Director of Youth Development

CHIEF OPERATIONS / COMPETITIONS OFFICERMajor League Rugby is a professional sports league representing the highest level of rugby competition in North America. MLR prides itself in fostering intense, high-stakes competition while bringing together a passionate community built on the values of respect, inclusivity, and tradition. Matches are televised on Fox Sports as well as local market platforms, and its OTT Platform, The Rugby Network which offers fans the ability to stream select MLR matches live, along with Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Allianz Women’s Premiership Rugby, and other international rugby content.

POSITION SUMMARYThe Chief Operations and Competition Officer will lead all activities related to MLR competitions including: competition management; referees; player personnel management; medical protocols; league high performance initiatives, including joint initiatives with the governing body(ies); and grassroots development initiatives. In addition to overseeing the day to day management of MLR competition, the individual will be the operational lead for MLR with primary responsibility for managing and implementing processes across all day to day operational matters within MLR. With the CEO and CCO this individual will be a key member of the MLR executive team collectively responsible for executing against all aspects of the MLR business.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESOperational LeadershipCollaborate with the Board of Governors (BoG) and the Executive Management Team (EMT) to set and drive the organizational vision and mission, corporate strategy, and hiring needs to execute the highest level of rugby competition in North AmericaWith CEO and CCO, report regularly to the MLR Executive Committee and Board of GovernorsEvaluate existing business processes including HR, IT, Finance, Legal and help identify opportunities for greater operational output to align with the short- and long-term organizational strategy developed in tandem with the EMTStrategically manage and coordinate employee output from different departments and locations to ensure efficiencyWith the Director of Finance, oversee annual budgeting, financial procedures and policies

Competition ManagementOversight of MLR’s competition department including:Primary management of all competition related staff Ensure league wide adherence to league rules and policies, and World Rugby (WR) laws and regulations.Constant evaluation of existing league wide rules and policies and conduct annual review to ensure MLR is evolving to the domestic and global trends and needs of the gameWorking with the MLR Medical Director to develop league wide protocols and ensure the compliance of all MLR medical policies. With competitions department staff, team and stadium contacts oversee the development of MLR annual competition schedule. Manage disciplinary protocols in coordination with MLR disciplinary rules and in accordance with WR laws and regulations.In coordination with the Director of Competitions, oversight of the match official management, assignment, and development;Overall oversight of team compliance with MLR Rules and regulations

Player Personnel ManagementWork closely with the human resources department on all elements of player personnel management and administration including: player contracting visa / immigration processespayroll managementworkers compensation and risk managementadherence to off-field disciplinary processesconsistent application of league rules and procedures Review all off-field disciplinary matters and recommend appropriate remediation Governing Body RelationshipFoster collaborative relationships with governing bodies including USAR, and WR to maintain alignment and drive strategic initiatives. Primary liaison between MLR and governing bodies on high performance and compliance issues.Collaborate closely with governing bodies to develop and implement policies, procedures and initiatives that promote the growth, integrity, and sustainability of rugby at all levels.

Grassroots Program and Youth InitiativesWith MLR Director of Youth Development, support the pathway efforts inclusive of academy teams, MLR Grassroots, and community development programs. Support MLR relationship with the nonprofit Imagine Rugby program. Support the Director of Youth Development in his efforts to grow Rugby across North America.

Core competenciesAbility to be self sufficient and drive organizational excellenceAbility to successfully manage several projects simultaneouslyProven track record of working with diverse stakeholders and building successful win/win working relationshipsExcellent interpersonal and personnel management skillsetExceptional organizational skills with high attention to detail with regards to work productAbility to work effectively under pressure in a multi-dimensional fast paced environmentWillingness to take ownership and be held accountableAbility to add to a positive working culture and support teammatesStrategic capabilities and natural problem solverHigh level competition management experience knowledge of and / or experience in professional or international Rugby a plus;A willingness to challenge and be challenged, able to listen;Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with the public, partners and league members

QUALIFICATIONSMinimum of a bachelor’s degree in business, sports management, operations or related field.Minimum fifteen years full-time experience in managing the operations of a sports organization, business or related field. Familiarity with the sport and business of rugby, both in the U.S. and internationally, preferred.If not a U.S. citizen, it is essential that individual is willing to relocate and eligible for a valid work visa Proven experience and success at senior management level, managing teams and reporting to a board preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONLocated in Dallas or Salt Lake City preferredDuring the MLR season this role requires extensive travel over weekends in the United States primarily

TO APPLYPlease send your resume and cover letter to applications@usmlr.com