Women's Senior Assistant Coach - Forwards

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.