At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the attacking skills philosophy and develop elite-level coaching for players.
- Company: Join the WRU Group, dedicated to elevating Welsh Rugby to international success.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, hybrid working, and extra paid leave.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative culture that values integrity, excellence, and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Welsh Rugby's future and shape the next generation of players.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Coaching Licence and extensive experience in elite rugby coaching required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
As part of our ambition to return Welsh Rugby to the top of the international game, we are committed to building a clear, aligned Welsh rugby DNA. This will be underpinned by innovative and effective pathways and processes that consistently produce more and better players for both the professional and international environments.
A key element of this strategy is the opportunity to define and deliver a distinct attacking skills identity for the Welsh Men’s Senior Team, while also influencing and enhancing player development across our elite clubs. To support this, we are making additional targeted investment into the game, strengthening our performance function through the creation of new roles that will play a central part in shaping and delivering this vision.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the attacking skills philosophy
- Deliver elite-level coaching
- Develop players across national and club environments
- Contribute to selection, planning, and performance
What You’ll Bring
- Deep technical knowledge of attacking skills
- Extensive coaching experience in elite rugby environments
- Strong track record in skills coaching and player development
- Ability to influence across teams
- Level 3 Coaching Licence (or equivalent)
This role is a full-time role (35 hours per week) on a fixed-term contract. The role will be required to travel both in the UK and abroad and work weekends and evenings to support the elite performance programme of events.
Role Purpose
To support the Head Coach in achieving the ambitions for the men’s senior team by providing specialist technical, tactical and strategic rugby expertise. Furthermore, to assist in the alignment of internal teams and external clubs and pathways through close and influential relationships with Welsh professional clubs.
Key Responsibilities, Tasks And Activities
- The development of a clear and comprehensive skills philosophy for the men’s senior team and the wider pathways which aligns to the overall game model defined by the Head Coach and supports winning performance.
- The development of a clear and detailed skills framework along with principles, technical details, systems and game solutions including individual/team development of ball carry, ball movement, ball presentation, catch pass, take off times/running lines, offloads and high ball.
- Ensuring connection and alignment of skills development to game model, sub-units and incorporation into warmups, gym sessions, walkthroughs, team work and units.
- Technical development and decision-making including collaboration with the wider multi-disciplinary team to maximise effectiveness of practice and training design.
- Analysis and incorporation of current referee trends and interpretation as they apply to the attacking skills.
- Development of a comprehensive and detailed skills DNA derived from an evidence-based understanding of what it takes to win in skills terms.
- A clear language and terminology for the skills philosophy which aligns to the overall game model and Welsh Rugby DNA.
- The development of a comprehensive curriculum of development of skills in collaboration with other pathway coaches.
- Development and support of programmes of research and development to create a competitive advantage for Welsh rugby skills.
- Outstanding delivery of on and off-field coaching and learning using a variety of styles to meet the diverse needs of players.
- Support the Head Coach in the development of a clear and compelling vision and what it takes to win model for the men’s senior team in alignment with the wider Welsh rugby DNA.
- Co-creation of an outstanding performance and development environment and culture for players and staff in and out of camp.
- Support the selection of men’s senior team squads in alignment with the Welsh DNA and the organisation’s goals.
- Develop operational plans for cycles, seasons, campaigns and events.
- Deliver session, week, campaign and season review information as part of the Plan-Do-Review-Evolve philosophy.
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary support team for the men’s senior team and align with the WRU across the organisation.
- Coach identified players at professional clubs to support development to world-class standards and build relationships with Welsh professional clubs.
- Support creation and maintenance of development plans for Men’s senior international players in alignment with the Welsh DNA and with regional clubs.
- Engage in coaching, selection and development activities for the Welsh international player pathway to align selection and development decisions.
- Support WRU coach development activities.
- Maintain high levels of personal development to support role and team objectives.
- Act as a role model for Welsh age-grade coaches in coaching and leadership.
