Head of Sports Science & Medicine

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 109,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Medical aid

Performance-based bonus

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head of Sports Science & Medicine for a premier sports institute in Upington, Northern Cape. You will lead a multidisciplinary team delivering cutting-edge performance support to optimize athlete health and performance, while shaping departmental strategy and ensuring ethical practice.

You will manage budgets, drive innovation, and collaborate with coaches and external partners to advance research and athlete development in elite sport.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine, or closely related field.
• 8+ years in high-performance sport with leadership in sports science/medicine.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary performance teams and Budget management experience.
• Strong communication and stakeholder influence at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Sports Science & Medicine department.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of sports scientists, physiotherapists, doctors, and support staff.
• Oversee services including strength and conditioning, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and injury prevention/management.
• Ensure evidence-based practice and ethical standards across activities.
• Collaborate with head coaches to integrate sport science into athlete development programs.
• Manage department budget, resources, and operational efficiency.
• Oversee research initiatives and adoption of new technologies/methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with national and international sports regulations and standards.
• Foster learning and collaboration within the team and with external partners.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Team mentorship

Stakeholder influence

Research literacy

Education

PhD or MSc in Sports Science/related

Tools

Athlete monitoring systems

Performance analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier multi-disciplinary sports institute, is seeking an exceptional and forward-thinking Head of Sports Science & Medicine to lead their comprehensive performance support services in Upington, Northern Cape . This senior leadership position is responsible for the strategic direction, operational management, and delivery of cutting-edge sports science and medical programs designed to optimize athlete health, performance, and well-being. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in leading multidisciplinary teams, a deep understanding of various sports science disciplines, and a proven ability to translate scientific research into practical application. You will play a critical role in fostering an environment of excellence and innovation within the institute's performance support unit.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Sports Science & Medicine department, aligning with the institute's overall objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sports scientists, physiotherapists, doctors, and other performance support staff.
• Oversee the provision of a wide range of services, including strength and conditioning, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and injury prevention/management.
• Ensure the highest standards of evidence-based practice and ethical conduct across all departmental activities.
• Collaborate closely with head coaches and technical staff to integrate sports science support into athlete development programs.
• Manage the department's budget, resource allocation, and operational efficiency.
• Oversee research initiatives and the implementation of new technologies and methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international sports regulations and standards.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning, professional development, and collaboration within the team.
• Act as a key liaison with external partners, including sports federations, medical institutions, and research bodies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine, or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience (8+ years) in high-performance sport, with significant leadership and management experience within a sports science and medicine setting.
• Proven track record in leading and developing multidisciplinary performance support teams.
• Broad expertise across multiple disciplines of sports science and medicine.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans and manage budgets effectively.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong understanding of research methodologies and scientific literature.
• Experience with athlete monitoring systems and performance analysis tools.
• Commitment to maintaining professional registration and continuing education.
• Passion for enhancing athlete performance and well-being in the context of elite sport in Upington, Northern Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a substantial performance-based bonus. Opportunities for international travel, extensive professional development, and access to world-class facilities are provided. This leadership role offers the chance to make a significant impact on the performance and health of elite athletes within a respected sporting institution.