National School Football Competition Lead (Docklands, Victoria, AU) na AFL Careers Home Page

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 National School Football Competition lead is a key role in the Participation Programs team to lead the AFL’s approach to schools Football. This role is responsible for making sure the AFL is supporting, developing and executing school competition to ensure high quality football experiences are accessible for every school across Australia.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities:

• Support the execution and implementation of the AFL’s schools strategy, with a strong focus on school football competition
• Collaborate with States and Territories to understand growth opportunities in the school football sector
• Develop framework and strengthen existing partnership opportunities with already established school competitions
• Development of school competition resources that outline the benefits of using Play HQ
• Ensure all school competitions are aligned with the AFL’s junior rules
• Identify opportunities to start or grow female competitions through schools
• Drive more ways to play in secondary school competitions through AFL Nines or new ways to play
• Align coaching and umpiring processes to school football to support the quality and growth of school competitions
• Collaborate with key industries partners to support pathways and opportunities for more students to play football through schools
• Work with the Game Development Brand and Engagement Team to ensure marketing and communication is effectively supporting school competitions
• Contribute to key projects within and outside of core role
• Support and contribute to the success of the broader team

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Core Competencies:

• Ability to generate, drive and implement change, adaptability, ability to motivate and influence stakeholders
• Ability to develop targets and budgets
• Analytical ability to derive insights to support future growth plans
• A strategic thinker and strong communicator
• Attention to detail and ability to oversee multiple platforms
• Proven experience working in a collaborative environment to achieve joint goals
• A highly driven, dynamic and energetic individual
• A strong work ethic and attention to detail
• Confidence and passion with the ability to challenge the status quo when required to lead growth

Mandatory:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role or field
• Strong understanding and demonstrated experience in competition management

• Experience in development and implementation of programs, initiatives or campaigns that are designed for growth
• Experience and knowledge of the Australian schools and education sector
• Strong administration skills, including pulling together business cases and presentations

Desired:

• Degree in related field, (e.g. Sports Management or Business) or equivalent experience
• A strong understanding of the Australian sporting system and network

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: 5 December 2025