Purpose

Over the next 5 years, Australian rugby will have an unprecedented opportunity to grow the game, fueled by a series of international rugby events being held in Australia including the 2025 British & Irish Lions Tour, 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup, and 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup. The future of rugby in Australia is bright, and this is your opportunity to join the team.

Tasmania Rugby Union (TRU) is the state administrative body for Rugby in Tasmania, responsible for managing the development and delivery of the game.  The agreed purpose of the role is to lead, develop, implement and manage strategies to progress and grow TRU and the sport of Rugby Union.

This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, including working closely with other State/Territory Governing bodies, the Tasmanian Government and influencing strategic initiatives, and developing innovative community programs.

Reporting to the TRU Board & Rugby Australia, the General Manager is responsible for managing all TRU operations, finances, resources, facilities, staff and club development.

Key Accountabilities

Strategy

• To implement the TRU Strategic Plan and develop business plans for key strategic priorities in consultation with key stakeholders.
• Lead the implementation of TRU’s standards and behaviours.
• In consultation with key stakeholders develop strong governance and compliance.
• Develop and implement a long-term growth participation strategy for all TRU regional affiliates.
• Work in conjunction with Rugby Australia to increase TRU’s brand within the community through an aligned media and communications strategy.
• Manage commercial opportunities including sponsorship and licensing, to strengthen and diversify Tasmania Rugby’s revenue base.

People Management

• Lead TRU Rugby staff, providing leadership, guidance and mentoring.
• Foster a working environment that inspires the team to succeed. Organise, motivate and manage to ensure a committed and professional team.
• Coordinate and support the casual & volunteer workforce.
• People management including recruitment, separation, staff development, performance management, compensation and benefits.

Business Operations

• Perform general management duties overseeing the day-to-day operations of the TRU to ensure its overall successful long-term operation.
• Manage and maintain current Government relationships.
• Lead the development and implementation of a facility management plan, including strategic decision making on the future use of Rugby Park.
• Manage commercial partnerships including sponsorship, suppliers and licensing, including the servicing and delivery of benefits.
• Oversee the annual management and administration of the senior and junior club competitions.
• Oversee major functions and events.
• Ensure operational procedures and policies are consistent and comply with the Tasmania Government and Rugby Australia.

Financial Management and Administration

• Work with the TRU Board to develop a budget that aligns with our strategic goals and priorities, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to support long-term growth. Maintain fiscal responsibility by managing finances within budget guidelines and adhering to relevant laws and regulations
• In association with the TRU Board develop and administer the annual business plan, budget and monthly/annual reporting.

Stakeholder Management

• Foster a working environment that inspires Community Rugby Clubs to grow and succeed.
• Build influential and collaborative relationships with a range of Stakeholders including but not limited to Governments & Councils, Sponsors, Associations and Rugby Clubs, other State Sporting Organisations and the broader rugby community.

Club Development

• Contribute to the evolution of the Club Development strategy in Tasmania.
• Lead and support TRU clubs in building strategic plans, achieving governance and financial compliance, and operation efficiencies.
• Support clubs in the development of action plans to future proof clubs and build capability and capacity of the organisation and create welcoming and inclusive environments for all members.

Capabilities, Experience & Qualification Requirements

Capabilities

Required

• Excellent stakeholder management skills with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders
• Strong communication skills with a written and verbal ability to develop and deliver presentations on strategic and operational direction
• Demonstrated project management skills, including an ability to analyse, plan, monitor, evaluate and prioritise
• Self-starter with a proactive attitude
• Demonstrated ability to think, plan and mobilise others to act strategically

Desired

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with proven experience managing people
• Ability to resolve sensitive and critical issues internally and externally
• Ability to deliver practical programs and projects
• Working knowledge of Community Rugby standards, expectations and opportunities
• Experience managing or supporting infrastructure, facilities or grants projects

Experience

Required

• Previous experience managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders
• Strategic planning including the development of business plans and supporting budgets

Desired

• Previous position held in a sporting organisation or local/state government or council
• Experience in sport, ideally at the State Sporting level

Qualification Requirements

Required

• Appropriate tertiary degree (i.e., sport management or sport development)
• Valid Registration to Work with Vulnerable People

Desired

• Appropriate Masters degree or equivalent