Talent Pathways Lead - NSW / ACT

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 role is primarily responsible for managing the NSW/ACT Talent Pathways to develop a system that attracts and facilitates the most talented young footballers in NSW/ACT to fulfil their football potential.

This role will work closely with the GWS Giants and Sydney Swans Academies as well as the AFL NSW/ACT game development team to identify, attract, develop and retain talented athletes for our game and ensure a positive development experience for these athletes.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities:

• Developing a clear and bespoke strategic plan in conjunction with AFL NSW/ACT team and the NSW AFL Academies (Swans and Giants) to identify, attract and retain talented athletes to our game, ensuring this plan has continual improvement structures in place for best practice aligned to AFL Talent Pathways environments in other markets.
• Establishing strong relationships with the Sydney Swans and GWS Giants Club Academies to support their programs to meet the objectives of the AFL and provide first-class Talent development environments across the State.
• Work closely with the AFL NSW/ACT game development team on initiatives that will attract and retain new talent to our game. This will include specific strategies focused on Indigenous and CALD communities and a strong connection to the NSW/ACT schools competitions.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders on the Talent ID of youth players and develop a clear picture of who the identified talent are in the NSW/ACT region. Contribute to the selection of identified athletes in state and National programs such as NSW representative sides and Allies teams.
• Assist with the running of any Talent games, programs and initiatives in NSW/ACT. This includes National Championship games, Diversity days and NSW/ACT State games.
• Be a point of liaison for AFL recruiting staff in relation to NSW/ACT players.
• Ensure a strong connection with AFL NSW/ACT staff and the broader community club network.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Core Competencies:

• Exceptional organisational, communication, inter-personal and stakeholder management skills
• Strong drive to see the game of Australian Rules football further develop in the NSW/ACT market
• Adaptability to work across a range of programs from school talent ID sessions through to National Championships matches
• Experience in liaising with and influencing others through a collaborative approach to achieve positive outcomes
• Strong initiative and thinking outside the square to develop creative solutions
• Ideally (but not mandatory) have experience in working in youth athlete talent development
• programs
• Developed IT skills

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: 11 June 2025