WA Football (WAF) is the caretaker of football across Western Australia (WA) and one of the most significant sporting organisations in the State. With a proud history dating back to 1885 and almost 100,000 registered participants, football is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of WA. WA Football is entering an exciting new phase with the commencement of its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, guided by the vision of "The game for all Western Australians" and a commitment to growing the game sustainably through Growth, Equity & Access, and Future Proofing. We are now seeking an outstanding, values-driven leader to join the organisation as Chief Executive Officer.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Board, the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the overall strategy, leadership, management and performance of WA Football. The CEO will lead the organisation through a period of strategic delivery and evolution, ensuring strong governance, sustainable growth and deep engagement across all levels of the game. This is a rare opportunity to lead the peak body for football in Western Australia, overseeing community football, talent pathways, umpiring, game development, the WAFL and WAFLW competitions, and the ownership of the AFL licences for the Fremantle Football Club and the West Coast Eagles.
Key Responsibilities
As CEO, you will:
Lead the execution of WA Football's strategic and operational plans in alignment with Board direction
Foster a high-performance, values-led culture and develop a capable, engaged executive and workforce
Represent WA Football with authority and credibility across government, AFL, clubs, sponsors, media and the broader community
Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including State Government, AFL, WAFL clubs, Fremantle Football Club and West Coast Eagles
Drive participation growth and ensure the sustainable development of football at all levels
Oversee financial performance, risk management, governance, compliance and organisational sustainability
Act as WA Football's principal ambassador, advocate and spokesperson
About You
You are a people-focused, commercially astute leader with the presence, credibility and passion to lead one of Western Australia's most important sporting organisations.
You will bring:
Proven senior executive leadership experience in a complex sporting, not-for-profit or commercial organisation.
Demonstrated success leading multi-disciplinary teams and building high-performance cultures
Strong strategic thinking capability, with experience navigating change and complex stakeholder environments
Exceptional stakeholder engagement, negotiation and communication skills
A strong track record in financial management, governance and risk oversight
Experience working closely with a Board and delivering against strategic objectives
A strong understanding of football and the WA sporting landscape, along with experience in football administration, will be highly regarded
Applications
WA Football welcomes applications from candidates who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.
For a confidential discussion or to request further information, please refer to the application details provided in this advertisement. Applications should include a cover letter and résumé outlining your suitability for the role. All direct applications will be sent to Six Degrees Executive.
Six Degrees Executive acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and live. We are also committed to equal opportunity and strive to promote diversity, inclusion, belonging, flexibility, and accessibility in all that we do.
Should you require assistance in your interactions with us or through a recruitment process, please let us know so we can provide adjustments for you.
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