At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate and oversee the delivery of the Inter Service Rugby Competition across multiple events.
- Company: Join the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force Rugby Unions in a dynamic role.
- Benefits: Competitive consultancy fee, flexible home-based work, and opportunities for performance-related bonuses.
- Other info: Engage with military sports and collaborate with diverse stakeholders across the UK.
- Why this job: Lead an iconic sporting event and enhance the experience for thousands of spectators.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and experience in managing complex projects or events.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Inter Service Rugby Competition (ISRC) is the flagship annual competition between the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, bringing together the best of Service Rugby across the Senior Men's, Senior Women's, U23 and Masters' (Over 35s) events. Played at leading venues and supported by thousands of spectators, commercial partners and military audiences, the ISRC has become one of the UK's most distinctive amateur sporting events. Following a period of significant development, the competition is now entering its next phase. We are seeking an experienced contractor to coordinate and oversee its successful delivery and continued improvement on behalf of the three Service Rugby Unions.
The Opportunity
Working to outcomes agreed by the Inter Service Steering Group (ISSG), the successful contractor will coordinate the planning and delivery of each phase of the Inter Service Rugby Competition. This is a role for a strong organiser and collaborator: someone able to maintain momentum across multiple workstreams, bring together a wide range of stakeholders, and help deliver high-quality fixtures in a consistent and professional way.
The engagement will include:
- Leading the planning and coordination of all four elements of the ISRC competition, maintaining an effective annual planning rhythm with the ISSG and individual match committees;
- Overseeing match-day readiness and delivery, including venues, ticketing, hosting, production and wider match facilities;
- Working with the single Service Rugby Unions, volunteers, venues, suppliers, broadcasters and marketing partners to ensure aligned and effective delivery;
- Providing delivery reporting, budget oversight, risk management and post-season review, including updates on progress, issues and milestones;
- Supporting the continued improvement of the competition, including attendances, partnerships and spectator experience.
The role follows the successful establishment of a modern competition operating model and now focuses on delivering and improving an established competition. The workload is variable, with each quarter requiring a different focus and type of work, with the greatest commitment required during the period of February to the delivery of the main events in May.
Managing complex projects, programmes or events.
Working with multiple stakeholders and maintaining delivery across competing priorities. Strong organisational, planning and communication skills. Budget monitoring and reporting. Confident use of Microsoft 365 and associated software. Sporting event or competition delivery.
Highly desirable experience
Military sport or volunteer-led sporting organisations. Commercial partnerships, sponsorship, marketing or communications.
Contract for services for a period of 36 months, subject to periodic review and either party’s right to terminate in accordance with the contract terms. Primarily home-based. Attendance at meetings, competitions and events at locations including Portsmouth, Aldershot, Twickenham, Gloucester and Northampton will be required, with some events taking place in the evening or at weekends. A fixed annual consultancy fee of £50,000 is available for this engagement, payable against monthly invoices. This figure represents the total amount payable by the contracting organisations and is inclusive of any VAT that may be chargeable by the contractor. Applicants should ensure that their proposed fee structure accommodates any applicable VAT and taxation requirements as no additional payments will be made beyond the stated fee. Additional performance related fees may be payable where agreed service outcomes and performance measures are achieved. The applicable measures and any associated fees will be agreed between the parties in advance of each contract year.
Terms of Reference
Access the Terms of Reference for further details - Inter Service Manager Terms of Reference.
Selection
Applications will be reviewed by the single Service senior representatives. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a proposal review in London on 15 July 2026, with the contract to be awarded before the end of July 2026. To apply, please submit a proposal and letter of application to kfowke@britisharmysport.com and ruth.stanbridge100@mod.gov.uk by 3 July 2026.
Inter Service Rugby Competition Manager in Portsmouth employer: Navyrugbyunion
As the Inter Service Rugby Competition Manager, you will be part of a dynamic and collaborative environment that values teamwork and excellence in sports management. With a focus on delivering high-quality events across prestigious venues, this role offers unique opportunities for professional growth and networking within military and sporting communities. Enjoy the flexibility of primarily home-based work while engaging with passionate stakeholders to enhance one of the UK's most distinctive amateur sporting events.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Inter Service Rugby Competition Manager in Portsmouth
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We think you need these skills to ace Inter Service Rugby Competition Manager in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience in Sports Management:When you're applying for a freelance role in sports-recreation management, it's crucial to showcase any relevant experience you have managing teams, organising events, or working within recreational facilities. Make sure to detail your specific achievements in these areas, as this will set you apart from other candidates who might have broader experience.
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Be Clear About Your Availability and Rates:One of the key aspects of freelance work is establishing a good understanding of your availability and rates. Be upfront about your typical hourly or project rates in your application, and let them know when you're ready to start. This transparency can make a big difference in the selection process.
Tailor Your Application to Navyrugbyunion:Make sure to research Navyrugbyunion thoroughly and tailor your application to resonate with their specific needs and values. Reference their past projects, mission, and aims in your cover letter to demonstrate that you're not just any sports-recreation manager – you’re the right fit for them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Navyrugbyunion
✨Show Off Your Event Management Skills
In sports-recreation management, showcasing your experience in organising events or managing teams is crucial. Bring along a portfolio of past events you've worked on or list some successful projects to demonstrate your capability.
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As a freelancer, this is your chance to sell not just your skills, but your unique approach to sports-recreation management. Be prepared to discuss how your background can bring value to Navyrugbyunion and make them see why they need you in their corner.
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