Head of Sports Science & Performance Analytics

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Professional development & conferences

Cutting-edge sport science equipment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Sports Science & Performance Analytics in Port Elizabeth to guide the club's sports science agenda, analytics, and performance optimization. You will lead a multidisciplinary team, collaborate with coaches, and apply advanced data insights to elevate athlete performance and well-being.

The role demands a deep grounding in exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, injury prevention, and cutting-edge analytics, with a strong track record in professional sport

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Data Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years in a sports science or performance analysis role at professional or elite level.
• Proven leadership of a team of sports science and performance staff.
• Expertise in data analytics software and performance monitoring technologies.
• Strong understanding of physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury management for athletes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex data into practical insights for coaches and athletes.
• Experience in South African sports environment is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive sports science strategy to maximize athlete performance, health, and longevity.
• Oversee collection, analysis, and interpretation of performance data from GPS, HR monitors, video, etc.
• Integrate sports science into daily training, recovery, and nutrition programs in Port Elizabeth.
• Collaborate with coaching staff to provide data-driven insights for player development and tactics.
• Lead and mentor a team of sports scientists, performance analysts, and athletic trainers.
• Stay abreast of latest advances in sports science, performance tech and analytics.
• Develop robust injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols.
• Manage sports science budget and technology investments.
• Communicate findings clearly to coaching staff, management, and athletes across the Eastern Cape.

Skills

Team leadership

Data analytics

Sports science

Communication

Problem solving

Travel flexibility

Education

Master's or PhD in Sports Science/related field

Tools

GPS analytics tools

Heart rate monitors

Video analysis systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading professional sports franchise based in Port Elizabeth, is seeking to appoint a highly qualified and experienced Head of Sports Science & Performance Analytics. This critical role will be responsible for the strategic direction and day-to-day management of the club's sports science program, data analytics, and performance optimization initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, injury prevention, and the application of advanced data analytics to enhance athlete performance and well-being. You will lead a team of specialists, collaborate closely with coaching staff, and utilize cutting-edge technology to drive performance gains for our athletes. This is a pivotal position within the club's high-performance structure, based in the scenic coastal city of Port Elizabeth. We are looking for an innovator who can translate complex data into actionable insights to elevate our athletes and teams in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive sports science strategy to maximize athlete performance, health, and longevity.
• Oversee the collection, analysis, and interpretation of performance data from various sources (GPS, heart rate monitors, video analysis, etc.).
• Lead the integration of sports science principles into daily training, recovery, and nutrition programs in Port Elizabeth.
• Collaborate with coaching staff to provide data-driven insights and recommendations for player development and tactical strategies.
• Manage and mentor a team of sports scientists, performance analysts, and athletic trainers.
• Conduct research and stay abreast of the latest advancements in sports science, performance technology, and analytics.
• Develop and implement robust injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols.
• Manage the sports science budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and technology investments.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations effectively to coaching staff, management, and athletes in the Eastern Cape.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Data Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in a sports science or performance analysis role within professional or elite sports.
• Proven experience in managing and leading a team of sports science and performance staff.
• Expertise in various data analytics software and performance monitoring technologies.
• Strong understanding of physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury management relevant to athletes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex data into practical, actionable insights for coaches and athletes.
• Experience in the South African sports environment is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required in Port Elizabeth.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance-related bonuses.
• Access to cutting-edge sports science equipment and technology is provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending international conferences and workshops, are supported.
• Join a dynamic and ambitious team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of athletic performance in Port Elizabeth.
• Be part of shaping the future of elite sports in the Eastern Cape.