The AFL Players’ Association is pleased to announce that General Manager of Member Engagement and Programming, Ben Smith, has been appointed as Interim CEO of the AFLPA. 

Smith, who has been on the AFLPA Executive for seven years, will step into the Interim CEO role once outgoing CEO, Paul Marsh, steps away on May 30 as the Board continues the process of searching for a permanent replacement. 

Having overseen the department that manages player development, wellbeing, and Alumni areas for the AFLPA, Smith has strong understanding of the player experience including the unique opportunities and challenges players face during their football careers and in transition. 

Prior to the AFLPA, Smith worked in human resources in the private and public sectors, before joining the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) for 14 years in the General Manager of Player Development and Wellbeing role, including a period as their Acting CEO. 

Chair of the AFLPA Board, Kristen Hilton, said Smith brings a wealth of industry experience to the role. 

“Ben has more than two decades of working for elite athletes in Australia’s two major codes, and that experience will ensure a seamless transition to the Interim CEO role as the Board continues to search for a permanent replacement. 

“We’re delighted Ben is stepping up and are excited to see how his leadership influences what we can achieve for our members in the next period of time.” 

AFLPA President, Darcy Moore, said the strength of the AFLPA’s leaders will ensure the association can continue to build on the strong terms and conditions negotiated through the 2023-27 CBA to support players. 

“We’re fortunate to have a breadth of strong leaders at the AFLPA, including at Board, Executive and delegate level. 

“We’re excited for the immediate future under Ben’s leadership. Alongside Regan Bunny, who performed the role of Acting CEO last year and was recently promoted to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ben, the rest of our outstanding leadership team, and our Board will continue to deliver for all current and past players.  

Smith said he was excited about the opportunity to continue the AFLPA’s legacy and represent and support current and past players. 

“Firstly, I’d like to congratulate outgoing CEO, Paul Marsh, on his extraordinary and dedicated service to our members. Paul leaves behind a wonderful legacy, and I am extremely grateful for the time we have worked together.  
 
“It’s a privilege to step into the Interim CEO shoes at the AFLPA and lead such a passionate, hardworking and committed group of people. 
 
“We are committed to our members’ health, safety and wellbeing and look forward to working with the industry to continually evolve the working conditions of our current playing membership.” 

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