Lead Sports Data Analyst

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Professional development

State-of-the-art facility

Pension fund contributions

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Lead Sports Data Analyst to drive advanced analytics across performance, scouting and fan engagement.

You will lead a team of analysts, develop predictive models, create dashboards, mentor juniors, and partner with coaches and management to translate data into actionable recommendations.

The role is on-site, requiring deep sports knowledge, strong ML skills, and excellence in communication.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in a quantitative field.
• 6+ years experience in data analysis, with 2+ years in leadership, preferably in sports.
• Proficiency in R or Python.
• Experience with SQL and database management.
• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms and their applications.
• Excellent data visualization skills (Tableau, Power BI).
• Deep knowledge of sports, including rules, strategies, and performance metrics.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the data analytics team in collecting, cleaning, and analyzing sports performance data.
• Develop predictive models and statistical analyses to identify trends and opportunities in player performance and game strategy.
• Translate complex data findings into clear, concise, and actionable recommendations for coaches, management, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee the design and implementation of data visualization tools and dashboards.
• Mentor and guide junior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Collaborate with various departments to understand their data needs and deliver tailored analytical solutions.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and security across all analytical processes.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and sports analytics.
• Present findings and insights to executive leadership and external partners.

Skills

Leadership

Team mentoring

Data storytelling

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Statistics/Data Science

Tools

R

Python

SQL

Tableau

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization at the intersection of sports and technology, is seeking an experienced Lead Sports Data Analyst to join their team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This critical role involves leveraging advanced analytics to derive actionable insights from vast sports datasets, informing strategic decisions across performance, scouting, and fan engagement. You will lead a team of analysts, driving innovation in data methodologies and contributing to the development of cutting-edge analytical tools. The ideal candidate possesses a strong quantitative background, a passion for sports, and proven leadership capabilities. This is an on-site position requiring full commitment to the Richards Bay office.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the data analytics team in collecting, cleaning, and analyzing sports performance data.


• Develop predictive models and statistical analyses to identify trends and opportunities in player performance and game strategy.


• Translate complex data findings into clear, concise, and actionable recommendations for coaches, management, and other stakeholders.


• Oversee the design and implementation of data visualization tools and dashboards.


• Mentor and guide junior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.


• Collaborate with various departments to understand their data needs and deliver tailored analytical solutions.


• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and security across all analytical processes.


• Stay updated with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and sports analytics.


• Present findings and insights to executive leadership and external partners.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.


• Minimum of 6 years of experience in data analysis, with at least 2 years in a leadership role, preferably within the sports industry.


• Proficiency in statistical programming languages such as R or Python.


• Experience with SQL and database management.


• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms and their application.


• Excellent data visualization skills (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).


• Deep knowledge of sports, including rules, strategies, and performance metrics.


• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, commensurate with your expertise and experience.


• As part of the Richards Bay team, you will enjoy comprehensive medical aid, including hospital and day-to-day benefits.


• Opportunities for professional development are a priority, including access to advanced training, conferences, and certifications.


• You’ll work in a state-of-the‑art facility equipped with the latest technology.


• This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.


• Pension fund contributions and a performance bonus structure are also provided.


• Join a passionate team dedicated to unlocking the power of data in sports.