The Welsh Rugby Union are advertising a new role to help improve the elite behaviour and psychology of their players.
According to a job listing for the Head of Behavioural Performance, the governing body are looking for someone to "lead the strategic and operational delivery of high performance culture, leadership, team effectiveness and psychological development across the men’s and women’s game". The advert adds that the role would be accountable for "defining, creating and embedding a clear Welsh DNA for behavioural performance" for players, coaches and staff.
Role aims to establish world-leading system
The role's aim is to establish Welsh Rugby as a world-leading high-performance system across all national teams and pathways. The job listing closes at the end of July, with the advert stating the salary is competitive.
As well as establishing and delivering a system-wide strategy, language and standard for behavioural performance across all WRU teams and pathways, whoever gets the job would also be expected to provide direct support to the men's national team as well as other selected sides to help with team dynamics and high-pressure performance environments.
Responsibilities and qualifications
They would also be required to design and implement practical toolkits, framework and support systems to develop the psychological and behavioural capabilities of players, coaches, and staff. They will also need to maintain relationships with the professional clubs to ensure aligned cultural and behavioural development for Welsh-qualified players.
A degree in psychology, behavioural science, social science, sport science, or a related field, alongside professional accreditation is required. The WRU are also looking for someone with an extensive background in elite sport or high-performance environments, with a proven track record in leading culture, leadership, and team development programmes.
Other coaching searches ongoing
The WRU are already on the search for two coaching roles. Having hired Paul James as scrum coach earlier this year, the governing body is also looking for a kicking coach and an attacking skills coach. Having taken applications earlier this summer, nothing more has been announced on that front.
