The AFL is pleased to announce Dan Richardson has been appointed to the position of Head of Umpiring within the Football Operations Department.

Richardson succeeds Grant Williams who was recently appointed to a senior role within the AFL Talent team as the National Talent Development and Competitions Manager.

Richardson will be responsible for the development of the senior AFL umpiring panel and will oversee the strategy and expansion for umpiring at all levels of the game, including high-performance elite training, pathway development, participation and recruitment.

His previous positions include leading football programs as General Manager of Football at the Essendon and Richmond football clubs respectively, along with list management and player management experience.

AFL Executive General Manager Football Operations Steve Hocking said Richardson brings a wealth of industry experience across many parts of the game.

“Dan has extensive football experience and knowledge, and is highly regarded across the AFL industry,” Mr Hocking said.

“He brings a clear understanding of high performance, coaching and talent development which will benefit the progression of umpiring nationally.

“We look forward to having Dan as part of the team to continue to grow and support umpiring at all levels.”

Richardson will commence in the role on Tuesday January 12, 2021.