The 2008–09 Ulster Rugby season was Ulster's 15th season since the advent of professionalism in rugby union, and their only full season under head coach Matt Williams. David Humphreys, who retired at the end of last season, was appointed to the newly created role of operations director, reporting to chief executive Michael Reid. Peter Sharp joined as defence coach in August 2008. Former Ulster players Jonathan Bell and Niall Malone joined the academy as Elite Player Development Officers.