Lead Performance Analyst - Elite Cycling Team (Remote)

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Health insurance

Professional development

Home office stipend

Flexible hours

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Performance Analyst to join a remote-based performance department supporting elite endurance athletes. You will oversee data collection, processing, and interpretation to enhance training, race execution, and recovery strategies.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in sports science and data analytics, with 6+ years in performance analysis for cycling, running, or triathlon, plus proficiency with R/Python and visualization tools.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative field related to sports science.
• Minimum 6 years in performance analysis for endurance sports.
• Proficiency in R or Python and data visualization tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead collection, processing and analysis of performance data from training and racing.
• Develop standardized data analysis protocols and reporting for staff.
• Interpret complex datasets to inform fatigue, readiness, and race strategy.
• Collaborate with coaches and scientists to apply findings to plans.
• Use advanced statistics and visualization to communicate insights.
• Stay updated on research and tech in performance analysis.
• Manage performance data systems and databases.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to tool development.

Skills

R

Python

Tableau/Power BI

Data visualization

Statistics

Machine learning

Education

Master's or PhD in Sports Science/Quantitative Field

Tools

TrainingPeaks

WKO

Polar

Garmin

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized professional cycling team, is looking for an exceptional Lead Performance Analyst to join their cutting-edge, remote-based performance department. This role is integral to optimizing athlete performance through advanced data collection, analysis, and interpretation. You will be responsible for leading the performance analysis function, providing critical insights to coaches, sports scientists, and athletes to enhance training, race strategy, and recovery protocols. The ideal candidate is a data-driven expert with a profound understanding of endurance sports physiology and a passion for leveraging technology to achieve peak athletic outcomes. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to elite athletic success from your home base.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the collection, processing, and analysis of performance data from training and racing (e.g., power, heart rate, GPS, biomechanics, physiological testing).
• Develop and implement standardized data analysis protocols and reporting frameworks for athletes, coaches, and support staff.
• Interpret complex datasets to provide actionable insights on athlete fatigue, readiness, performance trends, and strategic race execution.
• Collaborate closely with coaches and sports scientists to integrate performance analysis findings into training plans and race strategies.
• Utilize advanced statistical techniques and data visualization tools to communicate findings effectively.
• Stay current with the latest research and technological advancements in sports performance analysis and endurance sports science.
• Manage and maintain the team's performance data management systems and databases.
• Mentor and guide junior performance analysts or interns as needed.
• Contribute to the development of innovative performance monitoring tools and methodologies.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and security across all performance-related platforms.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Sports Science, Biomechanics, Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in performance analysis, specifically within endurance sports such as cycling, running, or triathlon.
• Demonstrated expertise in data analysis software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS) and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Proficiency with various sports performance data platforms and wearables (e.g., TrainingPeaks, WKO, Polar, Garmin).
• Strong understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and training methodologies relevant to elite cycling.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex data to non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Experience with machine learning or predictive modeling in sports performance is a plus.
• A deep passion for cycling and a commitment to athletic excellence are essential.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and performance incentives tied to team success.
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending major cycling events.
• Home office equipment and technology stipend.
• Flexible working hours and the autonomy of remote work.
• Contribute directly to the success of a world-class professional sports team.
• Travel opportunities to races and training camps as required.