Geelong CEO Brian Cook made the announcement today at a media conference at Simonds Stadium.
Hocking has been working with the club since 2004, spending the majority of that time as Football Operations Manager. He moved to the role of General Manager Commercial Operations twelve months ago and now returns to head up the football department.
Balme has been in his post for eight years, during which time the club has won three flags and been an annual premiership contender.
“We thank Neil for his outstanding contribution to the club over the past eight years and at the same time welcome Steve as our new head of football,” Cook said.
“Steve has been instrumental in our success over the past decade and has played a key leadership role in both football and at our club. The transition to Steve will be made much simpler by the fact that he has been so involved in our operations at all levels for so long.”
Balme’s decision was not a surprise to the club.
“We were not surprised that Collingwood approached Neil, and to his credit he has kept us up to date throughout those discussions. This has allowed for a smooth transition to Steve, and it has also meant that we can start to formulate a plan to replace Steve as GM of commercial.”
Balme will continue with the Cats until the conclusion of the AFL draft.
