This is a full time, fixed term contract starting 1 September 2025 until July 2026.
Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.”
Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive.
The role
Based primarily between Headington Campus and the Oxford Brookes University Boathouse in Cholsey, and reporting to the Men’s Head Rowing Coach, the Assistant Men’s Rowing Coach will play a central role in the planning and delivery of high-quality rowing coaching within the university’s rowing programmes. The post-holder will support the upkeep and operational readiness of the boat fleet, and support student-athletes in achieving their full athletic potential while aligning with the performance objectives of the Boat Club and the Directorate of Sport & Active Wellness. The role will involve close collaboration with the head coaches, sport science practitioners, and other key staff involved in student wellbeing and development.
About the team
Oxford Brookes University Boat Club (OBUBC) is one of the UK's leading university rowing programmes, delivering success at BUCS, Henley Women’s Regatta and Henley Royal Regatta, and at international levels. The coaching team sits within the Directorate of Sport & Active Wellness and is supported by a multidisciplinary team including Strength & Conditioning, Physio, Nutrition, Psychology, and other wellbeing specialists. The wider directorate is committed to delivering a wide ranging student sport programme and activities across a broad spectrum of participation and performance levels, with a focus on innovation, student-centred development, and staff collaboration.
What will I be doing?
● Delivering daily coaching to student-athletes, including water sessions, ergometer training, and land-based conditioning.
● Supporting the technical and tactical development of athletes across a range of experience levels.
● Supporting the upkeep and operational readiness of the Boat Club fleet, including monitoring equipment condition, coordinating basic maintenance, and liaising with external suppliers for servicing and repairs.
● Leading or assisting in the preparation of crews for BUCS competitions, domestic regattas, and international events.
● Monitoring athlete performance and training data in collaboration with the head coaches and sport science support team.
● Maintaining a safe and inclusive training environment, upholding university values and national governing body policies.
● Liaising with other university colleagues and student committee members to support the holistic development of student-athletes.
● Contributing to recruitment and talent ID both domestically and internationally.
What skills do I need?
The full list can be found in the Job Description.
Essential:
● Relevant rowing coaching experience at international level and ‘boatman’/technical knowledge of rowing equipment.
● Strong organisational skills and ability to manage priorities.
Desirable:
● Experience in university club settings.
● British Rowing Senior Club Coach (Level 2) with the ability to obtain within 12 months.
● RYA Level II Powerboat Handling certificate.
● Experience as an athlete or coach using the Peach telemetry system.
About the location
This role is primarily split between being based on our Headington campus and based at the Boathouse in Cholsey, with occasional travel to national/international competitions and training camps. The boathouse is a purpose-built high-performance training venue on the River Thames, around 35 minutes from the main university site in Oxford. Due to the nature of the role, it will require a full-time, in-person presence with early morning, evening, and weekend working patterns standard during term time and competition periods.
Application deadline and Interview dates
Applications close 23:30 on Sunday 31st August 2026. Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 8th September 2025. The default position will be for in-person interviews at our Headington campus, though digital interviews can be discussed. Ideally, the candidate will be available to start the role immediately in mid-September in time for the new semester.
Benefits
As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (approx 5 per year).
We encourage and support hybrid working where the role allows and ensure that you have the necessary equipment to allow you to work flexibly.
We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme with a 19.2% Employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.
We prioritise the well-being of our employees—both physically and mentally, as well as financially. That's why we provide a diverse and comprehensive benefits package to support our team
In addition, all employees have access to:
● Discounted rates for the University sports & gym facilities
● Brookes on-site Nursery.
● Discounted travel options
● TOTUM card discount scheme
● Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles)
● Training and development opportunities
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