The IRFU are inviting applications for the position of ‘High Performance Manager’ while IRUPA, in conjunction with the IRFU, are expanding its Player Services Programme (PSP) and wish to invite applications for the position of ‘Player Services Advisor’…

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) is the governing body for the sport of rugby union in Ireland. It comprises four provincial Branches Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster, as well as the National Governing Body. The IRFU is currently inviting applications for the position of ‘High Performance Manager’. This represents a unique and exciting opportunity to play a key role in overseeing the IRFU Elite Player Development Programme.

The Role:

Reporting to the IRFU Director of Rugby, the High Performance Manager will be responsible for the review and development of the IRFU Elite Player Development Programme. This will encompass responsibility for the National Age Grade Representation sides and the Provincial Academy structures. The High Performance Manager will work closely with the Irish professional rugby structures to maximise the emergence of future Irish professional players. Key areas of responsibilities include developing the elite pathway, people management, overseeing academy player contracts, succession planning, player welfare and financial planning.

The Candidate:

The successful candidate will have:

• A proven track record of achievement in the area of ‘Performance Development’ for elite athletes.
• Experience in the coaching and development of players in the elite representative game.
• Strong leadership skills including the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively.
• Experience in strategic management and planning.
• Knowledge and experience of financial management, performance management and corporate governance.
• An IRFU / IRB or related union coaching accreditation.

The Opportunity:

The successful candidate will receive a remuneration and benefits package commensurate with this responsibility. This position is being offered on a fixed term basis. Applicants should note that this role will require a lot of travel and attendance at age grade national games both at home and abroad.

Please forward your Curriculum Vitae (in confidence) with a covering letter of not more than one page supporting your application to recruitment@irfu.ie or Human Resources Department, 10-12 Lansdowne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.

The closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 20th July 2012.

The IRFU is an equal opportunities employer

 

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Meanwhile, IRUPA, in conjunction with the IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union) is expanding its Player Services Programme (PSP) and wishes to invite applications for the position of ‘Player Services Advisor’ to support players in the Leinster and Ulster rugby squads.

IRUPA, the Irish Rugby Union Players Association, is a non profit making organisation which aims to promote and protect the welfare of our members by endeavouring to safeguard their futures both on and off the pitch.

The Role:

The aim of the PSP is to assist players in achieving a sport/life balance during their careers and ultimately to make the transition out of professional rugby as smooth as possible when that time comes. The PSP assists players in undertaking educational, vocational and personal development opportunities. The Player Services Advisor will be responsible for managing the delivery of the PSP to the Leinster & Ulster squads. The successful candidate will be required to achieve set targets under the following areas:

• Career and education training
• Personal and professional development
• Player image and brand awareness
• Financial planning and management
• Management of specific welfare and support programmes

The Player Services Advisor will be required to develop and maintain close working relationship with players and provincial team management in Leinster and Ulster. They will be required to attend quarterly meetings of both the Leinster and Ulster Player Services Working Parties, and provide regular progress reports.

The Candidate:

The successful candidates will:

• Have a minimum of three years experience and a record of achievement in delivering a professional programme, preferably within a service or support environment.
• Be educated to degree level preferably in a discipline related to the role.
• Be an excellent communicator/ presenter with the ability to build close relationships with stakeholders.
• Have excellent organisational skills and be highly motivated.
• Preferably have experience and knowledge in some of the following areas: career planning with adults, learning and development programmes, outplacement and recruitment, knowledge of education courses and training providers, knowledge of employee welfare and general well-being.
• Preferably have a background in sport and an understanding of elite athletes’ needs and requirements.

The Opportunity:

This is a unique career opportunity to work within the top professional sport operating in Ireland today. IRUPA will continue to support the success of our players by ensuring their welfare is paramount. This key role, reporting directly to the IRUPA CEO, will play an important part in providing that support.

Applicants should note that the Player Services Advisor will be required to travel between Dublin and Belfast on a weekly basis, and therefore should hold a current and valid driver’s license in Ireland/ UK.

Applicants should forward a CV and a cover letter of no more than one page, in confidence to:

Omar Hassanein
Chief Executive
IRUPA
E-mail: omar@irupa.ie

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 23rd July