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Junior and Youth Participation Lead
New Zealand Rugby
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is the governing body of rugby union in New Zealand.
Job Posted- 20 Apr 2026
Status- Full Time
Location- New Zealand
Closing date- 28 Apr 2026
New Zealand Rugby has an exciting opportunity for a Junior & Youth Participation Lead to help maintain and grow a thriving community game.
This national leadership role supports the development of junior and youth rugby across New Zealand, strengthening system connectivity and creating engaging, safe and inclusive experiences for young players. You will collaboratively design, deliver and evaluate participation and development programmes, provide system‑wide leadership to Provincial Unions, and champion NZR’s Junior Rugby Guidelines and Balance is Better philosophy across participation, game development, injury prevention and wellbeing. The role reports to the Participation and Development Manager and contributes to national priorities including Women and Girls Rugby and a Safer Game.
About You
You will bring proven experience in junior and/or youth sport development, strong change‑management capability, sound knowledge of sport development systems and research, and the ability to influence through high‑quality communication, facilitation and relationship leadership. Relevant rugby development experience and a tertiary qualification in sport, education or management are preferred.
About Us
At NZR we love what we do, we work hard and have fun! You’ll be joining a team of awesome people who are passionate about the game and each other, and you’ll be backed with support to thrive in your role. We know that life isn’t all about work, so we are open to flexible working options.
We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to improving our cultural responsiveness. We embrace and respect each other’s values and we are so proud to be Rainbow Tick certified. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life.
How to Apply
Please click APPLY NOW to begin the application process.