Player Contract Administration Manager

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

This role will undertake key responsibilities in the management of player contracts, and player payment compliance across both the Men’s and Women’s competitions. The expectations and responsibilities of the role encompass compliance, strategic thinking and effective communication that upholds the AFL’s competitive balance policy framework in alignment with the Collective Bargaining Agreement and AFL Rules.

The TPP and Soft Cap regulatory mechanisms are highly confidential and complex, with the role requiring a strong compliance, legal and/or financial background, a high level of commercial and business acumen, and a broad understanding of the football environment.

Please note this is a full-time max-term position ending approximately October 2026.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities:

• Managing player contracting processes for compliance with the AFL Rules and applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA);
• Responsibility for day-to-day administration of:
  • player contracts and contracting processes for compliance with the AFL Rules and applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA);
  • AFL and AFLW lists; and
  • player earnings including injury and other payments;
• Providing independent support and guidance to AFL Clubs on the CBA, AFL/W Player Rules, Total Player Payment issues and Player Contracting including complex contractual scenarios;
• Identifying and mitigating risks associated with player contracts, including legal and financial implications for both Clubs and the AFL;
• Providing advice and guidance to Football Operations teams around Draft, Trade, and List Management rules and processes;
• Collaborating with the Salary Cap and Soft Cap team to support audits and investigation matters;
• Proactively identifying and escalating issues to internal stakeholders regarding amendments and updates to the AFL Player Rules and CBA for consideration;
• Contribute to the reporting of Salary Cap matters for internal and external stakeholder;
• Participate in the implementation of the eAFL Database modules including the preparation of reports on TPP matters; and
• Responsibility for/overseeing a direct report in the role of Player Contract & List Management Coordinator
• Contributing to key projects within and outside the core role.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Core Competencies:

• Advanced communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to negotiate and build influence with stakeholders including strong empathy and ability to enforce accountability
• Proactive self-starter who seeks continuous improvement
• Ability to be adaptable
• Ability to maintain a high level of discretion and confidentiality
• High attention to detail

Mandatory:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a professional sporting, legal or accounting environment in a compliance, governance and/or senior administration role

Desired:

• Experience in the sporting landscape
• Experience in, or strong understanding of contracting legal framework
• Experience with systems-based technology

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: 21 May 2025