Director of Player Development - Cricket

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Leadership training

Job summary

Placements24, Kimberley-based cricket academy, seeks a Director of Player Development to lead the entire player pathway from junior talent to professional readiness. You will shape coaching strategies, integrate performance analytics, and implement holistic welfare and education support across all age groups.

The role requires strategic leadership, collaboration with national cricket bodies, and oversight of staff, budgets, and performance outcomes to drive long-term success of the academy.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in high-performance coaching within cricket.
• Proven track record in developing players from junior to professional levels.
• Strong knowledge of sport science, biomechanics and performance analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a long-term player development program for all age groups.
• Oversee recruitment and retention of talented young cricketers.
• Develop individualized training plans focusing on technical, tactical, physical and mental aspects.

Skills

High-performance coaching

Player development

Talent identification

Leadership

Budget management

Sports psychology

Communication

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading organization in the Leisure & Sports industry, is seeking a highly experienced and forward-thinking Director of Player Development for its prestigious cricket academy located in Kimberley . This senior position is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the entire player development pathway, from junior talent identification to professional readiness. The Director will be instrumental in implementing innovative coaching strategies, performance analytics, and holistic player support systems. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of cricket coaching, talent management, and sports psychology, coupled with exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills. This role is pivotal in cultivating the next generation of cricketing talent and ensuring the long-term success of the academy.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement a comprehensive, long-term player development program for all age groups within the academy.
• Oversee the identification, recruitment, and retention of talented young cricketers.
• Develop and manage individualized training plans focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude.
• Lead and mentor a team of coaches, strength and conditioning specialists, and support staff.
• Integrate sports science, biomechanics, and performance analysis into the player development framework.
• Ensure a high standard of player welfare, including psychological support and educational guidance.
• Collaborate with national and provincial cricket bodies to align development programs with broader talent pathways.
• Monitor player progress through robust assessment systems and provide regular feedback.
• Manage the budget for the player development department effectively.
• Foster a positive, disciplined, and performance-driven culture within the academy.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in high-performance coaching and player development within cricket, preferably at an academy or national level.
• Relevant coaching qualifications (e.g., Cricket Australia/ICC advanced coaching accreditation).
• Demonstrated success in nurturing and progressing young cricketers through development systems.
• In-depth knowledge of modern cricket techniques, tactical approaches, and player conditioning.
• Strong understanding of sports psychology, biomechanics, and performance analysis.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage teams and budgets.
• Experience in scouting and talent identification.
• A deep passion for cricket and player development is essential.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including weekends.

Benefits

• This prominent role offers a highly competitive salary, generous performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement planning.
• Our client is dedicated to continuous professional development, offering opportunities for advanced coaching courses, international study tours, and leadership training.
• The work environment is dynamic, focused, and deeply committed to excellence within the Leisure & Sports sector.

This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of cricket talent in Kimberley and contribute significantly to the sport's growth.