At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert medical care to elite rugby players and lead injury management.
- Company: Join New Zealand Rugby and work with the Chiefs Super Rugby team.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a connected whānau that values legacy and community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on player health and performance in a high-performance sports setting.
- Qualifications: Experienced medical doctor with a passion for sports medicine and teamwork.
Join one of New Zealand's leading high-performance rugby environments! New Zealand Rugby is seeking an experienced and passionate medical practitioner to join the Chiefs as Team Doctor for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season and beyond. This is a unique opportunity to work with one of New Zealand's premier professional rugby teams, providing expert medical care to elite athletes while helping deliver the highest standards of player health, welfare and performance.
The successful applicant will become part of New Zealand Rugby's nationally integrated rugby medicine network, working alongside experienced Super Rugby and National Team doctors within a collaborative clinical governance framework. This network is internationally recognised for its leadership in player welfare, concussion management, injury surveillance and evidence‑informed clinical practice, providing opportunities to contribute to ongoing research, shared learning and the continuous development of world‑class medical care.
Working within an experienced multidisciplinary performance team, you will provide clinical leadership across all aspects of player medical care. From pre‑season screening and injury prevention through to provision of immediate pitch side care, rehabilitation and return‑to‑play decision making, you will play an integral role in ensuring players receive outstanding, evidence‑informed medical care throughout the season.
You will join a high‑performing, deeply connected environment where Chiefs Mana is proudly upheld: a collective spirit built on legacy, identity, community and unwavering pride in the Chiefs jersey. This is more than a job — it is a place within a whānau.
About the role
- Providing medical leadership and comprehensive clinical care for the Chiefs playing squad throughout the Super Rugby season.
- Working closely with physiotherapists, strength and conditioning staff, coaches and performance specialists to optimise player health and availability.
- Leading the assessment and management of injury and illness, including concussion and return‑to‑play decision making.
- Delivering player and staff education across key medical and player welfare topics.
- Supporting NZ Rugby's injury surveillance programme, research initiatives and Clinical Governance Framework.
- Travelling with the team throughout the Super Rugby Pacific season, both within New Zealand and internationally.
About you
You will be an experienced medical doctor who thrives in a collaborative, fast‑paced high‑performance environment and enjoys working as part of an integrated multidisciplinary team. You will bring:
- Current registration and Annual Practicing Certificate with the Medical Council of New Zealand.
- Experience providing medical care within elite sport, preferably professional rugby or another high‑performance team environment.
- A postgraduate qualification in sports medicine or a related discipline (desirable).
- Current World Rugby Immediate Care in Rugby (ICIR) Level 2 or 3 qualification, or a willingness to complete this on appointment.
- Excellent clinical judgement, communication and organisational skills.
- A commitment to evidence-based practice, continuous learning and delivering player‑centred care.
- High levels of professionalism, integrity and collaboration, aligned with the values of New Zealand Rugby, Te Ara Rangatira (The Rugby Way) and the Chiefs — Kaitiakitanga, Whanaungatanga, Rangatiratanga.
About Us
At NZR we love what we do, we work hard and have fun! You'll be joining a team of awesome people who are passionate about the game and each other, and you'll be backed with support to thrive in your role. We know that life isn't all about work, so we are open to flexible working options.
Super Rugby Team Doctor in Exeter employer: Exeter Chiefs
Join New Zealand Rugby as a Team Doctor for the Chiefs and immerse yourself in a high-performance environment that prioritises player health and welfare. With a commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous learning, you'll collaborate with a multidisciplinary team while enjoying flexible working options and a supportive culture that values community and connection. This role not only offers the chance to provide expert medical care to elite athletes but also to contribute to groundbreaking research and player welfare initiatives within a proud and passionate whānau.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Super Rugby Team Doctor in Exeter
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Exeter Chiefs.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Exeter Chiefs.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Exeter Chiefs, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Super Rugby Team Doctor in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Exeter Chiefs.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Exeter Chiefs.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Exeter Chiefs. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Exeter Chiefs. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Exeter Chiefs
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Exeter Chiefs’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
