Commercial Project 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

We are seeking a dynamic Commercial Project Manager to lead innovative commercial partnerships within AFL Digital. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to deliver high-impact brand-partnered campaigns for Australia's premier sporting organisation.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic project leader with proven experience in managing integrated campaigns from concept to delivery. You'll be part of a team that collaborates with internal commercial teams and external partners to create compelling branded content that resonate with AFL's diverse digital audiences.

We're looking for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, excels at stakeholder management, and has a passion for project management. Your expertise, combined with commercial acumen and creative insight, will be essential in delivering campaigns that drive both audience engagement and commercial success.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities:

Project Leadership

• Develop deep understanding of AFL's content strategy, digital audiences, and brand portfolio to

deliver effective partner campaigns

• Oversee commercial projects from initiation to completion, ensuring alignment with business objectives and delivery of expected ROI
• Lead production of brand-partnered campaigns across multiple channels including video, social media, editorial, and digital platforms
• Transform creative concepts into comprehensive project plans with clear production and distribution strategies
• Collaborate with Commercial Content Strategist, creative & channel leads, commercial partners and clubs, managing timelines, budgets, resources, and stakeholder expectations

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact during project execution, facilitating communication between internal teams and external clients
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with AFL Commercial teams, corporate partners, and club media managers
• Navigate commercial briefs efficiently, coordinating cross-functional teams to develop creative solutions
• Build credibility with stakeholders by assuming the role of trusted advisor to deal with ambiguity around deliverables and problem-solve challenges
• Identify opportunities for future business development through exceptional client service

Financial Management

• Monitor project budgets, ensuring delivery within financial parameters
• Provide accurate cost estimates and oversee supplier invoicing and project reconciliation processes
• Track expenses and deliver regular financial reporting
• Contribute to AFL Digital department revenue goals through efficient project delivery

Operational Excellence

• Coordinate production timelines across multiple media formats and distribution channels
• Anticipate project needs and manage workflow to prevent bottlenecks
• Identify process improvement opportunities and implement best practices
• Champion AFL Digital initiatives in alignment with broader content strategies
• Maintain detailed project documentation and reporting systems

Key Performance Indicators

• Deliver all commercial project assets to clients by agreed deadlines
• Contribute to AFL Digital department revenue targets
• Build and maintain productive relationships with key internal and external stakeholders
• Anticipate tasks and manage workflow across multiple projects at various stages of their lifecycle and seasons

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Core Competencies:

• 3-5 years managing integrated marketing campaigns, preferably within creative agencies, media publishers, or sports marketing environments
• Proven track record managing multiple stakeholders and facilitating end-to-end campaign production
• Strong commercial experience with demonstrated ability to own client relationships and drive business outcomes
• Experience managing project budgets and financial reporting
• Understanding of branded content strategy including ideation, planning, implementation, and post- campaign analysis (PCA)
• Knowledge of Australian Football League operations and sports marketing landscape is desirable
• Experience with digital content production and distribution platforms
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills with ability to prioritize effectively in fast- paced environments
• Outstanding communication skills with ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure
• High level of business acumen with understanding of commercial objectives and revenue drivers
• Client service excellence with focus on building mutually beneficial partnerships
• Strong attention to detail and quality assurance mindset
• Collaborative team player with ability to work autonomously when required

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 June 2025