Head of Events & Match Day

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 for everyone to love and connect with Australia’s game.

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

The Head of Events & Match Day is responsible for setting the strategic direction, creative vision and delivery excellence of the AFL and AFLW events and match day portfolio, building and delivering a market-leading suite of sports events within the Australian market. This role oversees all major corporate hospitality and public-facing events, as well as key match day activities, across a vast and high-profile calendar ranging from the iconic Brownlow Medal to the AFL Grand Final and its associated entertainment program.

The role leads the governance and evolution of the AFL match day experience, delivered in close collaboration with all 18 AFL Clubs, ensuring consistency, quality and innovation across venues and competitions. Central to the position is the leadership, development and day-to-day management of the AFL Events and Match Day Production team, with a clear mandate to grow, mentor and develop a best-in-industry cohort of events specialists.

With a strong focus on internal and external collaboration, the Head of Events & Match Day works across the AFL executive, clubs, commercial partners, venues and suppliers, requiring exceptional communication skills and the ability to manage multiple stakeholders to deliver outstanding outcomes.

The role carries accountability for a significant budget to deliver best-in-class events and match day experiences and works closely with the commercial team to identify opportunities for growth, innovation and continuous improvement across the portfolio. This position offers extensive exposure across the AFL executive and the broader sports and events industry.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

• Significant long term, relevant experience in the Events, Entertainment, Hospitality, Sports industry
• Proven track record to manage multiple stakeholders, from Executive to Supplier relationships with maturity displaying excellent communication skills
• Demonstrated experience in managing a high performing team in a fast paced and pressure filled environment
• Demonstrated ability to be highly strategic, creative and innovative to ensure events are always exceeding expectations
• Exceptional leadership skills with key focus on team development
• Demonstrated focus on and commitment to a values-based culture
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain outstanding relationships and network
• High level expertise in P&L management
• Demonstration of strong strategic planning ability
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills
• Outstanding attention to detail, administrative and planning skills
• Strong, decisive and collaborative when faced with challenges

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: 10 March 2026