At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage Paralympic Performance Support teams to enhance athlete performance.
- Company: Join the UK Sports Institute, a leader in supporting athletes' success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of Para athletes and shape the future of sports.
- Qualifications: Experience in performance support and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality and safety.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
The UK Sports Institute has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Head of Performance Support (Paralympic).
Location: Sheffield
A snapshot of the role:
As part of a newly established UKSI Paralympic Specialist Service, the Head of Performance Support (Paralympic) is responsible for the leadership, management, and integration of Paralympic Performance Support teams for eligible Paralympic programmes, and the coordination of Paralympic Specialist Services to these sports. Working in close collaboration with coaches and performance support staff, the role ensures that support provision is fully aligned to the needs of Paralympic sports through integrated performance planning. The postholder will act as a senior leader working with multiple Paralympic World Class Programmes (WCPs), championing Paralympic performance support, embedding high standards of practice, and ensuring athletes and coaches receive world-class support that meets the unique needs of Para athletes.
If you feel you can bring the expertise we require to help us shape our future, we very much look forward to hearing from you.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
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. If there is something we can do to help make the recruitment process or the job more accessible, let us know!
Safer Recruitment
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.
Application Method
To be considered for this World Class Opportunity, candidates will be required to submit a CV and answer the application questions via the UKSI careers portal. The answers to the application questions should bring your CV to life by highlighting your relevant skills, experience and attributes that would make you the ideal candidate for this role.
Important
Once you begin your application on the portal you will have the option to type your answers in a free text box; however, if you would prefer, you may upload your answers with your CV. We ask that the answers to the questions are no more than 2 sides of A4. (Please note that you can only upload 1 document to the portal so please ensure the questions appear either at the beginning or as a follow-on from your CV.)
Artificial Intelligence
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. Please note this does not apply to the use of adaptive technology used to support an applicant's individual needs.
Key Dates for Applicants
Closing Date: Friday 10th April 2026 - 5pm
Interview Date: 23rd April 2026
Additional information for applicants: Please note that occasionally interview dates may be subject to change and may require additional stages. In these instances, we will do our utmost to ensure that candidates have sufficient notice and preparation time.
If you have any questions regarding the content of the Job Description that you would like to discuss further, please email your enquiry to Recruitment@uksportsinstitute.co.uk.
Our Company
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.
Head of Performance Support (Paralympic) in Sheffield employer: UK Sports Institute
Contact Detail:
UK Sports Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Performance Support (Paralympic) in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the Paralympic sports community, attend events, and connect with coaches and support staff. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights into opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Paralympic sports! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your enthusiasm and knowledge about the unique needs of Para athletes. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the UK Sports Institute and their approach to performance support. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission and values, especially around equality and inclusion.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure your CV and application answers are tailored to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. This is your chance to shine, so make it count!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Performance Support (Paralympic) in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Paralympic sports shine through! We want to see how much you care about supporting athletes and coaches, so share your personal connection to the cause.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your leadership and management abilities in performance support.
Answer Thoughtfully: When tackling the application questions, take your time to provide thoughtful and detailed responses. We want to get to know you beyond your CV, so make sure to showcase your unique skills and experiences that make you the perfect fit for this role.
Keep It Personal: Avoid using AI-generated content in your application. We want to hear your voice and understand your individual journey. Authenticity is key, so be yourself and let your personality come through in your writing!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Sports Institute
✨Know Your Paralympic Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in Paralympic sports and performance support. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of Para athletes and how they differ from able-bodied athletes. This knowledge will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Performance Support, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in high-pressure environments. Highlight your experience in integrating performance planning and working collaboratively with coaches.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
The UK Sports Institute values diversity and inclusion, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to this ethos. Share your thoughts on creating an inclusive environment for athletes and staff, and any previous experiences you have in promoting equality within sports.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the role and the organisation. Ask about their vision for the Paralympic Specialist Service and how they measure success in performance support. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.