Director of Women's Sports Research and Innovation

About the role

The Director of Women’s Sports Research and Innovation will shape and drive a comprehensive research agenda that advances women’s participation, performance, health and wellbeing in sport. Reporting to senior leadership, you will translate evidence into actionable programs, policies and innovative solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Define and lead the strategic research and innovation roadmap for women’s sport.
• Identify priority research themes such as participation, performance, health, wellbeing, leadership and system development.
• Commission, oversee and ensure methodological rigour of research studies, pilot projects and applied insights.
• Convert research findings into programs, frameworks, tools, policy recommendations and innovation initiatives.
• Promote evidence‑informed practices among internal and external stakeholders.
• Build and manage partnerships with universities, research institutes, sport organisations, public bodies and innovation partners worldwide.
• Ensure compliance with research governance, ethics, data integrity and intellectual‑property standards.
• Establish quality‑assurance processes, monitor KPIs and manage the research budget, including grant and funding opportunities.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in sports science, public health, research, policy or related field; Master’s preferred, PhD an advantage.
• 8–10 years progressive experience in research, innovation or evidence‑based program development, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven track record leading cross‑functional initiatives, strategic partnerships and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with experience interpreting data to inform strategy and policy.

Required skills