zone development leader

OUR VISION
The game loved by all South Australians
About The Role
Join the team that supports footy participation across SA

• Sports industry leadership role
• Build community connections with SANFL, South Adelaide Football Club, Schools, and local community clubs across the zone.

This role is an integral part of the SANFL Game Development team. Based across South Adelaide's metro and country zones, this role is responsible for participation programs and will develop effective relationships with SANFL, AFL, Community clubs, and volunteers.

Role Responsibilities Are Summarised As Follows

• Zone Development – Drive the zone strategy to grow participation and quality experiences in Auskick, Superkick, Sporting Schools, SANFL Schools, Community football and growth markets. Evaluate program quality and deliver continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the participant experience, transition, and retention objectives.
• Leadership – Coach and develop casuals, volunteers and students
• Administration – Provide outstanding communication, administration and support projects as required.

This role will require regular weekend and some evening work throughout the football season and travel across the zone.  The role is provided with a fully maintained vehicle however, strong consideration will be given to candidates that reside in close proximity to the zone.

To view the position description please Click Here

a Bit About You
You will be an experienced leader with a demonstrated knowledge of Australian Rules junior participation programs, and the SA school environment. Your skills will role model success, whilst developing others and achieving SANFL's strategic objectives. You will thrive in an environment that balances accountability with empowerment and be an outstanding brand ambassador in promoting football pathways.

Your ability to deliver this will be underpinned by the following:

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualifications
• DHS Working with Children Check (including Catholic Schools Check)
• Current South Australian Drivers Licence
• First Aid

Essential Criteria

• Strategic planning and ability to achieve results
• Experience building relationships with key stakeholders
• Effective people management, leadership and communication skills
• An empathy and understanding of Australian Rules football at various levels
• Experience in working with children in a school and/or sporting environment
• Working knowledge of Child Safe Environment Practices
• Demonstrated working knowledge of the volunteer workforce

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working with volunteers in a sporting club environment
• Coaching experience

Skills and Knowledge

• Experience in Microsoft Office programs
• Strong administration and planning skills
• Flexibility in work schedule, including weekends
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

a Bit about Us
Our people are the heart of what we do.  We are highly collaborative, team first orientated and of course FUN Working relationships are authentic and we strive for and encourage progressive thought.  In an inclusive environment, we care for and support each other.  We offer some great benefits such as Ultimate Football Memberships, SANFL season passes, flexible work, wellbeing and social activities and access to industry competitive leave entitlements.

Applications close 30 September 2025 and should be submitted as a single PDF document. Please note SANFL may undertake some shortlisting and interviews during the application open period.

Enquiries To
People & Culture

E:

SANFL celebrates the lands throughout South Australia on which we are privileged to play our great game. We pay respect to all First Nations Peoples, past and present, and thank them for their generosity as custodians of Country.
We recognise the profound contribution First Nations players, coaches, and officials have made to our game, we celebrate their heritage and culture and support their continued spiritual connection to Country. We value their guidance in our endeavour to connect communities through the game loved by all South Australians.