Clontarf Foundation Executive and Leadership Team

Gerard Neesham, the Chief Executive Officer at Clontarf Foundation, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the organization's critical mission. Neesham guides the Foundation's expansion across Australia, ensuring its unique model effectively addresses the challenges faced by young Aboriginal men. Overseeing the development and implementation of programs that leverage Australian Rules Football and Rugby League, Neesham ensures these sports serve as powerful vehicles for school retention and personal growth. This leadership involves fostering strong partnerships with schools and communities nationwide, a key component in maintaining the Foundation's high retention rates. Gerard Neesham's strategic direction ensures the organization's continued impact on academic engagement, discipline, and employment prospects for participants. The Chief Executive Officer's role is central to sustaining the Foundation's proven success in re-engaging at-risk students with their education and building confidence.

Craig Brierty, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Clontarf Foundation, provides essential support to the Chief Executive Officer in executing the organization's strategic objectives. Brierty plays a crucial part in the day-to-day management of operations, ensuring the effective delivery of programs across numerous schools and regions in Australia. This involves close collaboration with regional staff and school partners to maintain the integrity and impact of the Clontarf academies. Craig Brierty's responsibilities extend to overseeing key initiatives that enhance participant engagement and program outcomes, directly contributing to improved school attendance and discipline. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer's focus is on operational excellence and supporting the Foundation's mission to improve life outcomes for young Aboriginal men. Brierty ensures the seamless functioning of the support systems that underpin the Foundation's success in fostering self-esteem and confidence.

Jane Conder, the Chief Financial Officer at Clontarf Foundation, manages all financial aspects of the organization's extensive operations across Australia. Conder oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the sustainable growth and effective deployment of funds to support the Foundation's mission. This role is critical in maintaining the financial health necessary for expanding the reach of Clontarf academies and supporting approximately 4,700 participants. Jane Conder's expertise ensures compliance with financial regulations and optimizes the use of resources to maximize program impact on youth development. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight is vital for securing the long-term viability of initiatives aimed at improving academic engagement and employment prospects for young Aboriginal men. Conder's financial acumen directly supports the Foundation's ability to operate across multiple states and territories.

James McNamee, the Chief Operations Officer at Clontarf Foundation, directs the implementation and management of the Foundation's operational framework across its network of academies. McNamee ensures that the distinctive model, which uses football to drive school engagement, is executed effectively in each partner school. This involves overseeing the work of full-time, locally based Clontarf staff who provide mentoring and counseling, ensuring a consistent and supportive environment for participants. James McNamee's operational leadership is key to maintaining the high year-to-year retention rates and significantly improved school attendance outcomes observed across the program. The Chief Operations Officer's focus is on the practical delivery of academy programming, encompassing education, leadership development, and life skills training. McNamee's role is fundamental to the Foundation's success as a proven school-engagement mechanism for at-risk students.