About the Role
Our client, a leading name in the Leisure & Sports industry, is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Head of Sports Performance Nutrition to lead their nutrition strategy in Port Elizabeth. This pivotal role involves developing and implementing evidence-based nutritional plans to optimize the performance, recovery, and overall health of elite athletes and sports teams. You will lead a team of nutritionists, collaborate closely with coaches and sports scientists, and stay at the forefront of advancements in sports nutrition science. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of human physiology, sports performance metrics, and the unique nutritional demands of various athletic disciplines. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to athletic excellence and drive innovative nutritional strategies within the Port Elizabeth sporting community, operating under a flexible hybrid work arrangement.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive sports nutrition programs for athletes and teams.
- Conduct nutritional assessments, providing individualized dietary plans to support performance, recovery, and health goals.
- Educate athletes and coaches on the principles of sports nutrition, including hydration, supplementation, and fueling strategies.
- Lead and mentor a team of sports nutritionists, overseeing their professional development and performance.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (coaches, physiotherapists, medical staff) to integrate nutrition into overall athlete care plans.
- Stay current with the latest research and trends in sports nutrition, exercise physiology, and sports science.
- Manage the procurement and inventory of nutritional supplements and related resources.
- Develop protocols for food service and athlete dining to ensure optimal nutritional intake.
- Conduct workshops and presentations on sports nutrition topics for various stakeholders.
Requirements
- Master's degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, or a closely related field with a specialization in Sports Nutrition.
- Registered Dietitian (RD) or equivalent professional credential required.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in sports performance nutrition, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
- Proven experience working with elite athletes and sports teams.
- Extensive knowledge of nutritional strategies for performance enhancement, recovery, and body composition management.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to analyze scientific literature and apply evidence-based practice.
- Experience in managing budgets and resources effectively.
- Familiarity with the sports landscape in Port Elizabeth is beneficial.
- Comfortable working within a hybrid model, balancing on-site consultations with remote planning and analysis.
Benefits
- Competitive salary package and performance incentives.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement savings plan.
- Generous paid time off.
- Professional development opportunities, including funding for conferences and certifications.
- Access to cutting-edge nutrition software and resources.
- The opportunity to work with high-caliber athletes and contribute to their success.
- Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.