Lead Performance Analyst - Professional Rugby

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid & retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Access to cutting-edge analytics tech

Team-oriented high-performance culture

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Performance Analyst for a top rugby union based in Port Elizabeth. You will drive data-driven decisions through statistical analysis, video breakdown, and strategic insights, collaborating with coaches, players, and sport science staff.

You will build advanced analytics frameworks, manage performance databases, and support opposition analysis and player development, while travelling with the team when required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a sports science or analytics field.
• Minimum 5 years as a performance analyst in professional sports.
• Proficiency in Hudl, Sportscode, and data visualization tools.
• Strong understanding of rugby union tactics and game dynamics.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed statistical and video analysis of team and individual player performance.
• Provide comprehensive opposition analysis reports to inform strategy.
• Develop and maintain performance databases and tracking systems.
• Collaborate with coaches to set benchmarks and track progress.
• Use analytics software to extract actionable insights from data.
• Present findings clearly to coaches, players, and management.
• Stay updated with trends in sports performance analytics.
• Assist in scouting and recruitment by analyzing potential players.
• Develop individual player improvement plans based on data.

Skills

Data visualization

Statistical analysis

Sports analytics

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Hudl

Sportscode

Data visualization tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly competitive professional rugby union based in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA**, is looking for an innovative and data-driven Lead Performance Analyst. This role is central to enhancing the team's performance through in-depth statistical analysis, video breakdown, and strategic insights. The Lead Performance Analyst will work closely with the coaching staff, players, and sports science team to identify strengths, weaknesses, and key performance indicators. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing advanced analytical frameworks to support tactical decision‑making, opposition analysis, and individual player development. Based in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA**, this position requires a meticulous individual with a profound understanding of rugby union and a strong proficiency in data analytics tools and techniques. You will be at the forefront of utilizing technology and data to gain a competitive edge in the demanding world of professional rugby. This is a challenging yet rewarding role for a dedicated performance expert aiming to contribute to the success of a top‑tier sporting organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed statistical and video analysis of team and individual player performance during matches and training sessions.
• Provide comprehensive opposition analysis reports to the coaching staff to inform game strategy in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA**.
• Develop and maintain performance databases and tracking systems.
• Collaborate with coaches to set performance benchmarks and track progress against key objectives.
• Utilize advanced analytics software and tools to extract actionable insights from performance data.
• Present findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to coaches, players, and management.
• Stay current with the latest trends and technologies in sports performance analysis.
• Assist in the scouting and recruitment process by analyzing potential new players.
• Contribute to the development of individual player improvement plans based on performance data.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Science, Performance Analysis, Statistics, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Performance Analyst in a professional sports environment, preferably rugby union.
• Proficiency in sports analysis software (e.g., Hudl, Sportscode) and data visualization tools.
• Strong understanding of rugby union tactics, rules, and game dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, statistical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex data to non‑technical audiences.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple projects, and meet strict deadlines.
• Flexibility to travel with the team and work non‑traditional hours, including weekends.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA**.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance‑related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry conferences.
• Access to cutting‑edge performance analysis technology and resources.
• Work in a high‑performance environment with a dedicated professional team.
• Paid time off and other company benefits.