Head of Athletic Performance and Conditioning

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium private health insurance

Life assurance

Generous pension scheme

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head of Athletic Performance and Conditioning to lead elite sports programs in Cape Town. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive training to optimize athlete performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation support within a high-performance culture.

You will manage a team of coaches, collaborate with sports scientists and medical staff, and drive a science-backed approach to athlete development in a dynamic Leisure & Sports

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in athletic performance and conditioning.
• Certification from a recognized body (e.g., CSCS, ASCA).
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee individualized and team athletic performance programs.
• Lead strength and conditioning protocols with injury prevention focus.
• Conduct performance assessments and analyze data to track progress.
• Mentor a team of strength and conditioning coaches.
• Collaborate with sports medicine for athlete health and recovery.
• Stay updated on research in sports science and exercise physiology.
• Educate athletes and coaches on training, nutrition, and recovery.
• Manage department budget and resources.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and ethical standards.
• Contribute to strategic planning of the sports program.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Performance tracking tech

Education

Master's degree in Sports Science

PhD in related field

Tools

Sports technology software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary and highly qualified Head of Athletic Performance and Conditioning to lead their elite sports programs in Cape Town . This critical role involves designing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive training and conditioning programs tailored to optimize the physical capabilities of athletes across various disciplines. You will be responsible for ensuring athletes are prepared to perform at their peak, focusing on injury prevention, strength development, speed enhancement, and overall athletic prowess. The Head of Athletic Performance will manage a team of specialized coaches and liaise closely with sports scientists, medical staff, and coaching departments to create a cohesive and science-backed approach to athlete development. This position demands a leader with exceptional knowledge of sports science, exercise physiology, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of athletic potential within the demanding Leisure & Sports sector. The role is based in our state-of-the-art facilities in Cape Town , offering a dynamic and rewarding career opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage individualized and team-based athletic performance and conditioning programs.
• Oversee strength and conditioning protocols, focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation support.
• Conduct performance assessments and analyze data to track athlete progress and program effectiveness.
• Lead and mentor a team of strength and conditioning coaches, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with sports medicine staff to ensure athlete health, safety, and optimal recovery.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and best practices in sports science, exercise physiology, and athletic training.
• Educate athletes and coaching staff on proper training techniques, nutrition, and recovery strategies.
• Manage the athletic performance department budget and resources effectively.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant sporting regulations and ethical standards.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the overall sports program.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in athletic performance and conditioning, preferably within a professional or elite sports setting.
• Extensive knowledge of biomechanics, physiology, and nutrition relevant to athletic performance.
• Proven ability to design and implement evidence-based training programs for diverse athletic populations.
• Certification from a recognized professional body (e.g., CSCS, ASCA).
• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing high-performing teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with performance tracking technology and software.
• A deep commitment to athlete well-being and ethical coaching practices.
• Knowledge of injury mechanisms and rehabilitation principles.

Benefits

• This role comes with a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with significant performance incentives.
• Our client provides an extensive benefits package, including premium private health insurance, life assurance, and a generous pension scheme.
• Access to ongoing professional development, including international conferences and specialized training, is a key offering.
• Employees can also avail themselves of company-provided wellness programs and discounted access to premier sports facilities.
• This is an opportunity to work with world-class athletes and contribute to a legacy of sporting excellence in Cape Town , within the vibrant Leisure & Sports industry.