But not back in the middle of the paddock barking instructions to keep the Highlanders on track at training.
This time around he will be working away in the background to lay the platform for success.
He has inked a four-year deal and will be responsible for leading the rugby programme. That includes the recruitment and retention of players, supporting the coaching group and mentoring the head coach, Clarke Dermody.
It is not really a new role for Joseph, who will step down as head coach of Japan following this year's Rugby World Cup in France.
His gig with the Brave Blossoms involved keeping track of 40-45 players and managing a staff of around 25 people for the past seven years.
"I’ve got a lot of experience in how to do that. And to do that well you’ve got to have good coaches and I think the coaches here are really good and will have learned a lot from last season," Joseph said.
"It is just about being able to support them in the areas where they need that support."
That will come as a relief to Dermody. Just take a moment to consider his position. He is still making his way as a coach at Super Rugby level and the hero of 2015 pops back up.
Joseph led the Highlanders to their only Super Rugby title eight years ago and then went on to forge an impressive international record with Japan, guiding them to the World Cup quarterfinal in 2019.
It could be a little intimidating for Dermody when Joseph rocks up on day one with some fresh ideas.
But Joseph said he had a good chat to Dermody and the pair are clear in their roles.
"In Derms’ words the club needs help and I have the experience to help.
"We’ve got quality rugby coaches here. Their job is to get the best out of the players and my job is to help with the supply of those players and create a club environment where everyone can excel and reach their potential."
Joseph will be under some pressure as well. He set a high bar during his last stint with the club and some fans will be expecting a quick turnaround.
"All I’ll say is it takes time," Joseph said.
When he took the reins as head coach in 2011 the Highlanders had been struggling and Joseph was not able to bring immediate success. The 2013 team had 11 All Blacks in its ranks but only won three of their 16 games and finished second to last.
The turnaround came the following season with young, hungrier players.
"In 2014 we only had two or three [All Blacks] and we made the playoffs for the first time in 10 or so years and the following year we won it, so it is about getting the balance and the chemistry right."
Highlanders chairman and co-owner Peter Kean can relate to fans wanting immediate success.
"I’m not that patient, but you have to be patient with a role like this," Kean said.
"Clearly we would like to do better in 2024. We can’t hide from the fact we’ve had a tough year.
"But it [success] might not come next season or the season after, but we would be expecting to see sizable change and more success than what we’ve realised, that’s for sure.
"I’m a great believer in having great people around you and that way everybody achieves more, so I think we’re getting the right people in place and Jamie is a big part of that jigsaw."
