Senior Head Coach and Sports Director

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Employer matching retirement plan

Paid annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto is seeking a Senior Head Coach and Sports Director to lead elite programs and drive long-term athlete development. You will set high performance standards, mentor coaches, and shape curriculum for holistic youth sport.

The role blends coaching excellence with strategic oversight, budget management, and community engagement to uplift young athletes while maintaining rigorous professional conduct.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• High-level coaching certification(s).
• 10+ years in coaching and sports management.

Responsibilities

• Provide elite-level head coaching focusing on player development and team performance.
• Develop training methodologies and tactical strategies.
• Oversee the sports department and lead coaching staff.
• Lead talent identification and recruitment for elite athletes.
• Develop and manage curriculum and long-term athlete development plans.
• Manage budget and allocate resources for equipment and facilities.
• Mentor coaching staff and ensure safety and ethical conduct.
• Represent the academy at events and liaise with stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Staff mentorship

Budget management

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in Sports Science/Coaching/Physical Education

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded sports academy focused on holistic athlete development, is seeking an experienced and visionary Senior Head Coach and Sports Director to lead their programs in Soweto, Gauteng. This senior role encompasses both direct coaching responsibilities and the overall strategic direction and management of the academy's sporting activities. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in coaching, talent identification, athlete development, and sports program administration. You will be responsible for setting high performance standards, mentoring coaching staff, overseeing curriculum development, and fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and sportsmanship. This is a leadership position critical to nurturing young athletic talent in the Soweto community.

Key Responsibilities

Provide elite-level head coaching for a designated sports program, focusing on player development and team performance. Develop and implement comprehensive training methodologies and tactical strategies. Oversee the entire sports department, including managing other coaches and support staff. Lead talent identification and recruitment efforts to attract promising young athletes. Develop and manage the sports academy's curriculum and long-term athlete development plans. Ensure all programs adhere to best practices in athlete welfare, safety, and ethical conduct. Manage the sports department's budget, including resource allocation for equipment and facilities. Foster a positive and inspiring academy culture that promotes teamwork, discipline, and continuous improvement. Liaise with parents, guardians, and external stakeholders regarding athlete progress and academy activities. Stay current with the latest trends and research in sports science, coaching techniques, and athlete development. Organize and oversee participation in competitions and tournaments. Conduct regular performance reviews for coaching staff and provide mentorship. Represent the academy at relevant sporting events and community functions in Soweto.

Requirements

A Master's degree in Sports Science, Coaching, Physical Education, or a related field. Extensive coaching certification at a high level within a specific sport, recognized nationally or internationally. A minimum of 10 years of experience in coaching and sports management, with a proven record of developing athletes to elite levels. Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, program management, and staff leadership. Strong understanding of sports psychology, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to inspire and motivate both athletes and coaching staff. Experience in budget management and resource allocation. A passion for youth development and community engagement through sport. Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by training and competition schedules in Soweto. Background checks will be required.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with the candidate's extensive experience and leadership capabilities, along with performance-based incentives. This role includes comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan with employer matching, and generous paid annual leave. Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced coaching certifications, leadership training, and attendance at international sports conferences, are provided. You will have the immense satisfaction of shaping the future of young athletes and contributing significantly to the sporting landscape of Soweto. Our client provides a supportive and dynamic work environment dedicated to athletic excellence and personal growth. Join a team committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of aspiring athletes.