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Celtic Challenge Head Coach (Brython Thunder)
Welsh Rugby Union (WRU)
Governing body for the national sport of Wales. Leading Welsh rugby to the forefront of the global game in performance and reputation. Developing grass-roots rugby, increasing participation, supporting clubs and bringing communities together.
Job Posted- 14 Jul 2026
Status- Full Time
Location- Wales
Closing date- 22 Jul 2026
The role
As part of our ambition to return Welsh Rugby to the top of the international game, player welfare and clinical excellence sit at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to building a women's performance pathway that supports every athlete to develop, stay available, and perform — and that starts with outstanding technical and tactical coaching at every level of the programme.
The Celtic Challenge is a critical part of our women's performance pathway, and this role is central to it. As Brython Thunder Head Coach, lead the team’s performance programme, driving high-performing standards, developing elite players, and delivering competitive success on and off the field. You will shape Brython Thunder’s playing philosophy, culture, and assist in effectively preparing players for the national team. You will also assist in the alignment of internal teams and external clubs and pathways through close and influential relationships.
What you'll do
- Lead the development of a clear and compelling vision and ‘what it takes to win’ model for Brython Thunder in alignment with the wider Welsh rugby DNA.
- Implement this vision in a clear and comprehensive game model and playing style for the team which aligns to Welsh Rugby DNA.
- Deliver the game model through a season and weekly coaching, training, and competition programme, including the development of excellent and detailed operational plans for the Celtic Challenge season in collaboration with the Women’s Pathway Operations Manager and the team’s Team Manager
- Lead the selection of Brython Thunder squads for each season in alignment with the Welsh DNA, in collaboration with National team coaches and the other Celtic Challenge team Head Coach, and the overall goals of the organisation
- Lead the weekly preparation and selection for competition games, including outstanding delivery of on and off-field coaching and learning using a variety of styles to meet the diverse needs of players and maximise player engagement, understanding and ownership of team’s game model
- Lead the creation of an outstanding performance and development environment and culture for players and staff to maximise the probability of success, establishing clear values, standards, and behaviours aligned to Welsh Rugby DNA
- Create and deliver comprehensive session, week, campaign, and season review information and material as part of the wider ‘Plan-Do-Review-Evolve’ philosophy of progressive development
- Lead and coordinate assistant coaches (and support staff when in competition) and contribute to recruitment and retention of players and staff
- Collaborate and provide support to the multidisciplinary support team for the team, ensuring alignment and collaboration with the wider support team across the WRU
- Develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with National Team coaches and performance support teams to ensure an aligned approach to selection and development of talent
- Support the creation and maintenance of exceptional individual development plans for Brython Thunder’s players in alignment with the Welsh DNA and in collaboration with National Coaches
- Act as an outstanding ambassador for the Brython Thunder, the Celtic Challenge, the WRU, and the game in Wales, representing the team in media and communications and work with intelligence and strategic awareness
- Provide support to WRU coach development activities on an agreed number of occasions per year
What you'll bring
- Level 3 Rugby coaching licence or recognised equivalent (ongoing annual completion of WRU Coach recognition programme)
- Demonstrable elite coaching experience either as a head or assistant in club and or international rugby, with a strong track record of success
- Exceptional on and off field delivery using a variety of methods and approaches
- Experience of identifying, managing, and developing talent with a strong affinity for the development of young players
- An understanding of the value of detailed planning for performance to achieve short, medium and long-term objectives
- A growth mindset and strong evidence of continued professional development
- Experience in the use of data and measurement processes to inform and accelerate the coaching process
- Evidence of good links and/or the ability to develop good relationships with club staff and key stakeholders
- Understanding and belief in the concept of a long-term developmental DNA for Welsh Rugby
- Highly resilient and comfortable in a high-profile role with intense public scrutiny
- A commitment to live in Wales and be present and engaged in all aspects of the role in a full-time capacity
- Proficient in basic technology to enable self-sufficient coaching and analysis
If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you!
WRU Requirements
The WRU require that individuals are proficient in IT skills, specifically Microsoft packages. Excellent written and verbal communications are essential, along with the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Ability to communicate through the medium of Welsh and a Valid UK Driver's License is desirable. This role is subject to a basic/enhanced DBS check.
The Perks
As a permanent member of the WRU Group, you will have access to our full range of employee benefits, including:
- Salary Sacrifice Pension (5% employee contribution, matched by WRU)
- Life assurance scheme
- WRU Group Ticket Allocation (in line with ticketing policy)
- One additional paid day off (birthday leave)
- Employee assistance programme
- Team Tactics – hybrid working arrangements
- Free stadium parking and gym
- WRU Group store and tour discounts
- WRU Group partnership offers
- Eye Care Voucher Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Our Values
The WRU Group are committed to developing a culture whereby all employees are equally valued and respected. Our aims, together with our vision and mission, are underpinned by our core values and beliefs which embrace: Integrity, Excellence, Success, Courage, Family & Humour.
Inclusion At The WRU
The WRU Group are committed to building diverse, high-performing and engaged teams across Welsh Rugby. We are ambitious about providing a people first culture where everyone can belong, be heard and respected. We are happy to talk to you about our Crys I Bawb EDI Strategy (2024-2029) and you can also read more about our commitment in our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy.
How to Apply
Please click APPLY NOW to begin the application process.