After predecessor’s controversial 24-hour tenure AFL’s Essendon FC name new Chief Executive

The AFL’s Essendon Football Club has announced the appointment of Craig Vozzo as its new Chief Executive.

Vozzo, who will move from the Chief Executive’s job at the West Coast Eagles, will replace predecessor Andrew Thorburn in the role.

Thorburn from the role in early October, just one day after his appointment, due to his role as Chair of a church with divisive views around abortion and homosexuality.

Vozzo served as the Eagles’ list manager before becoming General Manager of Football (with the club winning the premiership in 2018). In 2021 he became Chief Executive at the close of 2021.

Commenting on the appointment, Essendon President David Barham said Vozzo had a proven track record in delivering on-field results, stating "Craig is a terrific person who understands what’s required to build a strong and successful football club.

"His experience in delivering football results and driving a high-performance environment was a key factor in his appointment as our next CEO.

"He is a well-rounded individual with diverse experience and background. He has strong personal values and a track record in leading and developing people to achieve strategic goals.

"The external review stated we need to focus more on our core business of football and with Craig, we have someone with proven results in that area.

"He is a well-respected person within the AFL industry and has impressed with his ability to lead and develop people to be their best.

"We look forward to Craig starting with us in the New Year for what is an exciting time for the Essendon Football Club."

Advising that he was honoured to join the Bombers, Vozzo noted "I am incredibly honoured to be given this opportunity to join the Essendon Football Club. This club has a rich and proud history and I feel privileged to be able to lead us into what is a very exciting future for the club.

"I look forward to building relationships across the club and working closely with the Board, Brad Scott and the executive team."

Vozzo will commence at Essendon on 16th January.

Image credit Twitter/@essendonfc.