Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute) in Loughborough
Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute)

Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute) in Loughborough

Loughborough Full-Time 75000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
UK Sports Institute

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and innovate performance services for Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
  • Company: Join the UK Sports Institute, a leader in athlete support and performance.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 29 days annual leave, health plans, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Be part of a dynamic team driving world-class athlete success.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on sports performance and champion diversity and inclusion.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for sports performance.

The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.

The UK Sports Institute is seeking an exceptional leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Director of Performance Services. This is a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the UKSI’s contribution to the UK Performance Support Strategy.

As Director of Performance Services, you will provide strategic leadership and accountability for the UKSI’s Performance Services functions, driving world-leading expertise, innovation and impact across Olympic and Paralympic performance programmes.

UKSI exists to give athletes and sports a competitive edge. Our role is to:

  • Drive competitive advantage through world-leading innovation and expert support that delivers tangible performance gains for funded Olympic and Paralympic athletes, coaches and programmes.
  • Provide specialist services and expertise that raise standards of athlete support in areas where sports cannot effectively deliver alone.

You will lead high-impact expert advisory services, innovation projects and strategic programmes that translate cutting-edge science, medicine and performance support into real-world results.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will also:

  • Maximise the value and opportunities of being part of the UK Sport & Institute Group.
  • Work in close partnership with National Governing Bodies, Home Country Sports Institutes and key system stakeholders to enable system-wide delivery of the UK Performance Support Strategy.
  • Contribute to organisational leadership, strategy and culture, ensuring UKSI continues to operate at the forefront of global high performance.

All UKSI leaders are expected to actively champion equality, diversity and inclusion within their teams and across the organisation. As part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will play a direct role in shaping and delivering the annual Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP), ensuring inclusive leadership sits at the heart of everything we do.

At the UKSI we aspire to have a workforce that is diverse and representative of all sections of society, not only by characteristic but by thought and perspective. We believe a diverse workforce enables growth and creates a sustainably inclusive workspace for all employees.

We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment here at UKSI. All applications for all roles within our organisation will be subject to safer recruitment principles. Applicants will be required to complete a self-declaration form, will have references checked and dependent upon role may be required to obtain Enhanced DBS vetting.

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates will be required to submit a CV and answer the application question via the UKSI careers portal. The answers to the application question should bring specific examples of your CV to life by highlighting your relevant skills, experience and attributes that would make you the ideal candidate for this role.

In addition to the application question we would like to ask candidates to submit a video via WeTransfer, answering a specific question which can be found within the application form. Videos should be no more than 5 minutes long and sent via WeTransfer.

We are aware of an increase in the use of Artificial Intelligence for applications. At the UKSI we are keen to get to know you as a person and AI-generated content may lack the specificity required and/or fail to address key criteria. We consider that personalised responses are essential to convey your individual skills, knowledge and experience. Therefore, to maintain the integrity and fairness of our recruitment process, we discourage the use of AI-generated content which may diminish your chances of success in your application.

Key Dates for Applicants:

  • Closing Date: 31st May 2026
  • Shortlisting Date: 5th June 2026
  • Interview Dates: Stage 1: Expected 10th/11th June 2026 – Loughborough; Stage 2: Expected 6th/7th July 2026 - Loughborough

If you have any questions regarding the content of the Job Description that you would like to discuss further, please email your enquiry.

The UKSI delivers outstanding support that enables sports and athletes to excel. Since 2002, and over the last four Olympic and Paralympic cycles, the UKSI has evolved quietly and effectively into an organisation consistently performing at a world-leading level, contributing to over 1,000 British Olympic and Paralympic medals.

Benefits include:

  • Learning and development
  • 29 days annual leave
  • Professional memberships
  • Comprehensive health plan
  • Generous parental and family leave
  • Competitive pension scheme
  • Occupational sick pay
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Life cover
  • Retail offers and discounts

Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute) in Loughborough employer: UK Sports Institute

The UK Sports Institute (UKSI) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration in the realm of sports performance. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, employees are empowered to contribute to meaningful projects that directly impact Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Located in Loughborough, UKSI provides extensive learning and development opportunities, competitive benefits, and a supportive environment that fosters personal and professional growth.
UK Sports Institute

Contact Detail:

UK Sports Institute Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute) in Loughborough

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sports industry, especially those connected to the UK Sports Institute. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for performance services and how you can contribute to the UKSI’s mission. Share specific examples of your past successes that align with their goals.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in sports performance and innovation. Be ready to discuss how you can drive competitive advantage for athletes and coaches. Tailor your responses to reflect the values and objectives of the UKSI.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure to follow up after submitting your CV and video – a little persistence can go a long way in showing your commitment to the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute) in Loughborough

Strategic Leadership
Performance Management
Innovation in Sports Science
Collaboration with National Governing Bodies
Expert Advisory Services
Project Management
Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy
Stakeholder Engagement
Organisational Strategy Development
High Performance Coaching
Communication Skills
Analytical Thinking
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability to Change

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Performance Services. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in performance support, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.

Answer the Application Question Thoughtfully: When answering the application question, bring your CV to life with specific examples. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with our mission at UKSI, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!

Keep It Personal: Avoid using AI-generated content in your application. We’re keen to get to know the real you, so make sure your responses reflect your unique perspective and experiences. Authenticity is key!

Submit Your Video: Don’t forget to include your video submission! Make it engaging and concise, sticking to the 5-minute limit. This is your chance to stand out, so let your personality shine through when you answer the specific question.

How to prepare for a job interview at UK Sports Institute

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you’re well-versed in the UK Sports Institute's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and how they align with Olympic and Paralympic performance. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your experience to their goals.

✨Showcase Leadership Skills

As a Director of Performance Services, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've led teams or initiatives successfully. Highlight how you’ve driven innovation and impact in previous positions.

✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion

The UKSI values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how you've championed these principles in your work. Share examples of how you’ve fostered an inclusive environment and how you plan to continue this at UKSI.

✨Prepare for the Video Question

Don’t forget about the video submission! Plan your response carefully, keeping it concise and engaging. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role. Practice beforehand to ensure you stay within the 5-minute limit.

Director of Performance Services (UK Sports Institute) in Loughborough
UK Sports Institute
Location: Loughborough

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