Director of Sports Science & Innovation

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 211,000 - 338,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Director of Sports Science & Innovation to lead a multidisciplinary team and drive strategic research initiatives in the Leisure & Sports sector. The role focuses on integrating physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and psychology to enhance athletic performance and well-being.

You will oversee projects, mentor researchers, and collaborate with coaches to translate findings into training strategies.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in Sports Science or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of sports science research and leadership experience.
• Proven ability to design and conduct research studies.
• Expertise across domains such as physiology, performance analysis, and nutrition.
• Experience mentoring a team of scientific professionals.
• Strong ability to translate science into practical training and performance strategies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and scientific writing skills.
• Experience with research grants and funding applications is advantageous.
• Hybrid work model based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for sports science and innovation within the organization.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of sports science professionals.
• Oversee research projects focused on optimizing athletic performance, injury prevention, and recovery.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and methodologies to support athletes and coaches.
• Collaborate with coaching staff to translate scientific findings into actionable training and performance strategies.
• Manage the sports science budget and secure funding for research initiatives.
• Ensure ethical conduct of research and adherence to best practices in sports science.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and trends in the global Leisure & Sports industry.
• Publish research findings and present at scientific conferences as appropriate.

Skills

Leadership

Research design

Sports science

Communication

Education

PhD in Sports Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading institution in the Leisure & Sports arena, is seeking a visionary Director of Sports Science & Innovation. This senior leadership role, based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA , will drive the integration of cutting-edge scientific research and innovative technologies to enhance athletic performance and well-being. You will lead a team of specialists in areas such as physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and sports psychology, fostering a culture of continuous learning and discovery. The ideal candidate possesses a strong academic background in sports science, extensive research experience, and a proven ability to translate scientific insights into practical applications that benefit athletes. This position operates on a hybrid model, blending strategic planning and research with on-site engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for sports science and innovation within the organization.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of sports science professionals.
• Oversee research projects focused on optimizing athletic performance, injury prevention, and recovery.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and methodologies to support athletes and coaches.
• Collaborate with coaching staff to translate scientific findings into actionable training and performance strategies.
• Manage the sports science budget and secure funding for research initiatives.
• Ensure ethical conduct of research and adherence to best practices in sports science.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and trends in the global Leisure & Sports industry.
• Publish research findings and present at scientific conferences as appropriate.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in sports science research and application, with a proven track record of leadership.
• Extensive experience in designing and conducting research studies.
• Expertise in multiple domains of sports science (e.g., physiology, performance analysis, nutrition).
• Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor a team of scientific professionals.
• Strong understanding of the practical application of sports science in the Leisure & Sports context.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and scientific writing skills.
• Experience with research grants and funding applications is advantageous.
• Comfortable working in a hybrid model in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA .

Benefits

This role offers a competitive executive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. You will have the opportunity to lead innovation in sports science within the Leisure & Sports sector, working from our facilities in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA , with the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement. Contribute to the advancement of athletic performance and research in a stimulating environment.