Head of Security (Men's RWC 2027)

Closing date for applications is Tuesday 11 November 2025

Full time Fixed Term Contract Start February 2026 until November 2027 Location: Sydney (Gadigal), Australia

The Rugby World Cup (RWC) Australia is proud to deliver one of the world’s most iconic sporting events — the Rugby World Cup 2027 (Men’s). More than a tournament, it’s a celebration of Rugby’s spirit, Australia’s culture, and the power of sport to unite and inspire communities around the world.

About the role

The Head of Security will play a key role within the Tournament Services department and will be responsible for the development and coordination of security plans and operations for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 (RWC2027). Reporting to the General Manager, Tournament Services, this role will work closely with colleagues across World Rugby Events & Media (WREM) and the LOC, as well as other key stakeholders, to plan and deliver a safe and secure event for all tournament stakeholders. This role will have a number of direct and indirect reports across the functional area responsibilities.

This is an exciting and unique opportunity to be a part of a global event that will set new standards and drive the growth of rugby. We are looking for candidates who are passionate about sport, understand the power it has to make a difference and have a strong commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. You will be part of a team that aims to inspire a new generation of fans and participants.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Develop an Integrated Event Security Plan for RWC 2027
Establish risk and threat assessments for the tournament including across match venues, airports, hotels and host cities working with and alongside the appropriate government authorities
Contribute to the development of the accreditation and access control protocols and ensure the management of the access control strategy against agreed protocols
Develop and maintain positive relationships with the relevant government agencies and security services, venue operators, partners and other tournament stakeholders ensuring integrated planning and delivery
Lead the procurement of security providers, where required, to ensure that security service levels are met across match and non-match venues
Represent the LOC at Security Working Group meetings as required
Work closely with key security stakeholders including Government departments and Police to ensure a seamless and collaborative approach to Security for the tournament and ensure that all security requirements are integrated into the planning process and delivery
Work with match venues to define security and safety operations in each of the match venues and the host cities
Work with key stakeholders to establish and mitigate any risks across non-match venues including Team Bases and Airports
Provide security and risk management leadership, guidance and advice to WREM and LOC management, staff and participants
Contribute to the development of C3 protocols for the tournament, defining clear roles and responsibilities, and the formulation of the tournament’s readiness plan
Oversee and manage the Security budget, working alongside Venue Management in relation to Security costs at Match Venues
Oversee the recruitment and management of the Security team including tournament time operational staff and provide leadership to deliver a world-class operation
Lead the development and delivery of training and competency of Security staff and contractors incl. Team Security Advisors
Development of all necessary documentation on time and to the required high standard, such as the Tournament Security Framework, Functional Area Operating Plan, policies, procedures and contingency plans 
Monitor and manage milestones outlined in the tournament masterplan, ensuring all elements are met on time and to the desired standard, with risks identified and mitigated against
Attend operational planning site visits as and when required
Issue reporting, management and resolution during the tournament

Qualifications & Experience

10 years of experience with 5 years in a Senior Manager position.
Experience and demonstrate success in delivering similar operational requirements in previous roles, ideally on major sporting events and/or events within Australia.
Extensive experience in managing or leading a specific project from providing strategic direction and guidance to overseeing operational planning and delivery.
Experience in conducting risk and threat assessments for major events.
A working knowledge of safety and security threats and a proven ability to deal with them appropriately and sensitively.
Excellent communicator, highly personable and can build strong relationships with colleagues and a diverse range of stakeholders quickly 
Ability to collaborate with colleagues to effectively deliver on mutual objectives
Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and help drive an organisational culture that enables others to perform at their best
Meticulous attention to detail, exceptional organisational skills, the ability to prioritise and multitask, and remain calm under pressure
Adept at working under pressure in a fast-paced environment, delivering work to deadlines and honouring commitments
Flexible to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on event schedules
A proven track record of working in an international environment with considerations for multiple cultures and languages.

Why You’ll Love It Here

Competitive salary – we know world-class talent deserves to be rewarded.
Hybrid game plan: Work from home on Mondays and Fridays, with a 3-day in-office schedule (Tues–Thu), moving to full-time in-office in 2027 as the tournament approaches.
Unbeatable location: A modern space across from Sydney’s Hyde Park, just a 5-minute walk from Town Hall, surrounded by public transport, great cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Wellbeing first: Weekly fresh fruit, Lunch & Learns and a focus on keeping our team feeling their best on and off the field.
Locker-room ready: Showers, fresh towels, and Dyson hair tools so you can reset and refresh any time.
Team spirit: Weekly drinks and social catchups that celebrate wins big and small.
Make your mark: Play a key role in bringing the third largest sporting event in the world to life right here in Australia!

How to apply:

Please submit your CV (maximum 3 pages) and a cover letter outlining your suitability based on the requirements for the role via the APPLY NOW link.

In setting expectations, there will be a 3-round interview process in the Sydney City office (Elizabeth Street).

RWC Australia is committed to building a diverse workforce and therefore strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups. We are committed to equality and inclusion and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of their background and are happy to provide reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive workplace, which reflects the global sport we want to be and where everyone can be themselves and feel they belong.