At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Brython Thunder's performance programme and develop elite players for competitive success.
- Company: Join the Welsh Rugby Union and be part of a transformative women's performance pathway.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and additional perks like birthday leave and gym access.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and strong community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in women's rugby and shape the future of the sport in Wales.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Rugby coaching licence and proven elite coaching experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The role
As part of our ambition to return Welsh Rugby to the top of the international game, player welfare and clinical excellence sit at the heart of everything we do.
We are committed to building a women's performance pathway that supports every athlete to develop, stay available, and perform — and that starts with outstanding technical and tactical coaching at every level of the programme.
The Celtic Challenge is a critical part of our women's performance pathway, and this role is central to it.
As Brython Thunder Head Coach, lead the team’s performance programme, driving high‑performing standards, developing elite players, and delivering competitive success on and off the field.
You will shape Brython Thunder’s playing philosophy, culture, and assist in effectively preparing players for the national team.
You will also assist in the alignment of internal teams and external clubs and pathways through close and influential relationships.
- What you’ll do
- Lead the development of a clear and compelling vision and ‘what it takes to win’ model for Brython Thunder in alignment with the wider Welsh rugby DNA.
- Implement this vision in a clear and comprehensive game model and playing style for the team which aligns to Welsh Rugby DNA.
- Deliver the game model through a season and weekly coaching, training, and competition programme, including the development of excellent and detailed operational plans for the Celtic Challenge season in collaboration with the Women’s Pathway Operations Manager and the team’s Team Manager
- Lead the selection of Brython Thunder squads for each season in alignment with the Welsh DNA, in collaboration with National team coaches and the other Celtic Challenge team Head Coach, and the overall goals of the organisation
- Lead the weekly preparation and selection for competition games, including outstanding delivery of on and off-field coaching and learning using a variety of styles to meet the diverse needs of players and maximise player engagement, understanding and ownership of team’s game model
- Lead the creation of an outstanding performance and development environment and culture for players and staff to maximise the probability of success, establishing clear values, standards, and behaviours aligned to Welsh Rugby DNA
- Create and deliver comprehensive session, week, campaign, and season review information and material as part of the wider ‘Plan-Do-Review-Evolve’ philosophy of progressive development
- Lead and coordinate assistant coaches (and support staff when in competition) and contribute to recruitment and retention of players and staff
- Collaborate and provide support to the multidisciplinary support team for the team, ensuring alignment and collaboration with the wider support team across the WRU
- Develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with National Team coaches and performance support teams to ensure an aligned approach to selection and development of talent
- Support the creation and maintenance of exceptional individual development plans for Brython Thunder’s players in alignment with the Welsh DNA and in collaboration with National Coaches
- Act as an outstanding ambassador for the Brython Thunder, the Celtic Challenge, the WRU, and the game in Wales, representing the team in media and communications and work with intelligence and strategic awareness
- Provide support to WRU coach development activities on an agreed number of occasions per year
- What you’ll bring
- Level 3 Rugby coaching licence or recognised equivalent (ongoing annual completion of WRU Coach recognition programme)
- Demonstrable elite coaching experience either as a head or assistant in club and or international rugby, with a strong track record of success
- Exceptional on and off field delivery using a variety of methods and approaches
- Experience of identifying, managing, and developing talent with a strong affinity for the development of young players
- An understanding of the value of detailed planning for performance to achieve short, medium and long-term objectives
- A growth mindset and strong evidence of continued professional development
- Experience in the use of data and measurement processes to inform and accelerate the coaching process
- Evidence of good links and/or the ability to develop good relationships with club staff and key stakeholders
- Understanding and belief in the concept of a long-term developmental DNA for Welsh Rugby
- Highly resilient and comfortable in a high-profile role with intense public scrutiny
- A commitment to live in Wales and be present and engaged in all aspects of the role in a full‑time capacity
- Proficient in basic technology to enable self‑sufficient coaching and analysis
If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you!
WRU Requirements
The WRU require that individuals are proficient in IT skills, specifically Microsoft packages.
Excellent written and verbal communications are essential, along with the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Ability to communicate through the medium of Welsh and a Valid UK Driver's License is desirable. This role is subject to 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 ticketing policy)
- One additional paid day off (birthday leave)
- Employee assistance programme
- Team Tactics – hybrid working arrangements
- Free stadium parking and gym
- WRU Group store and tour discounts
- WRU Group partnership offers
- Eye Care Voucher Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Celtic Challenge Head Coach (Brython Thunder) in Cardiff employer: Welsh Rugby Union (WRU)
The WRU Group is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of integrity, excellence, and inclusion within the realm of Welsh Rugby. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer a range of benefits including a salary sacrifice pension scheme, hybrid working arrangements, and additional paid leave, all while promoting a supportive environment where every team member is valued and respected. Join us in shaping the future of women's coaching and development, where your expertise will contribute to a thriving community and the next generation of rugby talent.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Celtic Challenge Head Coach (Brython Thunder) in Cardiff
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We think you need these skills to ace Celtic Challenge Head Coach (Brython Thunder) in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sports and recreation shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the industry and how it's shaped your career choices. Sharing specific experiences, like managing a team or organising an event, can really make you stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, focus on any relevant internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to sports and recreation management. Make sure to quantify your achievements – did you increase team participation by a certain percentage or successfully lead a project? Numbers speak volumes!
Tailor Your CV for Sports Management:Use a CV format that emphasises your skills in leadership, teamwork, and event coordination. Don’t forget to include specific training or certifications that relate to sports management, as these can set you apart from other applicants. We love seeing candidates with relevant qualifications!
Express Your Long-Term Goals:In your application, we want to see your career aspirations in sports management. Don’t hesitate to include how you envision your future in this industry and how joining Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) aligns with those goals. We’re looking for candidates who are not just a perfect fit for the role but are also excited about growing with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Welsh Rugby Union (WRU)
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sports
When chatting with Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), make sure to express your genuine love for sports and recreation. Share experiences that showcase your passion, whether it's managing a local sports team, organising events, or simply being an active participant in various activities. This helps them see you're not just a fit on paper, but also someone who truly cares about the field.
✨Showcase Your Management Skills
This role is all about managing resources and people, so be ready to discuss your leadership and organisational skills. Prepare some examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed a project, particularly in a sports or recreation setting. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to make your answers concise and impactful.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect case studies or scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. You might be asked how you would handle a tricky situation, such as resolving a conflict between team members or managing a crisis during a major event. Think through these scenarios and practice how you’d articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Team Collaboration
In the sports and recreation management field, teamwork is essential. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you work within a team and foster a collaborative environment. Share success stories where teamwork led to a positive outcome, emphasising how you built relationships and encouraged participation among team members to achieve a common goal.
