Club and Competitions Manager - Central Australia

ABOUT US

As an organisation, the AFL works tirelessly in all states and at all levels to enhance and grow the game – from grassroots to elite. Together, we put on the game, deliver important events, communicate with our fans, run community programs, develop coaches and umpires, collaborate with partners, delight members, support clubs and so much more. While our roles may vary, we are all united by a common goal, to progress the game so that everyone can share in its heritage and possibilities.

The AFL is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care. Please note, we undertake several screening processes to ensure this commitment is upheld, this includes ensuring the successful candidate to this position holds a valid employee Working with Children/ Vulnerable People check and a satisfactory criminal history record check.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer and firmly believe that diversity and inclusion is an important part of both the AFL and the communities in which we operate. Our game is for everyone, and we strive to be a workplace for everyone.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Purpose – why this role is important  

AFL is the number one sport in the Northern Territory and has the highest per capita engagement of all States and Territories nationally. Participation in AFL competitions, programs and activities leads all other sporting codes and AFL is at the core of the social fabric of the NT, the benefits from participation are well beyond the playing field.

The Club and Competitions Manager – Central Australia role will be responsible for the coordination, connection and supporting the delivery of the AFLNT Central Australia Plan.  This will encompass strong and advanced stakeholder leadership across a number of groups and key partnerships. Management, delivery, monitoring and supporting compliance of Competitions and Club across the region as well as promoting and developing the game are other core components of the role.

Based in Alice Springs, the successful candidate will require strong communication skills, the ability to bring together cross departmental relationships and an advanced level of cultural awareness to ensure the game is available for everyone in our community.

Day in the life

• Progressing and iterating the broader AFLNT Central Australia Plan
• Ensuring compliance with National, Northern Territory and regional plans, policies and procedures
• Manage and oversee the Central Australia Competitions yearly planning and review process. 
• Implement, lead the coordination and compliance of Management and Advisory committees.
• Manage and establish relevant and innovative training programs for Central Australian clubs.
• Ensure the competitions are administered in line with the National Policies, AFLNT Rules & Regulations and By-Laws.
• Proactively identify potential risks for community clubs and implement preventative actions.
• Manage Club Compliance with Licence Agreements and funding agreements.
• Manage the Competitions Budget within the AFL’s financial guidelines. Develop and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders to influence, adopt and drive change.
• Build a strong and supportive relationship with Umpiring groups and drive growth in umpiring in partnership with AFLNT’s Umpiring team.
• Management of the relationships between the AFLNT, League and Club presidents and other key stakeholders.
• Work in partnership with Regional Manager Central Australia to ensure competitions and clubs in the region are connected to Game Development and Remote programs that drive participation.
• Support and contribute to the success of the broader team.

Must haves – what’s needed to help you be successful   

• Strong strategic skillset - proven ability to develop, implement, and evolve strategic plans that align with broader objectives to achieve organisational success.

• Strong senior leadership (5+ years) in managing advisory and management committees, ensuring effective collaboration and compliance.

• Prior experience in building and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders, including clubs, league presidents, and community groups.

• Extensive experience influencing and building trust with senior stakeholders, leveraging strategic insights to shape outcomes and drive change.
• Significant proven capability in risk management, with a history of proactively identifying potential risks and implementing preventative measures to safeguard operations.

• Highly developed critical thinking and problem-solving acumen, adept at resolving complex challenges and delivering innovative solutions.
• Strong financial management expertise, including oversight of budgets within organisational frameworks, ensuring financial accountability and alignment with strategic goals.

• Strong team player with a collaborative mindset, contributing to the success of cross-functional teams.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to manage stakeholder relationships and deliver key messages.
• Prior experience or passion for Australian Rules Football will be highly regarded.

OUR CULTURE

Please visit www.afl.com.au/careers/our-organisation

THE PERKS

• Play The Day Your Way – a flexible approach to your working life
• My Development – lean into the AFL’s My Development program consisting of on-the-job training, coaching and mentoring, and formal learning
• Play Well – access to our extensive Health and Wellbeing program centered around our belief in a healthy body, healthy mind, and healthy workplace
• My Benefits – with thanks to our AFL Corporate Partners, access great benefits and discounts
• AFL Silver Memberships – permanent team members can access AFL matches at Marvel Stadium and the MCG, enjoy and share the experience of our game with your family and friends!

Applications Close:  23 May 2025