AFL New Zealand is on the lookout for a Country Manager. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Country Manager – AFL New Zealand is a full-time position based in Auckland that will lead a team of dedicated staff at the forefront of community engagement, delivering development, competitions & high-performance programs across New Zealand. This role will be responsible for managing the AFL’s operations and partnerships in New Zealand, driving growth outcomes across all program sectors and implementing a strong youth high performance pathway.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
- Managing a team of Participation Coordinators, Administration & High-Performance staff to professionally deliver participation programs across each key segment
- Source new commercial partnerships & funding initiatives to support program delivery
- Oversee the implementation of responsible business policies and practices
- implementing strategies and programs to drive participation growth in AFL KiwiKick, Schools, Junior Football, Talent Academy, Diversity & Inclusion Programs and Alternate Formats
- Developing and implementing regional action plans in collaboration with Regional Sports Trusts
- Leading strategies to drive transition of participants into youth & senior club football
- Integrate diverse communities into all participation programs
- Oversee the delivery of the youth high performance pathway (Talent Academy)
- Supporting key projects within and outside of core role contributing to the success of the broader team
- Managing budgets in line with revenue targets and forecasted expenditure
- Increasing revenue to support programs and competitions
OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER
- Strong leadership and exceptional ability to engage, influence and collaborate with a range of key stakeholders, internally and externally including from diverse backgrounds and cultures
- Proven strategic planning capabilities & ability to implement new initiatives and programs
- Understanding of responsible business and policy implementation
- Knowledge of education and community participation sectors
- Genuine passion for community engagement and a commitment to ensuring all programs are accessible to all participants regardless of background or ability
Think this could be you? Click APPLY or contact Ben Drew (AFL International Development Manager) at ben.drew@afl.com.au for a confidential discussion. Applications close Sunday 31st August 2025
