But the new Wales coach – who worked with Jenkins on the 2021 British and Irish Lions tour - insists the country’s greatest goalkicker will continue to play a vital role in developing Welsh talent across the regions.
Jenkins, 54, Wales’ record Test points scorer and a long-serving kicking and skills coach, was not part of the summer tour to Japan, with Leigh Halfpenny overseeing kicking duties.
Last week the Welsh Rugby Union stated that Jenkins will remain full-time with the governing body, but focusing on individual player development throughout the men’s game.
Tandy has now confirmed that means Jenkins will work outside of his current coaching group – that includes new temporary appointment Rhys Patchell – for the autumn series.
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The WRU confirmed last week that former fly-half Patchell will join the national set-up as interim skills coach for the autumn campaign, having impressed with his work at the Dragons.
It means for the first time since 2006, Jenkins will not be part of the national squad coaching group at the start of a new campaign.
“Yes, it is a bit of a change,” said Tandy.
“He didn't go on the summer tour, either. Halfers (Leigh Halfpenny) was there and I think it's an opportunity and it's only for this month, for the three boys coming in, where I think they’re going to offer different expertise and different types of energy as well.
“I think it's a great opportunity for them.”
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Over nearly two decades, Jenkins has worked under a series of head coaches and helped to shape generations of Welsh kickers — from Stephen Jones to James Hook, to Halfpenny, to Dan Biggar — with his renowned technical insight and relentless standards.
But the fact that Patchell has been labelled a skills coach, rather than merely a kicking coach, underlines the fact his brief will be broader and more around strategy and tactical input, rather than just technical advice.
Tandy praised Jenkins’ ongoing influence and described his work ethic and character as “unbelievable.”
“Yes, Jenks is still doing lots of work and again, Jenks is an unbelievable coach, an unbelievable human being,” Tandy said.
“He's out and about in the regions, but there is also what he's done to help Patch, Lee Halfpenny and stuff.
“We see Jenks pretty regularly and he's motivated by helping young talent as well. So, we're really lucky to have someone like Jenks as part of the WRU.”
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Tandy insists the transition will be seamless, thanks in large part to Jenkins’ mentorship.
“I've spoken to them at great depth as well. It’s exciting for Patch that Jenks has passed on know-how to him, but he is also shaping in his own way.
“He's been doing a really good job around the Dragons with how he sees the game.
“So, that's been awesome. I think Jenks has played a massive part in it and again, it is a big change from 18 years, but I think it's exciting all the same.”
