongoing evaluation of the Ulster Rugby athletic performance programme, as sanctioned by the IRFU and ensure the alignment between the pathway, academy, and senior department programmes. The post holder will also ensure alignment between provincial and national team programming for all national team players.
The successful candidate will have a recognised degree or higher national diploma in physical education, human movement or exercise and sports science, and a minimum of 3 years’ experience in an athletic performance (strength & conditioning) position within an elite/professional Rugby environment (candidates without rugby experience may be considered based on experience).
The post is being offered on a three-year fixed contract from the date of commencement. To apply, please download a detailed job description and person specification and complete the online application form. The closing date for completed application forms is no later than 10:00am on Thursday 5th March 2026.
Applicants are strongly advised to read the guidance notes at the start of the application form prior to completion. CVs or emails expressing an interest in the position without completing the online application form will be disregarded.
Ulster Rugby is an equal opportunities employer and as such welcomes applications from all persons regardless of race, creed, gender, disability, family status or sexual orientation.
If your role involves working with children and young people you may be subject to vetting through Access NI/Garda Vetting Bureau. Please note that we are committed to equal opportunities for all and will not preclude applicants with criminal convictions.
For more information please refer to the IRFU Vetting Policy.
Head of Athletic Performance in Belfast employer: Complementary Training
Contact Detail:
Complementary Training Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Athletic Performance in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the rugby world, attend events, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the club and its culture. Understand their athletic performance programme and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the team too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the Head of Athletic Performance position. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. We’ve made it super easy for you, so take advantage of it and get your application in before the deadline!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Athletic Performance in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send in a generic CV! We love it when candidates customise their applications to highlight relevant experience in athletic performance, especially in rugby. Show us why you're the perfect fit for this role!
Follow the Application Instructions: Make sure you complete the online application form as instructed. We won’t consider CVs or emails expressing interest without the proper form. It’s all about following the rules, so don’t skip this step!
Check Your Work: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a once-over. Typos and errors can be a turn-off, so let’s make sure everything is polished and professional. We’re excited to see your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Complementary Training
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in athletic performance, especially in rugby. Familiarise yourself with the IRFU and Ulster Rugby's current programmes and philosophies. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but are genuinely invested in their success.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles in detail, particularly your experience in strength and conditioning within elite rugby environments. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've successfully implemented performance programmes and how they aligned with team goals.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand the importance of alignment between the pathway, academy, and senior department programmes. Be ready to share your thoughts on how you would ensure this alignment and improve collaboration across different levels of the organisation.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the organisation. This could include inquiries about their long-term vision for athletic performance or how they measure success. It shows you're engaged and thinking critically about how you can contribute.
