Tim Roberts Appointed Essendon CEO

The Essendon Football Club has appointed current VP Tim Roberts as its new CEO, effective 16 February 2026.

Roberts, who joined the Board as a director in 2022, succeeds Craig Vozzo following a targeted search for a leader capable of executing the club’s long-term strategic growth framework while providing much-needed cultural continuity.

Commenting on Robert’s appointment, Essendon president, Andrew Welsh, cited Roberts’ intricate knowledge of the club as a key factor in the appointment.

“Tim has successfully built global businesses across a range of industries… we are excited he can bring that experience and commercial acumen to his new role as CEO,” Welsh said.

Roberts will maintain his seat on the Board to ensure total “alignment and ownership” in driving the club’s off-field success.

Expressing a clear vision for the club’s identity, Roberts, aims to reclaim Essendon’s status as a fierce and courageous league leader.

“The Essendon I grew up barracking for were league leaders on and off the field… That’s my vision for this club and along with Welshy, our Board and leadership, we are determined to reclaim that space,” he said.

Roberts brings over 30 years of international corporate experience from construction consulting giant WT Partnership, where he rose to lead the organisation across Australia, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. His commercial awareness is viewed as a critical asset for the Bombers as they navigate a phase of significant infrastructure and community expansion, including the establishment of the AFLW team at Windy Hill.

In a move to strengthen the football department, the club also confirmed that Craig Vozzo will remain involved as a List and Recruitment Consultant.

Vozzo, who relocated back to Adelaide for family reasons, will oversee list management strategy and salary cap management, ensuring the club retains his highly-regarded football operations expertise during this leadership transition.

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