Exeter University Men’s and High Performance Coach (Forwards Specialist)

Working hours: Monday to Friday, with Saturday fixtures.

Salary: Competitive

The University of Exeter are seeking an ambitious and motivated coach to join one of the leading university rugby programmes in the UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role within a High-Performance Programme, leading the Men’s Saturday XV competing in National League Rugby, whilst contributing as a specialist Forwards Coach across the wider performance pathway.

This role offers the chance to:

· Lead a competitive Men’s Saturday XV squad competing in National 2/Regional 1

· Coach and develop talented student-athletes within a high-performance environment

· Work alongside experienced coaching, strength & conditioning, medical, and performance staff

· Influence player development through coaching, analysis, and individual support

· Contribute to one of the most respected university rugby programmes in the country

· Take ownership of a senior performance team within a structured high-performance system

CPD and development opportunities:

· Exposure to a high-performance, multi-disciplinary sporting environment

· Collaboration with experienced coaches and practitioners across performance disciplines

· Opportunity to observe and coach within a professional premiership environment at certain periods of the season (Exeter Chiefs Invitational Games)

· Development of leadership experience through full team ownership

· Opportunities to enhance technical coaching, unit development, and analysis practice

· Access to ongoing CPD within the wider academy structure

· Experience working with ambitious athletes progressing towards senior and elite rugby environments

Person specifications:

· Ambitious, driven, and committed to continual development

· Works well within a collaborative staff environment

· Has a team first approach, and willing to support the programme needs, including responsibilities beyond their core remit when necessary

· Has genuine passion for coaching and improving players

· Brings energy, clarity, and presence to the coaching environment

· Is organised and dependable in planning and delivery

· Has administrative skills to be able to manage registrations and logistics

· Remains adaptable, resilient, and solution-focused under pressure

· Values professionalism and high-performance behaviours

· Manages team kit effectively, including in the preparation for fixtures and training

Working Pattern:

Pre-Season

Monday to Friday

6th of July through to Mid-September

In-Season:

Monday: HPP Forwards Coaching and Sat XV Training (Late pm Finish)

Tuesday: HPP Skills and Sat XV Training (Evening Training)

Wednesday: Fixtures for BUCS 2s/3s Squads (Home & Away)

Thursdays: Team Coaching for Sat XV (Evening Training)

Friday: Day Off

Saturday: Fixtures for National 2/Regional 1 Squad

Sunday Day Off

This is a full-time role requiring flexibility, including evening training and Saturday fixtures during the season. More specificity around the working pattern will be provided at interview stage. Place of work will be Exeter University Streatham Campus with travel to other locations when needed. Pre-Season training will be at our Topsham Sports Ground facility.

Required:

- RFU Level 2 Coaching Qualification (or equivalent)

- Forwards Coaching Experience at English Tier 5 or above (or comparable in other nations) or U18s ‘Competitive’ Level

- UK Full Driver’s Licence

- Strong planning, communication, and organisational skills

- Ability to build positive relationships and drive standards

Desirable:

- RFU Level 3 or Higher Coaching Qualification

- Degree or postgraduate qualification in Sport Science or related field

- Experience within talent development or high-performance Rugby

- Analysis software/performance review experience

Contract and salary:

· Full Time position (fixed term to be discussed at appointment stage)

· Salary: Competitive (indicative range available on request)

· Start Date: July (or as agreed)

How to apply:

Please submit your CV and covering letter to garethelliott@exeterchiefs.co.uk

Only successful candidates will be contacted

Application Deadline: Wednesday 13th May 2026

Initial Interview: Week commencing 18th May 2026