Essendon has unveiled its new CEO ahead of the 2026 season, announcing vice president Tim Roberts as Craig Vozzo's successor.
Roberts joined the Bombers as a director of the club's board in 2022, and stepped into the vice president role in September last year. He will commence the role on Monday.
Vozzo, who stood down in December due to family reasons and returned to South Australia, will remain with the club as a list and management consultant.
It's Essendon's fourth CEO in three years.
"The platform for success has been created by those who have gone before me, and I am proud to take on this challenge and continue Craig Vozzo's incredible contribution," Roberts said.
"The Essendon I grew up barracking for were league leaders on and off the field, proud of the red and black and seen as a fierce, courageous, confident and bold club. That's my vision for this club, and along with Welshy, our Board and leadership, we are determined to reclaim that space.
"Essendon is a club that should be consistently competing for finals and premierships, be embracing and impactful in our community and commercially sustainable.
"During my business career, I learned that people are the cornerstone of your success and footy clubs are no different. We have terrific talent across our club through the Executive, coaches, staff and playing groups, and our focus is to get the best out of everyone, being galvanised and executing our club strategy."
Vozzo returned to Adelaide, but he will play an integral role in the Bombers' list management strategy, salary cap management and recruiting.
He spent a dozen years at West Coast in various roles before his CEO stint at Essendon, including contracts, list manager and the head of football.
"After Craig made the decision not to renew his contract as CEO and move back to Adelaide, we are rapt to have secured his services and bolstered our football department in the List Management space," Essendon president Andrew Welsh said.
"Craig is held in the highest regard in football circles, and to keep him involved continues to highlight our targeted approach of having the best people in specific areas throughout the Club.
"Craig has been a highly sought-after individual within the industry and made a significant impact at the Club in his time as CEO. We are excited to have secured his services in this new role, supporting the club, including Tim, and we look forward to his impact in a very important space for us."
