We are recruiting for a new Director of Hockey role for the 2026/27 season onwards.

Purpose
The Director of Hockey will provide strategic and operational leadership of all hockey activity at Reading HC (with input into the Performance Programme dependent on experience) - Seniors, Juniors and Talent Academy - ensuring a coherent pathway from U6 to EHL level. Working closely with Performance Programme Head Coaches to align the club programme with the performance pathway as well as other key areas e.g. coaching, style of play, culture & ethos.Key responsibilities

Strategy & pathway
o In collaboration with Performance leads, design and own the club’s hockey strategy and player pathway (U6–TA–senior performance).
o Maintain a clear “Reading Way” coaching philosophy and game model, with shared principles across all teams.

People leadership
o Line-manage: Head of Talent Development / TA Lead, Head of Juniors, Coaching Development Lead and GK Lead.
o Collaborate with: Senior Performance Head Coaches
o Lead workforce planning: number of coaches, volunteers, managers required per season.
• Programme oversight
o Approve annual training plan (pitch time, schedule) across Seniors, Juniors and TA, balancing performance and participation.
o Oversee selection policies, talent ID, and progression between squads (e.g. juniors to 2s; 2s to 1s).

Quality & standards
o Implement coaching standards, session templates and CPD for all club coaches.
o Ensure compliance with safeguarding, EH frameworks (ClubMark, Talent Academy), and health & safety.

Stakeholder Engagement
o Act as principal liaison with England Hockey, school partners, universities, and other Premier clubs.
o Work with commercial/committee roles to align hockey programme with sponsorship, events and community outreach

Interested candidates should apply with a CV and Cover Letter or Supporting Statement to: Chair@readinghockeyclub.org.uk