Water Polo Australia (WPA) is the national governing body for water polo sport in Australia. WPA is recognised by the Australian Sports Commission, the Australian Institute of Sport, the Australian Olympic Committee and World Aquatics through Swimming Australia Ltd. 

WPA is a not-for-profit sporting organisation and as the governing body, WPA undertakes numerous tasks and projects across four key business areas to help keep the sport running efficiently and effectively. 

Most importantly WPA strives to ensure everyone involved is having fun, is safe and can perform to the best of their ability. 

About the role

The General Manager - Performance will focus on enhancing performance and sustainability across women's and men's water polo programs, as well as optimising athlete pathways and leadership as we look further toward Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. 

We are seeking a world class leader to inspire and deliver our National High-Performance strategy.      

The intention is that the successful person will be available to begin their new role with us following a successful Paris Olympic campaign.

Reporting to the CEO, the key duties will include:

• Implementation of the current High-Performance Program strategy.
• Strengthen and stabilise our elite Women’s program.
• Bolster our Men’s program to drive development and retainment of world class athletes & people.
• Leadership & management of High-Performance Program staff and support networks.
• Lead and monitor national teams’ performance including plans for pathway to podium athletes.
• Manage a broad range of internal & external stakeholder relationships.
• Monitor, review and manage policies and their application as relevant to the performance programs.
• Prepare and deliver reports to the WPA Board and High Performance Committee as required.

About you

Ideally, we are looking for someone with the following qualifications, skills, traits and experiences:

• A bachelor’s degree or above may be required for an international candidate due to visa requirements.
• Experience in the management and/or administration of HP sport programs at the national or international level.
• A comprehensive understanding of the Australian HP Sport System and international sporting landscape.
• Advanced and proven contemporary leadership skills with the ability to influence.
• Ability to cultivate positive networks and partnerships.
• Experience in senior leadership, management, or high-level coaching positions.
• An authentic, driven individual with high levels of resilience and self-awareness.

Water Polo Australia is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

Position location

Water Polo Australia is flexible on location within Australia.

Subject to visa requirements in the case of an international candidate. The role will require relatively frequent interstate and overseas travel.