Athletics Tasmania (AT) and Little Athletics Tasmania (LAT) are the two governing bodies responsible for delivering the full spectrum of athletics across the state - from grassroots participation for children and youth, through to Open and Masters competition. Building on the positive momentum within the sport at present, this Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role will drive a unified vision for athletics in Tasmania, and successfully cultivate an effective and efficient operational model for the sport into the future.

The CEO is charged with providing strategic leadership, operational excellence, and cohesive governance to both AT and LAT. Central to this is the journey toward a single, unified operating model - maximizing efficiencies, enhancing participant pathways & services, and delivering an integrated experience for all athletes, coaches, officials, and supporters throughout Tasmania. Growth in all aspects of the sport and the organisation will also be a focus.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The CEO will oversee the day-to-day management of both organisations (AT and LAT) while simultaneously providing strong leadership and governance, as well as spearheading the unification process. Reporting to the respective Boards the CEO will ensure that strategic targets are set and met, resources are efficiently allocated, and that athletics in Tasmania flourishes across all age groups and abilities.

As the leading spokesperson for Tasmanian Athletics, the CEO will cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels: member clubs, coaches, officials, volunteers, sponsors, government, national bodies, and the broader community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership & Unification

• Unification Process: Lead and coordinate the shared-governance transition or potential unification of AT and LAT in line with best-practice models that reduce duplication, streamline administration, and foster a “one sport” culture.
• Long-Term Vision: Collaborate with both Boards to refine a multi-year strategic plan that establishes clear targets in participation, coaching, officiating, performance pathways, and community engagement.
• Pathway Alignment: Develop seamless pathways to attract and retain athletes from the youngest participants through to senior and Masters levels, ensuring strong links between clubs, coaches, and competitions.
• Organisational Culture: Model and embed a positive culture of inclusion, transparency, and innovation that aligns with the values of both Athletics Tasmania and Little Athletics Tasmania.

Governance & Board Engagement

• Policy & Oversight: Advise the Boards on policy matters, risk management, and governance reforms to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.
• Reporting & Accountability: Provide timely, accurate reports against strategic and financial metrics; implement Board decisions promptly and effectively.
• Stakeholder Management: Coordinate regular updates with key partners such as state government, Sport & Recreation Tasmania, Athletics Australia, Little Athletics Australia, and other relevant agencies.

Operational & Financial Management

• Business Planning: Develop annual business and operational plans linked to the broader strategic framework, complete with key performance indicators.
• Financial Stewardship: Oversee the budgeting process, maintain robust financial controls, and ensure effective reporting to both Boards; pursue sponsorship and grant opportunities to reduce reliance on government funding.
• Human Resource Management: Lead, mentor, and manage staff and key volunteers across AT and LAT; foster a high-performance environment that values continuous learning and professional development.
• Risk Management: Establish systems to identify and manage strategic and operational risks, ensuring athlete well-being, volunteer safety, and regulatory compliance.

Commercial & Marketing Development

• Brand & Profile: Act as the figurehead for athletics in Tasmania, enhancing the sport’s visibility and reputation among sponsors, community groups, and the media.
• Revenue Growth: Develop and implement strategies to grow commercial partnerships, sponsorships, and fundraising initiatives; identify new products, events, and services to drive membership and revenue.
• Communications & Public Relations: Oversee external communications (including digital platforms), ensuring stakeholders and the wider community are well-informed of key events, policies, and initiatives.

Program & Competition Delivery

• Integrated Competition Framework: Promote a unified competition calendar that caters to junior, senior, Para, and Masters athletes, minimizing conflicts and ensuring smooth transition points between age groups.
• Coach & Official Development: Lead programs to recruit, train, and support coaches and officials; collaborate with relevant national and local bodies to uphold best practice standards.
• Regional & Community Engagement: Strengthen relationships with clubs across Tasmania; champion inclusive participation opportunities - especially in multicultural and disability segments - to expand the sport’s reach.

KEY DELIVERABLES:

• Unified Strategy: A single strategic plan - with buy-in from both Boards - that drives the future of athletics in Tasmania.
• Shared Services & Reduced Duplication: Clear consolidation of administrative, financial, and operational processes under an agreed structure.
• Participation Growth: A measurable increase in membership and community engagement across all ages and levels.
• Sustainable Financial Model: Diversified revenue streams from sponsorships, government grants, philanthropic support, and new commercial partnerships.
• Enhanced Stakeholder Relationships: Proactive engagement with sponsors, government, member clubs, coaches, officials, volunteers, and the broader athletics community.
• Transparent Governance: Comprehensive reporting and accountability systems, compliant with statutory obligations and consistent with best-practice sports governance.

SELECTION CRITERIA:

Proven Leadership in a Complex Environment

• Demonstrated success in leading organisational change or unification initiatives, preferably in sport or similarly structured not-for-profit sectors.
• Skilled at building consensus across multiple Boards or committees, aligning stakeholders toward common goals.

Strategic & Commercial Acumen

• Track record of devising and executing strategic plans in alignment with broader organisational vision.
• Strong financial management and commercial skills; proven ability to attract sponsorship, oversee budgets, and establish sound governance.

Operational Management & People Leadership

• Experience managing staff and volunteers; adept at conflict resolution and team-building.
• Knowledge of best practice operational frameworks - HR, risk management, digital systems, event planning, membership growth, and marketing.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with an ability to represent the organisation credibly across various forums.
• Demonstrated experience cultivating productive partnerships with government agencies, community organisations, and sponsors.

Personal Attributes

• High integrity, transparency, and accountability in all dealings.
• Adaptable mindset with an openness to innovation and continuous improvement.
• Passionate about the positive impact of athletics and sport on communities, with a commitment to inclusivity and diversity.