Head of National High Performance Programs

Head of National High Performance Programs

Moore Park, Sydney

Rugby Australia (Rugby AU), the governing body of Rugby Union in Australia, is looking for an experienced Head of National High-Performance Programs.

The Head of National High Performance Programs is responsible for leading and managing systems to identify, recruit, develop and retain talented players and match officials across Australia and drive the national team programs of the 7s, Wallaroos, Junior Wallabies and Australian U18/Schoolboys. Players involved in the system are expected to progress into players at Super Rugby, Wallabies, Wallaroos and national Sevens team levels.

The role requires the development and maintenance of relationships and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders including Rugby AU staff and departments, the States, clubs, and schools (and associations), international bodies such as World Rugby and Oceania Rugby, and other professional bodies.

The role also acts as the Chair of the National High-Performance Panel and is responsible for the alignment, strategic and operational direction and management of all state and national teams and competitions.

Key Responsibilities of the Role:

Strategic Alignment of National Programs

  • Along with the 7’s, Wallaroos and the National Academies/Junior Wallabies Head Coaches and Program Managers, ensure an integrated and aligned system that drives National success. Key elements include:
    • Coach development and alignment in conjunction with the National Coaching Director
    • An aligned IDP process linking closely to the Super Rugby clubs and Wallabies Integration of High-Performance services for all programs in conjunction with the Chief Performance Manager
    • A national identity that links all programs together.

Effective Recruitment and Retention of Talent

  • Work closely with the National Player Contracting Manager, 7’s and National Academies Head Coach and State Heads of Talent Management to ensure financial and other benefits are applied appropriately
  • Manage EDS and oversee 7s contracting Nationally
  • Develop an effective strategy to sell ‘Rugby’. This involves working closely with Rugby Australia’s digital and marketing teams.
  • Strategic Leadership of Talent Identification and Player Development
  • Along with the 7’s, Wallaross and National Academies Head Coaches and program managers, ensure “player development” becomes a point of difference between Rugby and other codes. This includes physical, tactical, technical, and personal development
  • Work to ensure the highest possible coaching standards are met for coaches working within the elite player pathway
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key schools and associations across the country to promote player identification, development, recruitment, and retention. Take a “team approach” to this by involving State staff and 7’s and the National Academies Head Coaches
  • Work with Event & Operations staff to ensure Rugby Australia manage and support competitions that provide High-Performance outcomes which contribute to the development and retention of key player and coaching/management talent.

Match officials

  • Ensure the High-Performance Match Officials program is a key National program and is integrated fully across the system through:
    • Relevant technology platforms
    • HP physical development assistance
    • Access to all other relevant HP systems

  • Represent Australia to World Rugby in matters concerning laws and the direction of the game.

To be successful you will need:

  • Relevant Degree
  • Strategic planning and implementation skills
  • Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship building skills
  • High level rugby knowledge
  • Logistic and budget planning experience
  • Player identification, recruitment, and succession planning experience
  • High level coaching and/or High-Performance knowledge in Rugby or other sports

We are looking for someone dedicated, and capable who also demonstrates initiative, and professionalism.

To apply please send your CV and cover letter supporting your application to Rachel Buckling at Rachel.Buckling@rugby.com.au. Applications close Monday 21 February 2022