Purpose

The purpose of this role is to lead the elite pathways and player development strategy of the ACT Brumbies. 

The Head of Elite Pathways & Player Development is tasked with developing and managing the ACT Brumbies elite pathways programmes. This includes age-grade talent identification processes as well as delivering holistic player development and coaching strategies aligned with the systems and philosophies of the ACT Brumbies professional team.

The role will be responsible for achieving key strategic high-performance outcomes which are critical to the sustained success of the ACT Brumbies.

Key Accountabilities

• In conjunction with the General Manager, Professional Rugby & Pathways:
  • Develop the ACT Brumbies 2026-2029 Elite Pathways and Player Development Strategy
  • Using the Elite Pathways and Player Development Strategy, develop annual performance plans to prioritise yearly objectives
  • Identify and appoint coaching and performance staff for the ACT Brumbies Academy as well as all Age-Grade and Pathways teams
  • Develop key performance indicators that measure the effectiveness and impact of the ACT Brumbies Academy and Pathways
  • Lead the program and campaign review process of the ACT Brumbies Academy as well as Age-Grade and Pathways teams to ensure that development needs are being met
  • Lead and manage the ACT Brumbies scholarship or beneficiary programs, e.g. George Gregan Scholarship
  • Support administrative tasks including board reports and the necessary Rugby Australia reporting processes
• Lead and coach the ACT Brumbies Academy as well as Elite Age-Grade and Pathways teams (Academy, U19 and Brumbies Runners)
• Develop and maintain valid and reliable talent identification and confirmation processes aligned to ACT Brumbies recruitment strategies and philosophies
• Lead the creation of a Fundamental and Position Specific Skill and Physical Development curriculum that can be implemented within schools and junior clubs
• Capture all programs, competitions and events and manage the global Academy and Pathways calendar
• Ensure that Individual Player Plans are created, monitored and reviewed for all Academy players
• Provide ongoing guidance and support to ACT Brumbies Academy and Pathways staff
• When required, attend Rugby Australia conferences, meetings, and national Age-Grade camps
• Cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders
• Act as a conduit between the ACT Brumbies Academy and Pathways teams, and the ACT Brumbies Professional team
• Be willing and able to improve the standard of play in the ACT & Southern NSW region
• Available for regular after hours and weekend activities as well as intrastate travel

Capabilities, Experience & Qualification Requirements

Capabilities

• Strong understanding of technical and tactical aspects of rugby union
• A genuine passion for pathways level player development
• Proven experience in athlete development
• Collaborative style and political awareness and able to work positively in partnership with a variety of stakeholders
• Previous experience in managing staff
• Strong ability to research, analyse and interpret statistical game data and trends
• Strong attention to detail
• Self-starter with a proactive attitude
• Understanding of/willing to learn where and how to maximise athletic performance metrics into the rugby program
• Able to be part of a cohesive team
• Able to effectively communicate and engage the relevant audience
• Able to manage unpredictable demands in a professional and courteous manner.
• Budget management skills
• Record, information and database management skills (as required)

Experience & Qualification Requirements

• A minimum of three years’ experience in high-performance sport management/leadership
• Level 3/4 coaching accreditation
• Demonstrated coaching experience across different levels of the game
• Degree or study in coaching, teaching or the equivalent
• Experience working with young athletes in a variety of situations including training, competition, planning and advisory
• Demonstrated experience in strategy development and instigation within the sport
• Knowledge and understanding of the key components for successful high-performance sports programs and systems
• Current drivers license