Women's Senior Assistant Coach - Forwards in Pontyclun

Location: WRU National Centre of Excellence

Salary: Competitive

Contract: Full-time, Fixed-term Contract (24 months)

Closing Date: 19th May 2026

Assessment: Multi‑stage process with interviews scheduled for the week commencing 25th May.

Overview

Our ambition is to return Welsh Rugby to the pinnacle of international competition. We are committed to building a clear, aligned DNA within the women’s game, underpinned by innovative pathways that produce more and better players for professional and international environments. This role is central to developing a world‑class forwards identity for the Women’s Senior Team, establishing excellence in scrum, lineout and contact.

What you’ll do

• Lead the development and implementation of the forwards philosophy across scrum, lineout and contact.
• Design and deliver clear systems and technical frameworks for set‑piece and contact performance.
• Deliver outstanding on‑ and off‑field coaching to maximise player understanding, engagement and performance.
• Support squad selection, planning and campaign delivery aligned with the Welsh Rugby DNA.
• Contribute to a high‑performance environment that drives sustained success.
• Build strong relationships with clubs and pathway programmes to ensure alignment and player development.

What you’ll bring

• Deep technical expertise in forwards play including set‑piece and contact.
• Proven experience coaching in elite rugby environments.
• Strong track record of player and unit development.
• Ability to collaborate and influence across multidisciplinary teams.
• Level 3 Coaching Licence (or equivalent).
• A growth mindset and commitment to continuous professional development.

Key relationships

• Head Coach – Women’s Senior National Team
• Director of Rugby and Elite Performance
• National and Pathway Coaches
• Celtic Challenge / PWR Coaching teams
• Performance Support Teams

Key responsibilities, tasks and activities

• Develop a clear scrum, lineout and contact philosophy, including principles, systems and game solutions.
• Design technical and tactical programs for movement, lifting, jumping, maul build, and contact skills.
• Co‑create performance, development, and culture with players and coaching staff.
• Support squad selection and campaign planning aligned with the Welsh DNA.
• Provide coaching, selection, and development for the international pathway.
• Maintain high personal development to keep knowledge at the highest level.

Knowledge, skills and experience

• Level 3 Rugby coaching licence or recognised equivalent.
• Demonstrable forwards coaching experience in club and/or international rugby.
• Exceptional coaching delivery employing a variety of methods.
• Experience identifying and developing talent, especially young players.
• Experience contributing to a high‑performing, positive team culture.
• Understanding of detailed planning for performance across short, medium and long‑term objectives.
• Growth mindset and evidence of continuous professional development.
• Experience using data and measurement to inform coaching.
• Good links with club staff and stakeholders; ability to build relationships.
• Belief in long‑term developmental DNA for Welsh Rugby.
• Resilient and comfortable in a high‑profile role.
• Commitment to live in Wales and be present in all aspects of the role.
• Basic technology proficiency for coaching and analysis.

Desirable

• Sports related or business undergraduate degree.
• Elite playing experience.
• Connection to or knowledge of the Welsh rugby system.
• Welsh language speaker.

Core behaviours

• Collaborative Teamwork – work cooperatively with others to achieve objectives.
• Build Relationships – initiate and maintain strong networks with players, colleagues and stakeholders.
• Influential Communication – motivate and engage others, gaining support for ideas.
• Excellence and Quality – set and meet high standards, continually improving performance.
• Creating Solutions – research challenges, evaluate options and make decisions.
• Inspiring Others – coach others to improve capability and confidence.
• Performing under pressure – maintain performance under stress.

WRU requirements

• Proficient in IT skills, particularly Microsoft packages.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, building relationships with stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate in Welsh and a Valid UK Driver’s Licence is desirable.
• This role requires a basic/enhanced DBS check.

The perks

• Salary sacrifice pension (5% employee contribution, matched by WRU).
• Life assurance scheme.
• WRU Group ticket allocation (in line with policy).
• One additional paid day off (birthday leave).
• Employee assistance programme.
• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Free stadium parking and gym.
• Group store and tour discounts.
• Group partnership offers.
• Eye care voucher scheme.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.

Our values

The WRU Group are committed to developing a culture where all employees are equally valued and respected. Our vision and mission are underpinned by core values: Integrity, Excellence, Success, Courage, Family & Humour.

Inclusion at the WRU

We are committed to building diverse, high‑performing teams across Welsh Rugby, ensuring everyone can belong, be heard and respected.

Diversity monitoring

We collect anonymous data to monitor inclusivity of our selection processes. You may opt not to provide information if you prefer.