- Act as an ambassador for the WRU and the game in Wales, representing the team in media and communications.
- Participation in marketing and sponsorship activities as needed.
Person Specification
- Level 3 Rugby coaching licence or recognised equivalent.
- Proven skills coaching experience in club and/or international rugby.
- Excellent on- and off-field delivery using various methods.
- Experience identifying, managing and developing talent.
- Experience contributing to a high-performing, positive team culture.
- Clear understanding of detailed planning for performance.
- Growth mindset and continued professional development.
- Experience using data and measurement to inform coaching.
- Good links or ability to develop relationships with club staff and stakeholders.
- Understanding and belief in a long-term developmental DNA for Welsh Rugby.
- Commitment to live in Wales and be present in a full-time capacity.
- Proficient in basic technology for self-sufficient coaching and analysis.
Core behaviours
- Collaborative Teamwork
- Builds Relationships
- Influential Communication
- Excellence and Quality
- Creating Solutions
- Inspiring Others to Succeed
- Performing under pressure
The Perks
As a member of the WRU Group, you will have access to our employee benefits, including:
- Salary Sacrifice Pension (5% employee contribution, matched by WRU)
- Life assurance
- URC Group Ticket Allocation
- One additional paid day off (birthday leave)
- Employee assistance programme
- Team Tactics – hybrid working
- Free stadium parking and gym
- URC Group store and tour discounts
- URC Group partnership offers
- Eye Care Voucher Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Our Values and Inclusion
WRU Group is committed to a culture where all employees are valued and respected. Our values are Integrity, Excellence, Success, Courage, Family & Humour. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and provide information about our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy and monitoring.
Diversity monitoring: We know that we deliver better services when our workforce reflects the full range of backgrounds and experiences. A short monitoring form will be used to monitor inclusivity of our selection processes; information will be anonymous. You may select 'prefer not to say'.
Men’s Senior Specialist Coach - Attacking Skills in Pontyclun employer: WRU - Welsh Rugby Union
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is an exceptional employer for those passionate about rugby, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of the sport in Wales. With a commitment to employee growth, a supportive work culture, and competitive benefits such as a salary sacrifice pension and additional paid leave, WRU fosters an environment where coaches can thrive both personally and professionally. Located at the National Centre of Excellence, this role not only allows you to influence elite player development but also to be part of a team dedicated to returning Welsh Rugby to its rightful place on the international stage.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Men’s Senior Specialist Coach - Attacking Skills in Pontyclun
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the rugby community. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a knack for coaching, consider running a workshop or a free session. This not only showcases your expertise but also helps you build a reputation in the rugby scene. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential employers!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews like it’s game day! Research the organisation, understand their values, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their vision. Practise common interview questions and think about how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission to elevate Welsh Rugby.
We think you need these skills to ace Men’s Senior Specialist Coach - Attacking Skills in Pontyclun
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for rugby and coaching shine through. We want to see how much you care about developing players and contributing to Welsh Rugby's success!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant coaching experience and skills that align with the role. We’re looking for someone who can deliver elite-level coaching, so be specific about your achievements in this area.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your skills and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at WRU - Welsh Rugby Union
✨Know Your Skills Philosophy
Before the interview, make sure you have a clear understanding of your own attacking skills philosophy. Be ready to discuss how it aligns with the Welsh Rugby DNA and how you can contribute to developing a distinct identity for the team.
✨Showcase Your Coaching Experience
Prepare specific examples from your extensive coaching experience that highlight your success in developing players at elite levels. Use metrics or anecdotes to demonstrate how your coaching has led to tangible improvements in player performance.
✨Engage with the Team's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the current goals and ambitions of the Welsh Men’s Senior Team. Be prepared to discuss how you can support the Head Coach in achieving these objectives and how your role fits into the broader strategy.
✨Build Relationships
Emphasise your ability to build relationships with players, coaches, and stakeholders. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with multidisciplinary teams in the past to enhance player development and performance.
