Lead Coach — Development Phase

Working at the RFU means being part of the ‘bigger picture’ at England Rugby: to be rooted in our purpose, which is to enrich lives, introduce more people to rugby union & develop the sport for future generations. If our purpose resonates with you, and you recognise the value that sport can bring to people’s lives, we’d love to work with you.

An opportunity has arisen for a Lead Coach to join the Yorkshire Rugby Academy on a permanent contract.

Why Yorkshire Rugby Academy? We are unique in the PREM academy system. Unlike the other ten PREM Academies, we have no parent club — and that independence is our strength. Our purpose is to provide the whole game with quality players, and we have a proven track record of developing players ready to thrive in PREM rugby. For a coach, that means your success is measured purely on player development: producing young people and players ready for the highest level, wherever their pathway takes them.

Nature and scope:

Yorkshire Rugby Academy is looking for an outstanding Lead Coach to work within our Development Phase and shape the next generation of elite players. You will play a key role in the on‑field programme for our U18 & U17 provision, with the other coaches you will drive the game model, curriculum and individual development planning that underpins the whole pathway. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a genuine impact on a development programme: you will need to be able to work with and support a coaching group, lead player reviews and feedback sessions, and work directly with England age‑group coaches on the progression of our most promising players. You will work across an established network of state and independent partner schools and clubs throughout the county, including our ACE programme partners at Bishop Burton College and Wath Academy.

The Team:

This role will be supported by a full multi‑disciplinary team of strength & conditioning, medical and performance analysis staff. We are very aligned as a team in our vision of having Yorkshire Rugby Academy represented in every PREM club.

Accountabilities:

• Design, deliver and review rugby sessions across the Development Phase (U17 & U18 age groups), assisting on occasions with Foundation Phase (U15 & U16 age groups).
• Take a lead on delivery and team selection at appropriate points in the season.
• Work with and further develop the game model, curriculum and block planning process across the Development Phase.
• Design, implement and review Individual Development Plans and Annual Playing Programmes for all Development Phase players and EAPs, in collaboration with the multi‑disciplinary team and each player's club, school and England age‑group network.
• Lead the player review process — block intentions, season reviews, EAP case conferences and exit planning — with video analysis support (Hudl).
• As a full‑time member of staff help to manage and develop the contracted coaching staff as well as contributing to coach development across the Academy landscape.
• Build and maintain relationships across our partner schools and clubs and assist in identifying and recruiting the best young players in the region.
• Actively collaborate with colleagues to contribute to the development and delivery of the current strategic, business and operational plans.
• Act as an ambassador for, and promote the best interests of the RFU, including the promotion of our culture and core values – This Rose Means Everyone: Put The Team First, Shape The Future, Respect Each Other.
• Undertake other duties as may be required from time to time as are consistent with the responsibilities of the post and the needs of the organisation.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience:

The skills and attributes outlined in this description are not exhaustive and we welcome candidates who can bring different relevant experiences to the role.

Essential:

• England Rugby Advanced Coaching (Level 3) Award or equivalent.
• At least 3 years' experience coaching in age‑grade pathway environments, with a strong, current understanding of player development.
• Effective communication and relationship‑building skills across players, parents, schools, clubs and staff.
• Current RFU DBS (or willingness to obtain prior to appointment) and a full UK driving licence.
• Willingness to work the hours the season demands, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to work on several projects at once, prioritising and communicating priorities.
• Experience of leading and managing a team, setting high standards of performance with a focus on talent development.
• Proactive self‑starter with the perseverance and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Ability to work independently and with high levels of autonomy.
• Proven time management and prioritisation skills.
• Effective interpersonal, and relationship management skills.
• Strong collaboration, influencing and partner management skills with the ability to challenge constructively.
• Significant experience of player development.
• Proven stakeholder management skills with an ability to influence at all levels.
• Self‑aware; committed to continuous professional and personal development.
• Committed to embodying the ethos of our culture by using our three core values – Put The Team First, Shape The Future, Respect Each Other – to guide your day‑to‑day decisions, actions and interactions.
• Committed to actively contributing and building an inclusive culture in your role and day‑to‑day behaviours.

Desirable:

• A forward’s coaching specialism is desirable.
• England Rugby Performance Award (Level 4) or equivalent.

This role will require a DBS check.