AFL Talent National High Performance Manager

AFL Talent National High Performance Manager Join to apply for the AFL Talent National High Performance Manager role at AFL - Australian Football League About Us As an organisation, the AFL works tirelessly in all states and at all levels to enhance and grow the game – from grassroots to elite. Together we put on the game, deliver important events, communicate with our fans, run community programmes, develop coaches and umpires, collaborate with partners, delight members, support clubs and so much more. While our roles may vary, we are all united by a common goal, to progress the game for everyone to love and connect with Australia’s game. About The Role The AFL Talent National High‑Performance Manager will lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of high‑performance programmes across the AFL Talent Pathway. This role oversees the physical preparation and development of emerging athletes within the AFL Academies, Diversity Programs, and broader Talent Pathway. The position provides strategic direction, leadership, and innovation to ensure the AFL remains at the forefront of athlete development and performance. Key Accountabilities Lead, mentor, and develop the network of Talent Pathway High Performance staff to ensure consistent best‑practice delivery across all programmes. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and consistency across the National high‑performance network. Drive innovation and strategic direction in high‑performance systems, physical preparation and athlete management practices. Develop and drive a national high‑performance framework for the AFL Talent Pathway, aligned with the AFL’s overall talent objectives. Lead innovation and change management initiatives to continuously improve athlete development and high‑performance systems across the pathway. Influence and contribute to the design of the National Talent Calendar, supporting State and Regional preparation for key milestones. Drive consistency and quality assurance across all state and territory talent programmes to ensure national standards are met and best practices implemented. Ensure compliance with AFL policies, safeguarding requirements and athlete wellbeing frameworks. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including state bodies, AFL and AFLW clubs, and external sport science providers. Oversee key performance‑related shared services for the AFL Talent Pathway and AFL Clubs, including Catapult GPS, Teamworks AMS and Rookie Me. Collaborate closely with AFL Medical and Sports Science personnel to align performance, wellbeing and injury prevention strategies across the Talent Pathway. Collaborate with wellbeing stakeholders to ensure holistic development and wellbeing of pathway athletes. Provide leadership, coordination, and quality assurance for the AFL’s Draft Combines and State Testing events. Lead the management and of national AFL Talent Pathway high‑performance programmes, including AFL Academies and AFL Talent Diversity programmes. Collaborate with AFL Talent data analyst to utilise data insights to inform programme improvements, athlete profiling and decision‑making processes. Core Competencies Degree in Exercise Science, Strength & Conditioning, Sports Science or related field (post‑graduate qualification desirable). Extensive experience (ideally 5+ years) in high‑performance sport or elite athlete development, preferably in Australian football or comparable high‑performance environments. ASCA Level 2 or equivalent strength and conditioning accreditation preferred. Demonstrated leadership ability with experience developing and managing multidisciplinary staff. Extensive experience in managing high‑performance programmes within elite or talent development sporting environments. Demonstrated leadership and ability to manage and influence multiple stakeholders at national and state/territory levels. Ability to travel regularly (nationally) and work outside standard hours, evenings and weekends as required. Strong understanding of athlete development, testing protocols and data management systems (e.g. Teamworks AMS, Catapult, Tableau). Excellent communication, collaboration, stakeholder management and organisational skills. Commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and athlete wellbeing. Our Perks Play The Day Your Way – a flexible approach to your working life. My Development – on‑the‑job training, coaching, mentoring and formal learning. Play Well – access to our extensive Health and Wellbeing programme. My Benefits – great benefits and discounts through AFL Corporate Partners. AFL Silver Memberships – permanent team members can access AFL matches at Marvel Stadium and the MCG and bring family and friends. Applications Close Applications Close: 18 November 2025 #J-18808-Ljbffr