First Team Lead Physiotherapist

St Helens, Merseyside, England, United Kingdom

St Helens R.F.C. has a proud heritage as one of the UK's premier rugby league clubs, combining elite performance culture with strong values and community roots. Joining our medical team means working within a high-performance environment where innovation, collaboration and athlete care are central.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced physiotherapist to take lead on the assessment, treatment and ongoing management of First Team players. You will play a central role in the delivery of rehabilitation and return-to-play programmes, working collaboratively within the multidisciplinary team. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication skills, support innovation, challenge and improve current practice, and deliver a high-quality, caring service to our players.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of all First Team player injuries.
• Design, deliver and oversee individualised rehabilitation programmes, progressing players from early injury management through to full return to training and competition.
• Coordinate and lead the return-to-play process, ensuring alignment between medical, performance and coaching staff.
• Communicate clearly and consistently with players, coaching staff and the multidisciplinary team, providing structured progress updates and clear expectations around timelines.
• Support innovation within the Medical & Performance department by contributing to continuous improvement, reviewing current practices and introducing evidence-based approaches.
• Challenge practice appropriately and drive high standards across the department, promoting excellence in player care and clinical delivery.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with players, demonstrating a caring and supportive approach throughout injury and rehabilitation.
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Medical & Innovation, Head of Performance, Performance Physiotherapists and wider MDT to ensure cohesive and coordinated service delivery.
• Maintain high-quality clinical documentation and contribute to data tracking, audit, and case reviews that support departmental learning.
• Provide leadership, guidance and mentorship to physiotherapy colleagues, junior staff, students and interns.
• Qualified physiotherapist (BSc/MSc) with both CSP and HCPC registration.
• Must have current IMMOFP (or equivalent) pitch side trauma qualification.
• Post-graduate full-time experience in professional sport(s).
• Proven ability to lead on the management and treatment with professional athletes and strong record with rehabilitation process of players and return to play protocols.
• Demonstrable experience collaborating within an interdisciplinary high-performance environment (medical, sport science, S&C, coaching).
• Strong interpersonal skills: able to manage, mentor and support physiotherapy staff, collaborate across departments, and build credible relationships at all levels (players, coaches, medical team).
• Excellent communication skills: able to explain complex clinical decisions in clear, accessible language, and deliver updates to coaching and performance staff with clarity and professionalism.
• Caring, athlete-centric approach: committed to delivering optimal athlete welfare, recognising the individual needs of players, and promoting a positive, supportive environment.
• Evidence-informed mindset: keep current with sports injury research, contribute to continuous improvement of protocols and rehabilitation strategies.

What We Offer

• The chance to work within a high performance environment which upholds high standards and a strong reputation for success and innovation.
• A dynamic multidisciplinary environment where your voice matters and you can help shape the future of injury management and player care.
• Opportunities for professional growth, education and involvement in innovative rehabilitation and performance practices.
• Competitive salary and benefits (up to £45,000) including season tickets, club privileges and ongoing career development.

How to apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and fit for the role by email to Jonathan Abram.

Applications must be submitted by 21st November 2025 at 5pm (UK).

Derby, City of Derby, England, United Kingdom