Job Description

The post is a great opportunity to work with selected National Governing Bodies of sport in Wales, to assist a systematic approach to the development of the coaching workforce. This important strategic position will play a pivotal role in achieving all targets set in the Coaching Workforce strategy for 2015-19, which aims to increase the number of active coaches by 15,000.

This full-time post forms part of a partnership project between the Welsh Sports Association, sports coach UK and Sport Wales. Educated to degree level (or equivalent coaching qualifications / experience), you will be passionate and knowledgeable about coaches and coaching systems. You will be a well organised, highly skilled communicator, capable of developing solid partnerships within the sector.

Job Context
This post is a key component of a partnership between Sport Wales, sports coach UK and the Welsh Sports Association. A management group made of up representatives from each of these parties meets regularly to drive forward this area of work. The post-holder will make a valid contribution to fulfilling the strategic outcomes of the Welsh Sports Association.

Key aims of this partnership, in line with Sport Wales’ Workforce strategy (to be finalised), are to:
1. Increase the number of active coaches by 15,000 by 2019
2. Embed technology into the training of coaches at all levels
3. Bring together a vibrant network of local deliverers working together across Wales
4. Drive a reduction in the number of coaches that stop coaching by 2019

Main Duties
1. Work as part of the coaching team to deliver workforce plans with selected National Governing Bodies (NGBs)
2. Work with selected NGBs to help them to recruit, train, deploy and support a coach education workforce.
3. Work with selected NGBs to ensure CPD and Coach Care programmes are developed and implemented.
4. Ensure the Welsh NGB has a voice and effective role within the sport at UK level.
5. Play a coordination role across Welsh NGBs to support Coach Education and Development. This will include keeping abreast of good practice in the UK and in Wales and facilitating the sharing of good-practice across Wales. It will also include leading projects that can impact across a number of sports.
6. Support work to raise the profile and recognition of coaching in Wales.
7. Ensure all work done gives due consideration of all aspects of equality.
8. Manage relevant budgets.
9. Contribute to the delivery of the coaching plan for Wales (2015-2019)
10. Report progress as required.
The above list is not exhaustive. As the post evolves, additional responsibilities commensurate with the grade of the post may be identified

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential
1. A passion for sport and coaching
2. Relevant experience in sports development and / or significant understanding and knowledge of coaching and coach development systems within the context of Welsh Governing Bodies, local authorities and key stakeholders
3. Experience of leading coaching or workforce development programmes
4. Knowledge and Understanding of national and regional coaching structures and issues that impact upon sport in the UK and Wales
5. Knowledge and experience of leading work areas, developing position statements and identifying plans for action.
6. Ability to meet deadlines and work on own initiative
7. Proven ability of building and managing effective partnerships/relationships with internal and external customers and stakeholders inclusive of the volunteer sector in addition to paid professionals.
8. Excellent communication skills, interpersonal and negotiating skills, developed through working in a wide range of environments.
9. Experience of successfully delivering multiple projects, on time and within budget, utilising project management techniques
10. Ability to motivate and enthuse others through natural leadership skills
11. Excellent IT and administration skills
12. A full driving license and access to a car/able to travel easily throughout Wales and the UK.
13. Experience that demonstrates a record of personal achievement and motivation for continuous improvement
14. Ability and willingness to work some out of normal office hours, including evenings and weekends

Desirable
1. Hold a degree or equivalent in a sports related area
2. Ability to speak Welsh
3. An experienced and suitably qualified coach

How to apply
If you are interested in this role, please send your CV and covering letter, outlining your suitability for the role, to Victoria Ward at the Welsh Sports Association either by e-mail: Victoria.ward@welshsports.org.uk or by post to Welsh Sports Association, Sport Wales National Centre, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff CF11 9SW.

For an informal chat about the post, you can call Vicki Sutton (WSA) on 02920 334970.