Elite Performance Nutritionist (Hybrid) For Athletes

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24, East London, is seeking a Head of Sports Science and Medicine to lead a multidisciplinary team in delivering cutting-edge athlete care and performance programs. The role focuses on strategy, operational management, and evidence-based practice in high-performance sport.

You will drive integration across strength and conditioning, nutrition, injury management, psychology, and analytics, while collaborating with coaches to optimize outcomes.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine, or related field.
• 10+ years in sports science/medicine within elite sports, with at least 5 years in leadership.
• Proven track record in high-performance support systems.
• Expertise across S&C, injury management, performance analytics.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience in managing budgets and complex projects.
• Ability to foster collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Professional accreditation with relevant national or international bodies.
• Commitment to CPD and evidence-based practice.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic direction and operational management of the Sports Science and Medicine department.
• Oversee integrated services including strength and conditioning, injury prevention, rehabilitation, nutrition, and psychology.
• Develop and implement evidence-based protocols to enhance performance and reduce injuries.
• Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
• Collaborate with coaching staff to align science support with athlete goals.
• Oversee athlete screening, monitoring, and data-driven training decisions.
• Maintain high standards of ethics, practice, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage department budget and resource allocation.

Education

PhD or Master's in Sports Science/Exercise Physiology/Sports Medicine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading sports organization in East London, Eastern Cape, is looking for an exceptional leader to fill the role of Head of Sports Science and Medicine. This senior position is responsible for developing and implementing cutting-edge strategies in sports science, sports medicine, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and psychology to optimize athlete performance and well-being. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in a high-performance environment, strong leadership qualities, and a passion for evidence-based practice. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of specialists, foster a culture of excellence, and ensure that our athletes receive world-class support. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of athlete care and performance within a respected organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic direction and operational management of the Sports Science and Medicine department.
• Oversee the provision of integrated services including strength and conditioning, injury prevention, rehabilitation, nutrition, and sports psychology.
• Develop and implement evidence-based protocols and programs to enhance athlete performance and reduce injury risk.
• Manage and mentor a team of highly skilled sports scientists, physiotherapists, athletic trainers, and other specialists.
• Collaborate closely with coaching staff to align sports science support with team and individual athlete goals.
• Oversee athlete screening, monitoring, and data analysis to inform training and recovery strategies.
• Ensure the highest standards of ethical conduct, professional practice, and compliance with relevant regulations.
• Manage the department's budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and optimal return on investment.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and research in sports science and medicine, integrating innovations into practice.
• Promote a holistic approach to athlete health, well-being, and performance.

Requirements

• A PhD or Master's degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in sports science and medicine within elite sports, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Proven track record of success in developing and implementing high-performance support systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple domains of sports science and medicine (e.g., S&C, injury management, performance analytics).
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience in managing budgets and complex projects.
• Ability to foster collaboration and build strong working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Professional accreditation with relevant national or international bodies.
• A commitment to continuous professional development and evidence-based practice.

Benefits

This executive role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including premium medical aid and a generous retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and engagement with international sports science communities. Our client provides a challenging and rewarding work environment in East London, where you can make a significant impact on the careers of elite athletes. The hybrid work model supports a balance between strategic planning, team leadership, and hands-on involvement in athlete support.