Essendon Appoints Tim Roberts as New CEO Ahead of 2026 Season
Essendon Football Club has officially announced its new Chief Executive Officer, Tim Roberts, who will step into the top leadership role in preparation for the 2026 AFL season. Roberts, a respected figure within the club, will succeed Craig Vozzo, marking a significant transition for the Bombers.
Roberts brings a wealth of experience to the position. He initially joined the Essendon board as a director in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to the club’s strategic direction. His involvement deepened when he assumed the role of vice president in September of the previous year. He is set to officially commence his duties as CEO on Monday.
The appointment comes after Craig Vozzo’s decision to step down from the CEO role in December, citing family reasons that necessitated a return to South Australia. However, Vozzo’s expertise will remain a valuable asset to the club, as he will continue to contribute as a list and management consultant. This move ensures that Essendon benefits from his extensive knowledge in key operational areas.
This leadership change represents Essendon’s fourth CEO appointment in the past three years, highlighting a period of significant strategic evolution for the club.
Roberts Outlines Vision for Essendon’s Future
Tim Roberts expressed his enthusiasm and determination to build upon the foundations laid by his predecessors. “The platform for success has been created by those who have gone before me, and I am proud to take on this challenge and continue Craig Vozzo’s incredible contribution,” Roberts stated.
He elaborated on his vision for the club, drawing inspiration from his personal connection to Essendon. “The Essendon I grew up barracking for were league leaders on and off the field, proud of the red and black and seen as a fierce, courageous, confident and bold club. That’s my vision for this club, and along with Welshy, our Board and leadership, we are determined to reclaim that space.”
Roberts articulated a clear ambition for the Bombers: “Essendon is a club that should be consistently competing for finals and premierships, be embracing and impactful in our community and commercially sustainable.”
He emphasised the crucial role of people in achieving these goals. “During my business career, I learned that people are the cornerstone of your success and footy clubs are no different. We have terrific talent across our club through the Executive, coaches, staff and playing groups, and our focus is to get the best out of everyone, being galvanised and executing our club strategy.”
Vozzo’s Continued Influence in Football Operations
Despite his relocation to Adelaide, Craig Vozzo’s strategic input will remain vital to Essendon’s football department. His ongoing role as a list and management consultant will see him play an integral part in the Bombers’ list management strategy, salary cap management, and recruiting efforts.
Vozzo’s impressive resume includes a dozen years at West Coast Eagles, where he held various influential positions before his tenure as CEO at Essendon. His experience encompasses crucial areas such as contracts, list management, and heading up the football department.
Essendon President Andrew Welsh spoke highly of Vozzo’s continued involvement. “After Craig made the decision not to renew his contract as CEO and move back to Adelaide, we are rapt to have secured his services and bolstered our football department in the List Management space,” Welsh commented.
He further highlighted Vozzo’s standing within the AFL community. “Craig is held in the highest regard in football circles, and to keep him involved continues to highlight our targeted approach of having the best people in specific areas throughout the Club.”
Welsh acknowledged Vozzo’s significant impact as CEO and expressed excitement about his new role. “Craig has been a highly sought-after individual within the industry and made a significant impact at the Club in his time as CEO. We are excited to have secured his services in this new role, supporting the club, including Tim, and we look forward to his impact in a very important space for us.”
