NewsBite

AFL Barwon seeking an ‘experienced and influential’ person to be its new regional manager

AFL Barwon is soon to have a new person in charge when the current regional manager departs his post in coming days. Here’s what they’re looking for in the right candidate.

Geelong Cats chief strategy and growth officer Marcus King, Leopold netballer Millie Holand, South Barwon’s Matt Caldow, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Gerard Griffin and AFL Barwon regional manager Edward Wilson. Picture: Alison Wynd
Geelong Cats chief strategy and growth officer Marcus King, Leopold netballer Millie Holand, South Barwon’s Matt Caldow, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Gerard Griffin and AFL Barwon regional manager Edward Wilson. Picture: Alison Wynd

Geelong football region peak body AFL Barwon is seeking an emotionally intelligent, dynamic, experienced and influential leader to fill the post of regional manager.

It follows the looming exit of current manager Ed Wilson who will depart his post on March 26, less than a fortnight before all three Geelong football seasons start on April 5 after accepting a position with Motorcycling Victoria.

This masthead understands Wilson is a passionate motorsport fan but did not have a strong background in Aussie Rules.

Wilson was appointed to the role in June, 2022 at the age of 27, replacing Bruce Harwood.

At the time, AFL Barwon said Wilson brought a wealth of sports management experience, previously holding positions of executive officer of Athletics ACT and a general manager at Touch Rugby League Australia.

AFL Barwon regional manager Ed Wilson, with Cr Anthony Aitken, will depart his position on March 26. Picture: Alan Barber
AFL Barwon regional manager Ed Wilson, with Cr Anthony Aitken, will depart his position on March 26. Picture: Alan Barber

The job advertisement, which was posted on AFL Barwon’s website on Sunday, highlights the need for a “strategically minded and results driven leader”.

The role also requires a broad understanding of all formats of the game and a strong background in leadership, including across finances and governance.

The position requires the new regional manager to prepare and present accurate and relevant monthly business reporting to the commission and AFL Victoria, while managing the financial aspects of the region, in collaboration with the AFL finance team.

This masthead revealed earlier this year it cost significantly more than it anticipated to play the GFNL grand final at Kardinia Park, with the league opening the door for a potential return to a community ground.

The role requires strong advocation for new and inclusive football facilities with local councils and the state government.

New sporting infrastructure, especially for netball, remains a top priority for both the peak body and the City of Greater Geelong.

The successful candidate will also be required to implement game development strategies to drive increased participation, engagement, retention and transition of players, umpires, coaches and volunteers.

Applications for the role close on March 21.

Originally published as AFL Barwon seeking an ‘experienced and influential’ person to be its new regional manager

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/afl-barwon-seeking-an-experienced-and-influential-person-to-be-its-new-regional-manager/news-story/1250b24e5d2ad5025e71bb71b50d1ab0