Participations & Programs Manager - Metro South

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

The Participation & Programs Manager – Metro South will lead a dedicated team to deliver key participation programs across Gold Coast, Logan LGA’s as well as the NSW Northern Rivers region.

The role will be responsible for establishing aspirational participation targets for the team through detained mapping and tracking while driving growth outcomes in NAB AFL Auskick, NAB AFL Superkick and Schools. 

DAY IN THE LIFE

• Managing a team existing of a Participation Lead, Participation Coordinators, Trainees and Casual staff to professionally deliver participation programs across each key segment
• Implementing strategies and programs to drive participation growth in Auskick, Superkick, Schools, Junior Football, Cultural Diversity, Disability Inclusion, Indigenous, Women and Girls.
• Developing and implementing regional action plans, that focus on recruitment, retention, transition and conversions of participants through our player pathways
• Managing a regional budget in line with revenue targets and forecasted expenditure
• Work closely with the Gold Coast Suns to drive mutually beneficial participation outcomes
• Lead the pathway promotions of the Region alongside the Participation Operations Lead
• Lead the recruiting, rostering and deployment of the Game Development Officer network in collaboration with the wider region delivery team
• Contributing to key projects within and outside of core role
• Supporting and contributing to the success of the broader team

MUST HAVES

• Influential leadership and stakeholder relationship management skills
• A can-do growth mindset
• Clear and proven understanding of engaging, attracting and retaining participants integrated within player pathways
• Proven strategic planning capabilities headlined with a vision
• Proven ability to inspire a high performing to have impact and achieve outcomes
• Proven ability to implement new initiatives and programs
• Knowledge of education and community participation sectors
• Excellent verbal communication skills 
• Ability to adapt to change, remain effective and calm when faced with changing tasks, responsibilities, or people 
• Valid Driver’s Licence and Blue Card 

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 April 2025