It is with great excitement that we can announce our new career pathway initiative which looks to enhance our current offering to new and existing players. The pathway aims to support players from our entry point at Academy level, all the way through to the 1st XV team (one of the Top 35 clubs in the country).
As a club, we have always found creative ways in which to source employment for our playing group. However, this new strategy looks to build on current relationships with our corporate partners and provide a structured approach which aims to support the players in their careers outside of rugby. We have a wealth of industry leaders located in the city and we are enthused by the prospect of these businesses offering tailored mentoring and support to our players.
We have already gained considerable support from both Further and Higher Educational establishments as we look to support our Academy students and younger members of the club in gaining relevant qualifications.
A number of our corporate partners have endorsed the ‘Careers Pathway’ initiative, along with global pharmaceutical firm, Astra Zeneca. AZ will initially offer mentor support to players, along with career guidance. AZ run various programs including their ‘Early Talent’ program and Under and Post Graduate programs.
Chairman Rob Dean commented ‘Since Richie took on the full-time role as our Director of Rugby one key area of focus has been to grow our links with Cambridge businesses which can offer support and opportunities to younger players who are looking to start their careers. Having AZ on board with us is a very exciting development and I am very pleased that we can continue our relationship with Shaun who has been very supportive of the club and our ambitions since arriving in Cambridge.’
Shaun Grady SVP Business Development at AstraZeneca said: 'Since relocating our headquarters to Cambridge over five years ago now, we have been involved in a range of mentoring activities with schools, the University, entrepreneurs and start–ups. As well as supporting the eco-system across the region, this has also provided AZ people with the opportunity to develop new skills in new settings. We have been really impressed by the ambition Richie and Rob have to attract talent to Cambridge Rugby Club and to develop people during their time with the Club and beyond. We are really pleased that AstraZeneca will be a partner to play a role to help fulfil that ambition.'
