Outgoing AFL Commission chairman Richard Goyder has praised Craig Drummond’s “deep understanding of football” as the former Geelong president is set to succeed him. Goyder’s 15-year tenure will conclude in March, and he expressed confidence that Drummond is the right person to usher the league into a “new era of growth.”
Drummond, who stepped down as Geelong Cats president at the end of 2024, was chosen over notable candidates including former Collingwood president Jeff Browne and former Western Bulldogs president Peter Gordon. His appointment marks the culmination of an extensive hiring process aimed at finding a leader capable of uniting AFL stakeholders and expanding the game.
Selection Process and Criteria
The announcement comes after the AFL Commission emphasized three key criteria in their selection process: the capability and experience to lead the commission, the ability to unite AFL stakeholders, and a passion and vision to grow the game. Goyder highlighted these priorities, stating, “Our national game is in great shape, but we can’t afford to stand still.”
Goyder continued, “The commissioners and I have every confidence that when my term ends in March, Craig is the right person to lead a new era of growth and engagement with our fans, our clubs, and our broadcast partners. Craig has a deep understanding of football, combined with proven business and leadership capability.”
“His contribution to the game and his professional track record will make him an outstanding addition to the AFL Commission.” — Richard Goyder
Drummond’s Background and Experience
Drummond brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served on the Geelong board for 13 years, including four years as president from 2021 to 2024. His tenure included the club’s 2022 premiership win, a testament to his leadership and strategic vision.
Beyond football, Drummond’s professional background is robust. He served as the chief executive of Medibank following a 30-year career in finance with institutions such as NAB, JBWere, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and Goldman Sachs. Currently, he chairs the Transurban Group, the Australian Foundation Investment Company, and the Ian Potter Foundation, and he is a non-executive director of Ramsay Health Care.
Implications for the AFL
Drummond’s appointment represents a strategic move by the AFL to leverage his business acumen and leadership skills to drive the league’s future growth. His nomination will be presented to AFL clubs at the commission’s March annual general meeting, where the appointment of chair is a formal decision of the commission. While the commission selects its chairman, clubs retain the right to vote for commission members.
This development follows a period of significant change and adaptation for the AFL, as the league continues to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving sports landscape. Drummond’s leadership is expected to focus on enhancing fan engagement, strengthening club relations, and expanding the AFL’s reach both domestically and internationally.
By the Numbers: Drummond’s 13 years on the Geelong board, including 4 as president, and his leadership during the 2022 premiership win.
As the AFL prepares for this leadership transition, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential for innovation and growth under Drummond’s guidance. His track record in both the corporate and sports sectors positions him uniquely to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the league.
Looking forward, the AFL community awaits the formalization of Drummond’s role and the strategic initiatives he will champion to secure the league’s position as a premier sporting organization.
