# Head CoachOrganisation:: Southend Swimming ClubContract Type:: Self-EmployedQualifications:: Coaching Swimming: Senior Swimming Coach Certificate or Level 3 AwardWorking Hours:: Full timeLocation:: Southend on SeaSalary:: Equivalent of up to £45,000 pa, dependent on experience and qualifications.Closing Date:: 6th November 2026 23:59ApplySouthend Swimming Club in Essex is seeking an ambitious, athlete-centred Head Coach to lead the next phase of development for the newly formed club.The recent merger of Southend's two established swimming clubs has created a unique opportunity to build and shape one of Essex's most exciting community swimming programmes. With approximately 275 members and significant capacity for future growth, the Club is committed to providing a comprehensive pathway from Learn to Swim through to competitive age-group, performance and Masters swimming.The Club trains at the excellent 8-lane 25m Southend Leisure Centre at Garon Park alongside Belfairs 25m pool in Leigh-on-Sea, with extensive access to both morning and evening water space. Supported by an experienced coaching team, committed volunteers and an engaged Committee, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the culture, direction and long-term vision of the Club.We are looking for a passionate and experienced coach who can create a positive, inclusive and aspirational environment where swimmers, coaches and volunteers can achieve their full potential.**The Role**Working closely with the Club Committee and coaching team, the Head Coach will provide strategic and operational leadership across all aspects of the swimming programme.The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing a clear long-term vision for swimmer development, coaching excellence and programme growth, while ensuring that every swimmer receives high-quality coaching appropriate to their age, ability and aspirations.This is a hands-on coaching and leadership role that combines poolside delivery with programme management, coach mentoring, competition planning and stakeholder engagement.**Key Responsibilities:****Programme Leadership:*** Develop and implement a clear swimming programme aligned with long-term athlete development principles.* Design and oversee squad structures, progression criteria and annual training plans across all sections of the Club.* Create a transparent and sustainable pathway from Learn to Swim through Development, Performance and Masters swimming.* Monitor programme effectiveness and make evidence-based adjustments to support swimmer progression.* Lead the implementation of a positive, athlete-centred coaching philosophy throughout the Club.* Identify opportunities to support membership growth and the Club's long-term sustainability.**Coaching Delivery:*** Deliver high-quality coaching sessions across multiple squads and abilities.* Ensure training programmes are appropriate to age, stage and ability.* Design and oversee land-training and physical development programmes across relevant squads.* Support swimmers in achieving their individual goals at County, Regional and National levels.* Promote athlete wellbeing, enjoyment, retention and long-term participation in the sport.**Leadership and Coaching Team Development:*** Lead, mentor and support the Club's coaching team and poolside assistants.* Foster a collaborative coaching culture focused on continuous development and shared learning.* Conduct regular coach observations, feedback and development discussions.* Support coach recruitment, induction and succession planning as required.* Encourage the development of future coaches from within the Club.**Competition Planning and Performance Management:*** Plan and coordinate the Club's competition calendar.* Lead team selection processes and competition attendance arrangements.* Provide support and leadership at key competitions.* Attendance at County, Regional and National Championship events as required.* Monitor swimmer performance data and progression trends to inform programme development.**Governance and Club Development:*** Work closely with the Committee to support the Club's strategic objectives.* Provide regular updates and reports on programme performance, swimmer progression and coaching activities.* Ensure coaching activities operate in accordance with Swim England policies, safeguarding requirements and good practice.* Contribute to membership growth, swimmer retention and long-term sustainability.* Support the development of a positive club culture that reflects the Club's values and ambitions.**Stakeholder Engagement:*** Build positive relationships with swimmers, parents, coaches, volunteers, officials and external partners.* Communicate clearly and professionally with members and stakeholders.* Act as an ambassador for Southend Swimming Club within the local swimming community.* Support initiatives that strengthen links with Learn to Swim providers, local schools and community organisations.**What Southend Swimming Club Can Offer:**This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a newly formed and ambitious club with the backing of a supportive Committee, strong volunteer network and dedicated coaching team.The successful candidate will benefit from:* The opportunity to lead and influence the development of a newly merged club.* Significant pool time across two facilities, including morning and evening access.* A well-established membership base of approximately 275 swimmers with substantial growth potential.* The autonomy to shape squad structures, programme delivery and long-term strategy.* Support from an engaged and forward-thinking Committee.* Opportunities to develop and mentor an experienced coaching team.* A positive and collaborative club culture committed to continuous improvement.* The chance to leave a lasting legacy within one of Essex's most ambitious community swimming clubs.* Support for continued professional development where appropriate.* Competitive remuneration reflecting qualifications, experience and responsibilities**About You:**We are looking for someone who is:* Passionate about swimmer development and athlete wellbeing.* An inspirational coach with strong leadership qualities.* An effective communicator who can engage confidently with swimmers, parents, volunteers and coaches.* Organised, professional and proactive.* Committed to creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment.* Experienced in developing competitive swimmers through development, age-group and performance pathways.* Able to balance performance ambitions with participation, enjoyment and retention.* Enthusiastic about helping shape the future of a growing club.**Essential Qualifications and Experience:*** Swim England Senior Coach Certificate / ASA Level 3 Coaching Award (or equivalent).* Current safeguarding qualification.* Experience coaching and developing competitive swimmers across development and performance pathways.* Proven experience of mentoring and supporting coaches and poolside assistants.* Strong understanding of long-term athlete development.* Experience planning and managing competitive programmes and competition schedules.* Excellent communication and leadership skills.**Desirable:*** Experience leading a programme within a growing, developing or merged club environment.* Strength and Conditioning qualification or relevant experience.* Experience supporting swimmers to Regional and National qualifying standards.* Experience of programme planning and performance analysis.## How to applyApplicants should submit:* A current CV* A short covering letter outlining their suitability and coaching philosophy* Details of relevant Swim England coaching qualifications and experienceApplicants must have the \"right to work\" in the UK. Candidates not holding this will not be considered and should not apply.Shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview and practical coaching assessment.If you have any questions please contact: SouthendSwimmingClub@outlook.comApply #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head Coach in Southend-on-Sea
