Adelaide Getting on Board Masterclass

About the Program

Facilitated by Women Onside Director Kerry Harris, the Getting on Board Masterclass Series comprises in-depth sessions, each focusing on essential aspects of governance. These sessions provide practical insights, interactive learning, and valuable tools to support your journey towards a governance role in football.

1. The Director Journey This session introduces you to the real-life experiences of seasoned directors in football governance. Learn about the unique responsibilities of board members, the key differences between committees and boards, and the governance obligations that come with these roles. This session will help you understand what it takes to navigate and succeed in governance.

2. Governance 101 In this session, we delve into the foundational principles of governance, starting with what governance truly means—its structures, frameworks, and the importance of equity principles like the 40-40-20 rule. You’ll gain financial literacy skills, including understanding the financial management cycle, key financial terms, budgeting, and how to read financial reports. Additionally, we’ll cover meeting strategies, focusing on the roles of the chair and board members, effective agenda setting, minute-taking, and the importance of a strong committee charter and induction process for ensuring governance effectiveness.

3. Getting There and Being Effective This session is all about taking actionable steps towards securing a governance role and excelling in it. We’ll explore the opportunities in football governance, the nomination and election processes, and the art of purposeful networking. Participants will also work on planning their governance journey, including developing a strong governance CV. This session is designed to provide you with the strategies and confidence needed to not only get into a governance role but also be effective and impactful once you’re there.

Who Should Attend?

This masterclass series is ideal for:

• Women aspiring to take on governance roles in football at any level.
• Current female board or committee members seeking to enhance their governance capabilities.
• Women in football who are passionate about leadership and want to drive change within the sport.

Key Benefits

• Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced professionals in football governance who understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the sport.
• Comprehensive Learning: Gain a thorough understanding of governance principles,      financial literacy, and meeting strategies tailored to the football context.
• Actionable Tools: Access resources and templates to help you navigate your governance journey, including tips on crafting a standout board or committee CV.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with a network of like-minded women who are committed to advancing in football governance.

About the Facilitator 

Kerry Harris is a CPA Fellow, AICD graduate and highly regarded sports administrator.  She has held professional roles in football, AFL and gymnastics as well as working for the 2007 World Swimming Championships, the Australian Sports Commission and the Stawell Gift.  She runs her own consulting business working with clients in for-purpose and sport sectors.

Kerry’s governance roles in football have included Football Australia’s Finance, Audit and Risk Standing Committee, Non-Executive Director on the Board of the former Women’s Soccer Australia and Secretary/Treasurer on the Women’s Soccer WA Committee.  Kerry is also a Life Member of Football West.

Kerry has been involved with women’s football for over forty years across three states from grassroots to international level.  Highlights include tour leader roles with the Matildas and being appointed the USA team liaison manager at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

Additionally, she is a Non-Executive Director with Rocky Bay, Volunteering Australia and Sheep Producers Australia and is an RAC Councillor.