Elite Swim Academy Head Coach

Virgin Active South Africa (Pty) Ltd; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

Virgin Active Chad Le Clos Swim Academy in Pretoria is seeking a Head Coach to lead the competitive swimming programme, inspire swimmers across all levels and create a high-performance environment while ensuring exceptional member experiences.

You will develop structured training aligned to the CLEC framework, monitor progression, and work with staff to grow membership, revenue and programme sustainability within the academy. A passion for wellness and swimming is essential.

Qualifications

• Matric/ NSC Certificate required.
• Swimming South Africa Level 1 Coaching Qualification or higher required.
• First Aid and CPR/AED certification required.
• Minimum 2 years’ swimming coaching experience, preferably in a club or academy.
• Experience coaching children and adults across multiple levels.
• Ability to deliver structured coaching programmes and measurable swimmer progression.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills.
• Understanding of pool safety, hygiene and safeguarding requirements.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Proactive approach with initiative.
• Experience leading or managing a swimming programme.
• Experience mentoring coaches and contractors.
• Ability to inspire and motivate individuals and teams.
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of programme profitability.
• Genuine passion for changing lives through swimming and wellness.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the competitive swimming programme at the club.
• Deliver the Virgin Active Chad Le Clos Swim Academy programme in line with academy, Virgin Active and CLEC standards.
• Coach and develop swimmers across the academy pathway, from entry-level squads to Elite and Masters.
• Develop and implement training programmes aligned to CLEC coaching framework.
• Monitor swimmer performance, progression, attendance and retention.
• Provide regular feedback and communication to swimmers and parents.
• Ensure swimmers are assessed, grouped and progressed appropriately.
• Drive swimmer participation in galas, competitions, clinics and events.
• Lead, manage and develop assistant coaches and contractors.
• Manage coaching resources and contractor utilisation.
• Collaborate with Club General Manager, Regional Coach and CLEC Operations Team to meet programme and business objectives.
• Drive membership growth, revenue, occupancy and retention within the programme.
• Maintain accurate attendance, swimmer, programme and operational records using Virgin Active systems.
• Ensure Health & Safety, safeguarding and operational requirements are met.
• Maintain brand standards and professional presentation.

Skills

Coaching

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Education

Matric / NSC

SSA Level 1 Coaching qualification or higher

Job description

Virgin Active Chad Le Clos Swim Academy in Pretoria is seeking a Head Coach to lead the competitive swimming programme, inspire swimmers across all levels and create a high-performance environment while ensuring exceptional member experiences.

You will develop structured training aligned to the CLEC framework, monitor progression, and work with staff to grow membership, revenue and programme sustainability within the academy. A passion for wellness and swimming is essential.