Head Coach
Gillingham Anchorians Rugby Football Club (GARFC)
Location: Gillingham, Kent
Reports to: Club Committee
Remuneration: Dependent on experience
About Gillingham Anchorians RFC
Gillingham Anchorians RFC is a proud, community-driven rugby club based in Kent with a strong history of competitive senior rugby and a commitment to player development at all levels.
We are particularly proud of our thriving Colts section, which provides a strong pipeline of talented young players transitioning into senior rugby. The club has a positive, ambitious culture built around teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement.
As we look to strengthen our senior programme and maximise the potential of our player pathway, we are seeking an ambitious and committed Head Coach to lead and develop our senior squad.
Role Purpose
The Head Coach will take overall responsibility for the leadership, performance, and development of senior rugby at Gillingham Anchorians RFC.
This includes establishing a clear playing philosophy, creating a strong culture, developing players (including transition from Colts to senior rugby), and driving competitive performance aligned with the club’s values.
Key Responsibilities
Coaching & Performance
Design and implement a clear playing philosophy and season plan.
Lead and deliver structured, high-quality weekly training sessions.
Develop and oversee tactical frameworks across attack, defence, and set piece.
Lead matchday preparation and in-game management.
Conduct performance analysis and structured post-match reviews.
Drive measurable improvement in individual and team performance.
Player Development & Pathway
Create clear development plans for senior players.
Support and manage the transition of Colts into senior rugby.
Provide constructive, regular feedback to players.
Mentor assistant coaches and senior player leaders.
Support recruitment and retention initiatives.
Leadership & Club Contribution
Build and maintain a positive, disciplined, and ambitious team culture.
Work collaboratively with the Club Committee and wider club volunteers.
Uphold RFU regulations, safeguarding standards, and club policies.
Represent the club professionally within the league and local rugby community.
Person Specification
Essential
Strong understanding of rugby union laws, tactics, and modern coaching principles.
Proven experience coaching senior or adult rugby.
Experience coaching at Level 7 or above.
Demonstrable leadership experience within a rugby environment.
RFU Coaching Qualification – minimum ERCA (or working towards).
Excellent communication and organisational skills.
Desirable
RFU Coaching Qualification – ERACA or higher.
Experience integrating youth/Colts players into senior squads.
Experience in video analysis and performance review.
First Aid and Safeguarding certification.
Key Attributes
Ambitious and forward-thinking.
Strong communicator and visible leader.
Organised and professional.
Resilient and adaptable.
Committed to continuous personal and team development.
Time Commitment
Two evening training sessions per week (typically Tuesday & Thursday).
Saturday matchdays during the season.
Pre-season planning and conditioning oversight.
Occasional committee meetings and club events.
What We Offer
Opportunity to shape and lead senior rugby within an ambitious community club.
A strong and growing Colts pipeline feeding into senior rugby.
Support for coaching qualifications and CPD.
Remuneration dependent on experience.
How to Apply
To apply, please send your rugby/coaching CV and a covering letter outlining your coaching philosophy and vision for the role to:
kparbutt@gmail.com
Closing date: 30th April
