Head of Sports Analytics

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 2,975,000 - 4,628,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical and strategic Head of Sports Analytics to lead our data science initiatives in a remote setting, driving performance improvements across sports disciplines. You will build and manage a team of analysts, develop advanced models, and collaborate with coaching staff and management to inform decision-making and strategy.

You will communicate complex findings clearly to non-technical audiences, shape data-driven strategy, and stay ahead of trends in

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in statistics, data science, CS or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of data analytics experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within sports.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization tools.
• Strong understanding of sports performance metrics and biomechanics.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of sports analytics strategies and frameworks.
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of sports analysts and data scientists.
• Develop advanced predictive models and statistical analyses to optimize player performance and team strategy.
• Collaborate with coaches, scouts, and performance staff to integrate data insights into training and game planning.
• Identify key metrics and develop dashboards for monitoring team and player performance.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in sports analytics and data science.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Data visualization

Team leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's or PhD in Statistics/Data Science/CS

Tools

Python

R

SQL

Tableau

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly analytical and strategic Head of Sports Analytics to lead their data science initiatives in a remote setting. This executive role is responsible for harnessing the power of data to provide actionable insights that drive performance improvements across various sports disciplines. You will build and manage a team of analysts, develop sophisticated analytical models, and collaborate closely with coaching staff and management to inform decision-making. The ideal candidate is a seasoned analytics leader with a deep understanding of sports performance, statistical modeling, and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly to non-technical audiences. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of data-driven strategy in sports.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of sports analytics strategies and frameworks.
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of sports analysts and data scientists.
• Develop advanced predictive models and statistical analyses to optimize player performance and team strategy.
• Collaborate with coaches, scouts, and performance staff to integrate data insights into training and game planning.
• Identify key metrics and develop dashboards for monitoring team and player performance.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in sports analytics and data science.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of experience in data analytics, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within the sports industry.
• Proven expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization tools .
• Strong understanding of sports performance metrics and biomechanics.
• Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills for delivering insights to executive leadership.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and bonus structure.
• Fully remote work opportunity with flexible hours.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and professional development budget.
• Significant influence on data strategy and performance optimization for elite athletes.