AFL Partnerships and Networking
After finishing her AFL SportsReady traineeship, Carla Gardiner is now thriving in her new role as the AFL’s Partnerships Account Coordinator.
Having spent three years in the AFL industry, she has built an impressive network and continues to make her mark, especially when the organisation gears up for its busiest time of year—finals season.
We start planning the Grand Final six months in advance, and it’s getting busy now.
We’ve had the VFL Women’s Grand Final, the VFL Grand Final is coming up, and then, of course, the AFL Grand Final. Plus, there’s the Brownlow Medal and September Club—it’s a lot, but it’s exciting!
Networking with corporate partners and assisting with major events is one of the most rewarding and beneficial parts of her job.
There’s something special about setting up a venue at 6:30 in the morning, like the Crown Palladium for an event and then seeing it filled with 600+ people by the evening. You take a moment to stand at the back of the room, watch it all unfold, and realise how much work has gone into it.
It’s such a rewarding feeling.
Although events are part of her role, Carla focuses on commercial partnerships.
I’m heavily involved in the hosting and networking side of things, but I have a soft spot for events. I’ve managed to weave myself into that space since the start of my traineeship.
Carla’s journey into the AFL world started with determination and a willingness to dive into various opportunities.
I did some social media, podcast work, game day production and of course, partnerships during my traineeship. I really broadened my horizons. Everything happens under one roof here, which allowed me to explore different areas.
She credits her time as a Trainee for opening doors.
It all started during the finals period last year. I volunteered to help out other teams and that’s how I got my foot in the door here at AFL House.
Before joining the AFL, Carla worked in multiple areas of St Kilda Football Club including events, hospitality and analysis for two years.
I’m a Saints supporter, so I took the initiative to attend AFLW matches at the club and volunteer within their events team. After numerous months of volunteering during the AFLW Season under Chloe Quarmby, I got offered a position for the following AFL Season. It was a great experience and networking opportunity, but after a while my colleague, Aunty Katrina Amon, suggested I was too comfortable within my role and encouraged me to apply for the AFL SportsReady traineeship for new opportunities.
The advice paid off, and Carla was soon working in commercial partnerships at AFL House.
It’s been amazing staying on in the team after my traineeship. I had the opportunity to work under Kylie Rogers who was the AFL’s Executive General Manager Customer and Commercial and ran the Brownlow Medal. I remember being a fan, watching her do the count and now I get to work with her. It’s so surreal!
Carla has big ambitions and sees her future in the commercial space.
I’m always looking for a challenge, and I see my career continuing in the commercial world.
Her Manager at the AFL, Riley Brettell, is quick to praise her work ethic and growth.
Carla has been immense throughout her 12 months as a Trainee. Her work ethic, desire to learn and people skills have made her a vital member of our team.
She contributed to major AFL events and partnerships and handled a $600,000 community football grant funding program.
Riley adds that Carla’s proactive attitude was noticed by senior figures in the industry.
At Gather Round in Adelaide, Mia Lloyd, General Manager of Coles Liquor, asked, ‘When does her traineeship finish, and how do I get her on my team?’ That speaks volumes about Carla’s impact.
Now, as she moves forward in her full-time role,
Carla reflects on how far she’s come and the importance of pushing herself out of her comfort zone.
It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited for what’s next. Working in the AFL has given me the chance to grow and learn from the best, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.
With over 29 years of experience providing quality job opportunities and launching the careers of thousands of young Australians. AFL SportsReady offers diverse and thrilling opportunities that could take your career to the next level.
So why wait? Kickstart your career today by exploring available Traineeships. If you’re interested in sports management, business administration or any number of other fields. There’s sure to be a role that fits your skills and interests.
Filling out our Expressions of Interest Form is a useful step if you are unable to find a specific job opening. This helps us identify candidates for future opportunities and reach out if a relevant opportunity becomes available.
