Senior Rugby Development Officer

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown is seeking a Senior Rugby Development Officer to lead community rugby development and coaching programs. You will design, implement, and oversee development initiatives across schools, clubs, and community groups, promoting youth participation and sustainable pathways.

The role requires strong rugby coaching knowledge, project management skills, and a passion for youth development with willingness to travel and work flexible hours.

Qualifications

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Sports Management, Coaching Science, Education, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in sports development, coaching, or a similar role, with focus on rugby.
• World Rugby Level 2 coaching certification or equivalent; Level 3 preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive rugby development strategies and action plans for the designated region.
• Design, coordinate, and deliver coaching clinics, workshops, and training sessions for players, coaches, and referees at various levels.
• Identify and nurture emerging rugby talent through structured scouting and development programs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, rugby clubs, community organizations, and local government stakeholders.
• Organize and manage regional rugby tournaments, festivals, and events.
• Promote rugby participation and ensure adherence to the spirit of the game and fair play principles.
• Manage the budget allocated for development programs, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact and effectiveness of development initiatives, providing regular reports to senior management.
• Mentor and support junior development officers and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with child protection policies and safety regulations in all activities.
• Contribute to the overall strategic growth and development of rugby within the province.

Skills

Rugby development

Coaching principles

Youth development

Project management

Budgeting

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Communication

Travel flexibility

Driver's license

Education

Tertiary qualification in Sports Management, Coaching Science, Education, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent sports governing body focused on grassroots development in the Queenstown region, Eastern Cape, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Rugby Development Officer. This role is instrumental in promoting and expanding the sport of rugby at the community level. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing various rugby development programs, coaching initiatives, and talent identification schemes. They will work closely with schools, local clubs, and community leaders to foster a love for rugby and build sustainable participation pathways. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of rugby coaching principles, strong project management skills, and a passion for youth development. This is a significant opportunity to make a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive rugby development strategies and action plans for the designated region.
• Design, coordinate, and deliver coaching clinics, workshops, and training sessions for players, coaches, and referees at various levels.
• Identify and nurture emerging rugby talent through structured scouting and development programs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, rugby clubs, community organizations, and local government stakeholders.
• Organize and manage regional rugby tournaments, festivals, and events.
• Promote rugby participation and ensure adherence to the spirit of the game and fair play principles.
• Manage the budget allocated for development programs, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact and effectiveness of development initiatives, providing regular reports to senior management.
• Mentor and support junior development officers and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with child protection policies and safety regulations in all activities.
• Contribute to the overall strategic growth and development of rugby within the province.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Sports Management, Coaching Science, Education, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in sports development, coaching, or a similar role, with a focus on rugby.
• World Rugby Level 2 coaching certification or equivalent is essential; Level 3 is preferred.
• Proven experience in program design, implementation, and management.
• Strong understanding of youth development principles and grassroots sports promotion.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with diverse community groups and stakeholders.
• Project management and budgeting skills.
• Proficiency in standard office software.
• A passion for rugby and community development.
• Willingness to travel extensively within the region and work flexible hours, including weekends.
• Valid driver's license and own reliable transport is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, travel allowances, and opportunities for professional development and further coaching qualifications. This role provides a chance to significantly influence the future of rugby in the Queenstown area and the wider Eastern Cape , ZA . Join a dedicated team committed to sports development and community empowerment.