Location: Sunderland
Closing Date: Noon, Monday 30th June 2025
City of Sunderland ASC is looking for a dynamic and forward-thinking Head of Swimming and Performance Squad Coach to lead the delivery and strategic development of its performance programme. They are looking for a passionate and experienced coach who shares our values of excellence, wellbeing, integrity, and teamwork.
About the Role:
- Full-time (permanent) employment — salary: £31,000 per annum
- Start Date: To be agreed following a successful appointment
- Responsible for: Leading the Performance Squad and all other squad coaches
- Develop and oversee a progressive annual training programme, delivering high-calibre sessions in a motivating, athlete-centred environment
- Support and guide the team of coaches and the land training coach
- Provide strong, visible leadership, putting swimmer welfare at the heart of everything they do
- Engage with Swim England, the North East Region, and other stakeholders to aid swimmer and coach progression
- Support the continued growth and retention of the clubs’ membership
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead delivery and progression for the Performance Squad
- Develop annual training plans for all squads in consultation with their respective coaches
- Provide strong leadership, mentoring, and guidance to the team of coaches
- Support the implementation of athlete-centric practices, with an emphasis on safeguarding and mental health
- Develop strong relationships with stakeholders and promote the clubs’ profile in the community
- Provide reports to the Club Chair and Committee, and oversee administration related to competition entries, attendance, training logs, and progression
- Align all activity with the clubs’ long-term goals and values
The Ideal Candidate Will:
- Hold minimum Swim England Level 2 Swimming Coach (or equivalent)
- Have at least two years’ experience in a similar role or as a competitive swimmer
- Provide a track record of developing swimmers to county, regional, or national standard
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and an ability to collaborate across the team and with stakeholders
- Be passionate, motivated, and enthusiastic about developing swimmers and growing the sport
- Align their approach with the clubs’ values and culture — safeguarding, fairness, inclusivity, and the health and wellbeing of all involved
- Be well-organised and able to manage their time alongside delivering strong, technical sessions
- Hold a UK driving licence or be able to travel to training sessions, competitions, and meetings as required
- Be a strong team player — dependable, reliable, and a role model to swimmers, colleagues, and parents
Application Process:
To apply, please submit:
- A cover letter (max 2 sides A4, Arial 12pt) outlining how you meet the requirements and what you will bring to this role
- An up-to-date CV (max 2 sides A4)
Please send your application, marked Private and Confidential, to chair@cityofsunderlandasc.co.uk.
Shortlisted candidates will be notified by close of play on Tuesday 8th July 2025.
Interviews are currently planned to take place on Tuesday 15th July 2025.
If you have not heard from us by then, your application will have been unsuccessful.
If you have any questions about the role or application process, please contact the current Head of Swimming, Tom Harforth, at: tomharforth@cityofsunderlandasc.co.uk.
Full information is available in the document below
