Rugby Operations Lead

Plans, coordinates and supports the delivery of critical rugby operations functions, including Match Management, Match Officials, Anti-Doping, Disciplinary & Integrity and Games Systems. Reporting to the Senior Rugby Operations Manager, it works closely with World Rugby, Rugby Australia, Member Unions, venue teams, suppliers and internal functional areas to support operational readiness for all 52 tournament matches. It develops operational plans, manuals, policies and procedures to ensure delivery meets World Rugby standards, the Laws of the Game and player welfare requirements.

• Coordinate the planning and delivery of Rugby Operations activities across Match Management, Match Officials, Anti-Doping, Disciplinary & Integrity and Games Systems to support the successful delivery of Men's Rugby World Cup 2027.
• Develop and maintain operational documentation, including manuals, policies, procedures, run sheets, operational plans and contingency plans to support tournament readiness.
• Ensure all Rugby Operations plans and processes align with World Rugby Laws, Regulations, best practice standards and player welfare requirements.
• Partner with Tournament Operations, Medical, Match Officials, Team Services and World Rugby functional teams to deliver high-quality team environments, match-day operations and venue readiness activities.
• Build and manage relationships with key stakeholders, including World Rugby, Rugby Australia, Member Unions, suppliers and contractors, ensuring operational requirements are integrated into planning and delivery.
• Track progress against tournament milestones, support testing and readiness programmes, attend venue site visits, and identify and mitigate risks to ensure deliverables are achieved on time and to the required standard.

• Minimum two years' experience in rugby operations, major sporting events, tournaments or a similar high-performance environment, with exposure to rugby union or rugby league operations essential.
• Working knowledge of the international rugby landscape, including the Laws of the Game, competition regulations and operational requirements for elite-level rugby events.
• Strong planning, organisational and project coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, track milestones and deliver outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships and collaborate effectively with governing bodies, venues, suppliers, contractors and cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated administrative capability and attention to detail, including experience developing operational documents, manuals, procedures, reports, presentations and planning materials.
• Proactive, adaptable and resilient, with strong problem-solving skills, the ability to work autonomously, remain calm under pressure, and contribute positively to a high-performing team culture.
• Flexibility to travel as required, and willingness to work outside standard business hours, including evenings and weekends, to support activities and tournament delivery.
• Ability to obtain own unlimited working rights in Australia.

• Full-time fixed-term contract from February 2027 to November 2027.
• Hybrid work model with four days per week in the office (Monday to Thursday), transitioning to full-time office working as tournament delivery approaches.
• Modern Sydney CBD headquarters opposite Hyde Park, a short walk from Town Hall Station and surrounded by cafés, restaurants and public transport.

• Fixed-term contract offering unique exposure to the delivery of a world-class sporting event.
• Weekly fresh fruit, wellbeing initiatives and regular Lunch & Learn sessions designed to support personal and professional growth.
• On-site showers, fresh towels and premium Dyson hair tools to help refresh and recharge throughout the day.
• Collaborative and social workplace with regular team events, celebrations and weekly catch-ups that recognise success and foster connection.
• Opportunity to play a key role in delivering Men's Rugby World Cup 2027 and help create a lasting legacy for rugby in Australia.