North Melbourne has appointed its new CEO almost three months after Ben Amarfio’s resignation in early September.
Jennifer Watt is the club’s new boss and comes to Ardern Street with 20 years’ of experience in sports administration across several roles.
Watts has worked with the Melbourne Football Club, the AFL and the MCC. In particular, she spent 14 years at the Demons overseeing the club’s media, marketing and communications.
In a club statement, Watt said: “I’m thrilled to be joining North Melbourne as CEO. It’s an honour to be able to lead the club into the future.
“I’m really looking forward to getting to know the people of North Melbourne. The club is filled with promise, there is so much to be excited about.”
North Melbourne president Sonja Hood said Watt has an extensive understanding of the AFL landscape.
“Jen is an impressive individual. A person of high calibre and driven by strong values, Jen continued to impress throughout the recruitment process and we are thrilled to announce her as our club’s next CEO,” Hood said in a club statement.
“There is a natural alignment of values between both parties. Jen’s collaborative leadership style and focus on developing authentic relationships with her people really stood out to us as a club.
“Her extensive experience at both an AFL club and venue has provided Jen with a deep understanding and knowledge of the complexities of the AFL industry.”
Watt commences her role in late January and continues an upheaval of the club, which has also recently appointed a new coach in Alastair Clarkson and football boss in Todd Viney.
Geelong football boss Simon Lloyd and Fremantle football boss Peter Bell were reportedly among the other candidates to take the Roos job.
North Melbourne is delighted to let you know that following an exhaustive process, the Board has appointed Jennifer Watt as CEO.
— North Melbourne FC (@NMFCOfficial) November 29, 2022
President Dr @Sonja_Hood has shared the news with members in an open letter 📬