The AFL Players’ Association has today announced the appointment of Paul Marsh as Chief Executive Officer.
Marsh becomes the sixth AFL Players CEO, succeeding previous CEO Matt Finnis.
Paul Marsh joins the Association following nine years as the Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Cricketers’ Association.
Marsh previously worked at the Port Adelaide Football Club as Sales and Marketing manager and then moved to the Australian Cricketers’ Association in 2001, as manager of Member Services and Operations.
“We’ve conducted a thorough recruitment process for the CEO position and are honoured to have secured someone of Paul’s calibre.” – Luke Ball
AFL Players’ President Luke Ball said, “We are delighted to announce Paul Marsh as the new CEO of the Players’ Association.
“We’ve conducted a thorough recruitment process for the CEO position and are honoured to have secured someone of Paul’s calibre.
“Paul’s experience across multiple CBA negotiations in his previous role have delivered significant results for players each time.
“His demonstrated track record, and expertise in working across numerous stakeholder groups, coupled with his international experience, will add significant value to the Players’ Association.”
Speaking about his appointment, Paul Marsh said, “I have huge respect for the AFL Players’ Association and its members. While it was a very difficult decision for me to leave the ACA, I’m very excited about the opportunity and the challenges ahead.”
“My leadership belief is based on a partnership approach to achieve better outcomes through collaboration with all key stakeholders working together.
“Central to this, is my strong view that as key stakeholders of our game, players deserve a fair share of the game’s revenues that they help generate, and continue to have their voices heard on all issues pertaining to players and the game.
“Equally, I am committed to the Players’ Association strategy of the development and implementation of programs and services to players that benefit the individuals, the industry and ensure we deliver a first class sporting workplace to our athletes,” Marsh said.
Marsh holds a Bachelor of Commerce and is also studying for a Masters of Business Administration.
Luke Ball also thanked Acting CEO, and General Manager of Player Relations, Ian Prendergast, for leading the Association over the past few months.
“On behalf of the Board, I’d like to thank Ian Prendergast for his ongoing commitment to the Players’ Association, as we continue to achieve greater outcomes for players and the game.”
Paul will commence in the position of CEO at the Players’ Association on the 1st September.