Dressage-News

Sept. 6, 2027

United States Equestrian is seeking a technical advisor to lead dressage to include the Paris and Los Angeles Olympics.

The announcement by the federation did not specify the nationality or location for the position.

It became vacant with the resignation of Debbie McDonald earlier this year after being deeply involved in the most successful period of American dressage including silver medals at the Tokyo Olympics and the 2018 World Equestrian Games.

Applicants are expected to present a draft plan and “vision for further sustainable international success, including World and Olympic Games level, for the US
dressage team as part of the interview process.”

Core requirements for the post as specified by US Equestrian:

• Work with the Dressage Managing Director, the USEF Dressage Program Pathway Advisor, and the Dressage Sport Committee and its working groups in development of the Dressage Pathway, programs and systems that support a comprehensive plan for sustainable international success, including world and Olympic Games levels.

• Foster a positive, collaborative, and success driven environment amongst team members, including athletes, personal trainers, veterinarians, farriers, support staff and USEF at international competitions, Games and Championships.

• Work with personal coaches to ensure Elite and Pre-Elite athletes are maintaining preparedness for major Games and Championships, including communicating with athletes and personal coaches about
any concerns or areas of improvement within their training program and/or competition planning.

• Provide leadership, direction, and motivation to athletes in contention for selection to any senior US Dressage Teams through LA 2028 which will include Elite Program Members, Pre-Elite Listed Athletes as well as possible Development athletes.

• Carry out or lead on the appointment of the chef d’equipe at the Olympic, World Championships, Pan American Games and Nations Cups.

• Lead or oversee setting and reviewing of targets and key performance indicators for the athletes in the Dressage Elite Program and Pre-Elite List and be available for in-person training.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the landscape of dressage within the US. Including the competition calendar, current USEF dressage programs, coaches, staff and committees.

• Develop and manage delivery of coach support to the Elite level athletes and a system for communicating with coaches and reviewing the progress of athletes including results analysis. Personally deliver coaching to athletes as needed.

• Develop and implement a stakeholder communication plan in partnership with the managing director of dressage.

• Develop and implement a structure and methodology for tracking progress of athletes and horses. Analyze and present an annual report, with six-monthly updates, on the strengths, weaknesses and
opportunities of the current US Dressage Team and athlete/horse partnerships.

• Advise on appointment of coaches to support specific programs.

• Assist with securing US invitations to international events and planning of tours.

• Advise on the appointment and use of equine and human Safe Sport programs.

Applications are due by Sept. 25, 2023