Country Participation Manager

Job Description

Do you enjoy working collaboratively in an energetic environment? Want to make a difference in the football community? About us: The West Australian Football Commission (WAFC) is the peak Australian Rules Football body in Western Australia and plays a key leadership, governance and funding role to football throughout the State, whilst also driving the overall development and growth of the sport. The WAFC is a not-for-profit organisation that plays an important role in the on-going development of football across all communities. We are passionate about what we do and the people we work with. Our environment is welcoming, diverse, collaborative and team driven. Our values: Our organisational values are front and centre of everything we do. Every service we provide, every interaction we have, and every employee behaviour provides evidence and validates these values: Our People Being our very best Our relationships Working at the WAFC is more than just a job, you will be joining our WAFC family, you will love what you do and the people you work with. Job Description Key Focus of This Role: The Country Participation Manager provides leadership and oversight to grow the game of football across WA’s eight regional areas. This role drives participation growth, enhances football pathways, and creates positive game day environments tailored to regional communities. The role also focuses on delivering development programs (including modified formats), fostering inclusivity across key demographics—including women and girls, Indigenous players, and multicultural communities—and supporting the development of coaches, umpires, and players.Please Note - This is a Perth based role with regional travel commitments. Please consider this in your application. Key Focus Areas: Lead football participation across regional WA by driving initiatives that increase player, coach, and volunteer engagement in eight regional areas. Develop and expand football pathways by creating programs that transition players from schools and community settings into structured competitions. Champion diversity and inclusion by growing women’s and girls’ football, Indigenous participation, and multicultural engagement across regional communities. Oversee regional development programs such as Auskick, AFL 9s, and coach & umpire development to strengthen grassroots football. Lead and support a regional team by managing and mentoring Regional Football Specialists to deliver high-quality football programs across WA. Engage with key stakeholders and communities by building strong partnerships with schools, clubs, leagues, AFL and WAFL clubs local organisations to grow the game. Use data to drive growth and innovation by tracking participation trends, measuring program impact, and making evidence-based strategic decisions. Shape the future of country football in a leadership role that offers the opportunity to travel, work closely with regional communities, and implement meaningful change. Desired Skills and Experience EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO UNDERTAKE THE POSITION: Demonstrated knowledge of participation and club football programs within WA Football. Demonstrated knowledge of key drivers of participation and growth strategies, particularly in country regions Tertiary qualification in sports management, business, or a related field or at least 5 years equivalent industry experience. Demonstrated knowledge of the WA Football structure and system, with a particular focus on country regions. Demonstrated ability to lead and interact confidently with football stakeholders, including clubs, leagues, schools, and community organisations. Demonstrated sound verbal and written communication skills that deliver messages to a wide range of stakeholders internal and external to the organisation in a clear and engaging manner. A proven ability to innovate and implement solutions that address regional football participation challenges. Proven organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities and deliver effective outcomes. Capacity and willingness to work outside of normal business hours and on weekends when required Demonstrated ability to succeed in a high-volume work environment, managing competing priorities effectively. A self-motivated individual who achieves results autonomously or through teamwork. Proven customer relationship and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster collaboration among diverse groups. Experience in designing and implementing participation programs for underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous or multicultural communities. Other: Possession of a current Working with Children Clearance and/or willingness to obtain (E) Possession of a current Police Clearance and/or willingness to obtain (E) Possession of a current WA Drivers Licence (E) Why work for us: We facilitate an infectiousculture that makes coming to work a rewarding experience. Company laptop Work Vehicle Fuel allowance Birthday leave EAP service Salary Packaging Access to professional development All applicants will be required to present a current Drivers Licence, current Police Clearance (no older than six months)and a Working With Children’s Card. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and resume online via SEEK. Applications close 4pm, Monday 17th February 2025. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr