Head of Performance Analytics - Sports Science

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

International travel

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Performance Analytics in Cape Town to lead the analytics strategy for elite athletes and teams. You will oversee diverse data streams, develop predictive models, and translate insights into practical applications for coaches and management.

You will manage a team of analysts and work with sports scientists and medical staff, ensuring data integrity and privacy while staying at the forefront of sports analytics technology.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Sports Science, Biomechanics, Data Science, Statistics, or related field.
• 10+ years in sports performance analysis, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive experience with statistical software (R, Python, SPSS) and data viz tools (Tableau, Power BI).
• Proven ability to analyze large datasets and develop predictive models.
• Deep understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sports training.
• Experience with athlete tracking systems (GPS, accelerometers) and physiological monitoring tools.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; strong leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive sports performance analytics strategy.
• Oversee collection, management, and integration of data streams (GPS, HR, biomechanics, training logs).
• Design and conduct statistical analyses to identify KPIs and trends.
• Develop predictive models for performance optimization and injury risk.
• Create data visualizations and reports for coaches, athletes, and management.
• Collaborate with scientists, coaches, and medical staff to translate data into practical applications.
• Stay updated on advancements in sports science and analytics technologies.
• Manage and mentor a team of performance analysts and data scientists.
• Ensure data integrity, security, and privacy compliance.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership.

Skills

Data visualization

Leadership

Statistical analysis

R

Python

SPSS

Tableau

Power BI

GPS tracking

Education

Master's or PhD in Sports Science/related

Tools

R

Python

SPSS

Tableau

Power BI

Job description

About the Role Our client, a globally recognized leader in the sports and leisure industry, is seeking an exceptional Head of Performance Analytics to be based in Cape Town, Western Cape. This critical leadership role will oversee the collection, analysis, and interpretation of performance data for elite athletes and sports teams. The successful candidate will leverage cutting-edge technology and scientific methodologies to provide actionable insights that enhance athletic performance, prevent injuries, and inform strategic decision-making. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of sports science and contribute to the success of top-tier athletic endeavors in a stimulating environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive sports performance analytics strategy.
• Oversee the collection, management, and integration of diverse data streams (e.g., GPS, heart rate, biomechanics, training logs).
• Design and conduct sophisticated statistical analyses to identify key performance indicators and trends.
• Develop predictive models for performance optimization and injury risk assessment.
• Create compelling data visualizations and reports for coaches, athletes, and management.
• Collaborate closely with sports scientists, coaches, and medical staff to translate data into practical applications.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in sports science, data analytics, and relevant technologies.
• Manage and mentor a team of performance analysts and data scientists.
• Ensure data integrity, security, and compliance with relevant privacy regulations.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Sports Science, Biomechanics, Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in sports performance analysis, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity.
• Extensive experience with statistical software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS) and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Proven expertise in analyzing large datasets and developing predictive models.
• Deep understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sports training principles.
• Experience with athlete tracking systems (e.g., GPS, accelerometers) and physiological monitoring tools.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Familiarity with the South African sports landscape is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a demanding environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Generous bonus structure tied to team and organizational success.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology.
• Opportunities for international travel and collaboration.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• Working in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape.