Regional Manager South East

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 AFL is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and influential leader as Region Manager to meet strategic game development outcomes, including the vision of ‘Footy in Every Home' in the region.

The successful candidate will build strong partnerships with key stakeholders across Local Football bodies, Industry Partners and Local Government to ensure that the game continues to grow and thrive in the region.

The position will be filled by a strategically minded and results driven leader with a broad understanding of all formats of the game and a strong background in leadership, including competency in finances and governance.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities:

Growth:

• Lead the implementation of Game Development strategies within the region, driving increased participation, engagement, retention and transition of players, umpires, coaches and volunteers across all products and segments.
• Through participation networks in communities and schools, as well as public promotional activities; develop increased awareness, acquisition, conversion and retention of participants.
• Where required, identify and develop place-based plans to further strengthen local Game Development structures.

Community Foundation:

• Promote long-term sustainability for leagues and clubs through the provision of effective affiliation and governance support and structure.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and representative for the game within the region.
• Develop and implement the execution of key projects locally that will have a meaningful impact on the region.
• Develop and maintain relationships and engagement with key community football stakeholders, all levels of government and the various corporate and community partners.
• Advocate for and negotiate new and inclusive football facilities in conjunction with local councils and state government.

Region Administration Centre (RAC) Management:

• Administer contemporary HR policies, performance goals and allocated resources.
• Oversee best practice business operations through clear operating policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular organisation evaluation to ensure optimum and compliant business activities and operations.
• Prepare and present accurate and relevant monthly RAC Business Reporting to Company Directors and AFL Victoria..
• Lead and develop a team focussing on building a high-performance environment, growth mindset professional systems and ways of working.

General Leadership:

• Implement and execute AFL People policies, performance goals and allocate resources within the AFL guidelines.
• Lead staff performance and resources to ensure alignment to strategy and business plans.
• Lead the financial aspects of the region in collaboration with AFL Finance Team.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER 

Core competencies

• Strategic thinking & planning
• Emotional intelligence
• Ability to set an example of professional standards
• Customer/Fan centric with strong opportunity identification experience
• Personal effectiveness
• Ability to navigate and influence complex or difficult stakeholders
• Knowledge of traditional and new AFL Game Development products
• Ability to lead and thrive within a high performance team environment

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:

13 April 2026