FRU advertises Flying Fijians head coach’s job

The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU)has advertised the Flying Fijians head coach’s job. FRU and Mick Byrne parted ways on April 1, 2026 before Senirusi Seruvakula took over as interim head coach.

 The successful candidate will be contracted for 14 months, covering next year’s Rugby World Cup (RWC) in Australia, and will report to the General Manager High Performance Nacani Cawanibuka.

Performance will be judged on results against Tier 1 nations, progress beyond the World Cup pool stage and improvement in Fiji’s World Rugby ranking in 2027.

Other benchmarks include annual international results, squad depth and the number of emerging players established at Test level. Development of Fiji-based coaches and performance staff will also be assessed.

The appointee will lead a world-class high performance programme and work closely with Fiji Rugby’s High-Performance Unit, Fijian Drua, pathway programmes, provincial unions and overseas partners.

Key responsibilities include setting the national team strategy, delivering campaign plans, managing selection and succession planning, and conducting performance reviews.

The role also involves leading an integrated coaching and support team while maintaining standards across analysis, strength and conditioning, sports science, medicine, nutrition and player welfare.

The coach must build a culture driven by excellence, accountability, discipline, in novation and continuous improvement.

They will be expected to identify and develop emerging talent, strengthen squad depth, mentor local coaches and contribute to Fiji Rugby’s coaching systems and frameworks. Strong engagement with the Fijian Drua, provincial unions, domestic stakeholders and overseas clubs will be required. The role also includes representing Fiji Rugby internationally and working with World Rugby, regional bodies and strategic partners.

Essential criteria

Applicants must have proven success at international level or in Super Rugby Pacific, United Rugby Championship (URC), Premiership, Top 14 or equivalent elite competitions.

 Experience leading high-performance teams, preparing for major tournaments and developing coaching staff is required.

Strong leadership, communication and people-management skills are essential, along with the ability to align players and staff around a shared vision.

Cultural awareness and the ability to operate in diverse environments are also required.

Technical requirements

Candidates must have strong knowledge of rugby performance, strategy and game development, along with expertise in talent identification and succession planning.

Experience using performance tools such as Opta, GPS and athlete management systems is required. The role also demands close collaboration with medical and performance staff on player welfare and output, and the ability to sustain a high-performance environment.

RWC coaching experience and exposure to emerging rugby nations or multicultural settings are an advantage.

Applications must be submitted by email. Hard copies will not be accepted.

The vacancy opens today and closes on September 21.