Black Ferns Mental Performance Coach

New Zealand Rugby is seeking an experienced Mental Performance Coach to join the Black Ferns, one of the world’s premier rugby teams.

In this role, you will lead and evolve the team’s mental performance programme — equipping players and management with best-practice strategies that enhance both performance and well-being. Your work will span individual player support, education in high-pressure performance, and overseeing mental performance delivery across Performance Hub programmes. 

Working closely with coaching and performance staff, you’ll bring an integrated, athlete-centred approach to everything you do.

What you’ll bring:
•    Proven experience in a high-performance sports environment (is international experience /national team experience preferred)?
•    Relevant qualifications in psychology — a postgraduate degree is preferred
•    The ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams
•    A track record of making a measurable impact on athlete performance and culture

This is a rare opportunity to shape the mental edge of a world-class team and contribute directly to the continued success of the Black Ferns and New Zealand Rugby!

•    A world leading high performance opportunity

•    Challenging, rewarding and fun work environment

•    Contribute to the success of our Teams in Black

About Us 

At NZR we love what we do, we work hard and have fun! You’ll be joining a team of awesome people who are passionate about the game and each other, and you’ll be backed with support to thrive in your role. We know that life isn’t all about work, so we are open to flexible working options.

 
We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to improving our cultural responsiveness. We embrace and respect each other’s values and we are so proud to be Rainbow Tick certified. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life. 

Apply Now 

If you are looking to join a fantastic group of people and think you have what it takes, then don’t delay, submit your CV and cover letter now! Don’t wait until the closing date to apply as we will be reviewing applications as we go.

>> Applications close at 5:00pm, Friday 8 May 2026

>> For a copy of the position description, click here

>> To be considered for this position you must be legally entitled to work in Aotearoa New Zealand and obtain a clear MOJ check

Please note, this is not a full-time role. Contract dates for this role are 25th May 2026 - 31 December 2027.  The specific assembly dates and detail will be discussed with the shortlisted applicants.