• Are you a motivational and influential people leader with extensive experience, and qualifications, in either Sports Science, Talent Development or Coaching?
  • Do you want to lead our goal of implementing the most sophisticated and contemporary talent pathway in Australian Rules Football?
  • Do you have experience in designing and overseeing development pathways at a national or international level?
  • Do you have a proven track record in developing and implementing high-performance sports programs, with an emphasis on inclusivity and equitable access
  • Do you have experience in the use of technology to identify talent and monitor performance?
  • Do you have exceptional communication skills, for engaging with stakeholders at all levels, that build strong relationships?

About the role: 

The Executive Manager - Performance Pathways & Development is a critical executive role responsible for implementing the West Australian Football Commission's (WAFC) vision and strategy to optimise talent identification and development for football in Western Australia. We are seeking a strategic leader with expertise in talent identification and high-performance programming. This role requires a synergistic approach to deliver the most sophisticated and contemporary Australian Rules Football talent pathway in Australia, ensuring equitable opportunities and accessibility for all boys and girls aspiring to play football. This role is responsible for overseeing academy programs and establishing high-performance hubs, driving talent identification, player well-being, and retention strategies, promoting coach development, and leveraging technology to grow talent identification in WA, leading to increased drafting of AFL talent and improved talent and performance in the WAFL and across WA.

About you:

You are a motivational and influential leader of people with a sports science, talent development or coaching background. You will have proven experience in high-performance sport, with a focus on talent development and pathway management, with an emphasis on inclusivity and equity. You have a deep understanding of the sporting landscape in Australia, including the challenges of regional training environments as well as the opportunities in player development. You have experience in technology integration for talent identification and performance monitoring. You will have been in a management or executive role previously that also has extensive interaction with coaches, athletes and external stakeholders.

Key portfolio responsibilities:

  • Talent Identification and Development
  • Development and Oversight of High-Performance Hubs
  • Talent Player Pathway
  • State Academy and National Carnivals
  • High Performance Coach Development
  • Player Retention and Wellbeing

Competencies Required:

  • Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of talent development, competitive structures, and player performance metrics within AFL or comparable sports
  • Computer Literate: Proficiency in data analytics, talent management software, and performance monitoring tools.
  • Planning and Organisation: Strong project management skills to oversee multiple, concurrent initiatives within Competitions, Talent Academies, and other pathways.
  • Analytical Power: Ability to analyse player and program performance data, providing insights that support strategic decisions.
  • Client/Stakeholder Management: Experienced in managing relationships with various stakeholders and ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and goals.
  • Judgement: Sound decision-making skills that balance the organization’s objectives with the needs of its athletes and stakeholders.
  • Teamwork: Proven ability to collaborate with internal teams and external partners to achieve shared objectives.
  • Problem Solving: Critical thinking skills to identify and address challenges within the talent development system effectively.

Application process:

You are encouraged to access a full detailed Position Description by emailing hr@wafc.com.au. We encourage you to visit our website https://www.wafootball.com.au/

All applicants will be required to present a current Police Clearance (no older than six months) and valid Working With Children Card.

Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and resume online via SEEK. Applications close Friday 6th December 5.00pm

https://www.seek.com.au/job/80262254

The West Australian Football Commission is committed to equal opportunity in employment and the principles of diversity. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people with a disability and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.