The Geelong Football Club today announces that Club Executive and Chief Operating Officer Simon Kelleher, will take on a newly created role within the AFL after 6.5 years with the Cats.

As General Manager Club Finance, Performance and Growth, Simon will have strong day to day management responsibility for the AFL’s financial relationship across the league, to continue to progress how the AFL can support clubs to be competitive on field and thrive off field. 

On behalf of the Board, Executive and broader Club, CEO Steve Hocking congratulated Simon and said he will be an excellent addition to the leadership at the AFL.

“Simon has been a key leader in our business and community with a genuine team of all approach, being at the forefront of our AFLW program, gender equity plans and played a pivotal role in steering the club through COVID and the challenges that presented.

Simon Kelleher (far right) with Patrick Dangerfield and Meghan McDonald for the extension of the Deakin partnership.

"The strong financial position the Club finds itself in today, is also a credit to Simon’s progressive thinking and all of the work he has done in his time at Geelong.  

"A well-respected Executive across the entire business, we are excited for Simon and this new opportunity. Having represented two football clubs in his career, Simon will bring a wealth of club knowledge to the AFL.”

Simon said of his new role, he was looking forward to a the challenge and one that will give him the opportunity to be further integrated across the code.

“The game of AFL is in a strong position with a continued growth mindset and being a part of that journey from a club perspective has been very rewarding. Now, I’m looking forward to partnering with all clubs, through club and industry finances and policies, strategy and investment.

Chief Operating Officer Simon Kelleher with Gary Rohan at the launch of the Marathon Foods partnership.

"There are incredible teams within the Geelong Football Club that I’ve been fortunate to work with closely. It will be a great opportunity to continue to work with them in a new capacity.

"My family and I are grateful for our time at the Cats, and we’re thankful for the Club’s support to allow me this new opportunity.”

Simon will finish with the Cats next month (November) and begin with the AFL in the new year.

Prior to being Chief Operating Officer, Simon was Chief Financial Officer at Geelong after three years as CFO at the Carlton Football Club.  

Simon has held several other positions in the sports and entertainment industry including at the Victorian Racing Club, Crown Resorts and a number of directorship roles in related organisations and at community sport level.