The Western Australian Football Commission has officially commenced a nationwide search for its next chief executive, following the impending departure of current CEO Michael Roberts. The organisation has appointed Melbourne-based recruitment firm Six Degrees Executive to spearhead the process, aiming to identify a suitable successor before Roberts concludes his tenure next month.
Executive Search Underway for Leadership Transition
Roberts, who has led the WA Football Commission since January 2021, announced his resignation late last year, with late February confirmed as his final day. His five-year leadership period encompassed significant challenges, including navigating the sport through the COVID-19 pandemic and implementing reforms following a parliamentary inquiry into WA Football in 2020.
The recruitment drive marks a critical juncture for football administration in Western Australia, with the commission seeking an experienced leader to guide the sport's future development.
Qualifications Sought in Prospective Candidates
According to the published job advertisement, WA Football is targeting candidates with substantial senior executive experience within complex sporting, not-for-profit, or commercial organisations. The ideal applicant will demonstrate proven success in leading multidisciplinary teams and fostering high-performance cultures.
A comprehensive understanding of football operations and the Western Australian sporting landscape is considered highly advantageous, along with direct experience in football administration. The commission emphasises the importance of strategic leadership capabilities to advance the sport across the state.
Recruitment Process and Committee Oversight
WA Football Commission chairman Ian Callahan will chair a dedicated sub-committee of the board that will oversee the entire recruitment process. This structured approach ensures thorough evaluation of candidates against the organisation's specific requirements and strategic objectives.
Six Degrees Executive brings relevant experience to the search, having previously completed recruitment assignments for the Australian Football League, along with prominent organisations including Grill'd, Mattel, Koko Black, and Disney.
Unfinished Business for Outgoing CEO
In recent comments to The West Australian, Roberts expressed confidence that a new funding arrangement with the State Government would be finalised before his departure. "We're at a point now where we're just dotting the I's and crossing the T's, and I'm really hopeful that will be locked away before I finish," Roberts stated.
However, several significant challenges will remain for his successor. Roberts acknowledged disappointment about being unable to secure a new administrative home for WA Football, following the de-prioritisation of a proposed move to Gloucester Park.
"That's probably one of the things I am most disappointed about, is not being able to lock that one away. We thought we were in a good position with Gloucester Park, and recently found out it is probably not a priority location for government," he explained.
The outgoing CEO highlighted particular concerns for the talent program, which has operated without permanent facilities since leaving Subiaco. "They've done a tremendous job for what they've had presented to them in terms of access to facilities. That's the biggest challenge for the next individual to come on and it's probably something I won't be able to achieve," Roberts conceded.
Additionally, Roberts is progressing a new funding model with Western Australia's two AFL clubs, though this initiative will likely require completion by the incoming chief executive.
The leadership transition represents a pivotal moment for football in Western Australia, with the new CEO expected to address both immediate operational requirements and long-term strategic development of the sport across the state.
