Remote Head of Sports Performance Analytics

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 2,953,000 - 4,266,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Health insurance and benefits

Stock options or equity

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Head of Sports Performance Analytics to lead a global team delivering data-driven performance insights. The role drives strategy, analytics development, and stakeholder communication across elite teams and partners.

The position requires a PhD/Masters in a quantitative field with 10+ years in analytics and 5+ years in leadership, plus expertise in Python, R, and cloud platforms.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in a quantitative field.
• Extensive experience in data analytics and performance analysis, with leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the sports performance analytics team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Develop and execute the overarching data strategy for sports performance, aligning with organizational goals.
• Oversee the design, development, and implementation of advanced analytical models and predictive tools.
• Analyze vast datasets related to athlete performance and strategies.
• Translate complex data insights into actionable recommendations for coaches and management.
• Establish data governance, quality, and security protocols.
• Collaborate with technology partners to integrate new data sources and platforms.
• Present findings to executive leadership and external partners.
• Mentor and develop team members.

Skills

Leadership

Data storytelling

Stakeholder management

Remote team leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS/Sports Science

Master's degree in a related quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

AWS/Azure/GCP

SQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in sports science and athlete development, is seeking a visionary Head of Sports Performance Analytics for a fully remote position. This senior leadership role requires an individual with a deep understanding of data science, statistical modeling, and a profound passion for sports performance optimization. You will lead a team of highly skilled analysts, shape the organization's data strategy, and drive innovation in how performance data is collected, analyzed, and utilized to gain competitive advantages. Working remotely, you will collaborate with elite sports teams and organizations worldwide, providing critical insights to enhance athlete capabilities and strategic decision-making. This role demands exceptional analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to communicate complex findings effectively to diverse stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the sports performance analytics team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Develop and execute the overarching data strategy for sports performance, aligning with organizational goals.
• Oversee the design, development, and implementation of advanced analytical models and predictive tools.
• Analyze vast datasets related to athlete performance, physiological markers, biomechanics, and game strategies.
• Translate complex data insights into actionable recommendations for coaches, athletes, and management.
• Establish and maintain robust data governance, quality, and security protocols.
• Collaborate with technology partners to identify and integrate new data sources and analytical platforms.
• Present key findings and strategic insights to executive leadership and external partners.
• Mentor and develop team members, guiding their technical and professional growth.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Sports Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in data analytics and performance analysis, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Extensive experience in sports analytics, with a proven track record of developing and implementing data-driven performance strategies for elite athletes or teams.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python, R, and advanced statistical software.
• In-depth knowledge of machine learning, AI, predictive modeling, and data visualization techniques.
• Experience with large-scale data management, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), and big data technologies.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to manage remote teams effectively and drive cross-functional collaboration.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous stock options or equity package.
• Significant budget for professional development, conferences, and further education.
• Full remote work flexibility with a global reach.
• Opportunity to shape the future of sports performance through data.