welcome to

NBL Graduate
Development
Program

about the company

The NBL is one of the premier basketball organisations in the world and is home to some of the world’s best athletes. It operates an innovative media platform, always searching for the next growth opportunity, and is truly a sports entertainment experience like no other. The NBL is chiefly responsible for the management and delivery of the men's professional basketball league in Australia and New Zealand. With a focus on success and growth, the NBL's vision and determination, is to be positioned as one of the leading sporting codes in Australia.

The Program

Development Players aren’t just for the courts, we also want them at NBL HQ.
We’re now taking applications for a recent or soon-to-be graduating, Digital &/or social student to join our 2-year Graduate Development Program. This program gives graduates the necessary experience and skills to use in the real world and put all their learnings to the ultimate test. Not only will graduates gain incredible exposure to their chosen field, they’ll also get to learn from some of the industry’s best and have the opportunity to network and build relationships across the sports and business sector. Graduates will receive an all-access, behind-the-scenes pass and experience what it takes to bring the competition to life.

ROLES

New roles will be advertised shortly.

APPLY NOW

General Manager Digital - Rob Burton

Starting his career at Fox Footy straight out of high school, Rob established himself in the broadcast and production space.
After gaining valuable experience in a high-pressure environment, he then moved to Channel Nine News, working in the production team to deliver live broadcasts.In 2008, Rob got back into sport and the Australian Football League, working at the North Melbourne Football Club. He spent 13 years at the club, leading the club’s digital and social team.He then joined the NBL, leading up the Club Engagement Team and working with ten teams on their digital, marketing and social strategies.
In 2022, Rob became the league’s GM – Digital & Content, working with an innovative team in growing the NBL’s digital and social platforms to new levels.

“The greatest challenges are the ones that are uncomfortable. Test yourself, put yourself in tough situations and you’ll get the most reward.” – Rob Burton

Director of Broadcast and Production - Tony Skinner

Experience over several decades in media, across numerous countries, cultures, and languages with the ability to remain relevant through a time of dynamic technological and social change has provided Tony with a level of knowledge and connectivity in the media industry few people achieve.
Creativity has been a cornerstone to his career however Tony’s greatest achievements have been through collaboration, management, and partnerships with people he has worked alongside or related to as clients.
Tony's journey has provided exposure in Europe, UK, US, Asia, New Zealand alongside his home country Australia, and given him a level of connectivity in the media industry, particularly in Asia, that is both unique and far-reaching.
Sustainability in the ever-changing media industry for such a long time can only be achieved if you are adaptable, inspired by change, and willing to learn every day. Tony possesses these qualities.

“Experience is the key to all knowledge, seize the moment, make the most of the opportunity, add value and know that collaboration is the key to success” – Tony Skinner

General Manager Licensing, Branding and Community - Kylie Hitchener

A passion for sport during childhood steered Kylie to study a Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement), followed by a post graduate degree in Sport Management. After completing her studies at university, Kylie fell into the sport of basketball and has been involved ever since.
Commencing her professional career at Basketball Victoria provided Kylie not only the opportunity to complete an Advanced Certificate in Sport and Recreation, but to learn and experience all facets of the sport in the varied roles she undertook during her tenure with the state’s governing body.
This ranged from grassroots participation to high performance, working closely with the affiliated state associations and Basketball Australia, leading marketing, communications, and eventually becoming Head of Partnerships and Events.

Kylie’s experience and in-depth knowledge in basketball led to the role of General Manager, Community and Outreach at Melbourne United Basketball. This position entailed working closely with the high-performance team, developing the community portfolio of the club, partnerships with various charity groups as well as creating the Melbourne United Basketball Academy and the Diploma of Sport/Diploma of Business program in partnership with SEDA.
After eight seasons and two Championships, Kylie was presented the opportunity of General Manager, Licensing Brand and Community with the National Basketball League (NBL), where she continues to lead and innovate.

“It is a privilege to work in the sports industry. Be prepared for the hard work and the rewards will follow. Take every opportunity that presents itself and immerse yourself in the learning opportunities and invaluable experience. Always strive to be your best, authentic and gain the respect of your colleagues. It’s a journey and you will meet inspiring people along the way.” – Kylie Hitchiner

Chief Commercial Officer - Brad Joyner

Brad Joyner was appointed Chief Commercial Officer of the National Basketball League (NBL) in October 2018.
In this role he is responsible for the groups P&L, broadcast / media & betting rights, merchandise and licensing, M&A and has developed the commercial strategy which underpins the sustained growth of the NBL’s commercial pillar.
In addition to the NBL role Brad is also an active board director.
Brad previously held the post of Director of National Sales and Business Development at Telstra.
During his tenure as the National Director of Sales, Joyner led a National Sales Team that delivered significant business and customer growth, responsible for over $500m in group revenues.

HISTORY OF THE LEAGUE

The National Basketball League is regarded as one of the premier basketball leagues in the world, and after a humble beginning, is today home to some of the world’s best players.

In 1978, New South Wales Basketball president John Raschke sat with 10 interested parties in an unused aircraft hangar at Sydney Airport to discuss the formation of a national competition that would help the development of the sport throughout Australia.

A national competition was seen as a way of improving the standard of players who would compete for Australia at international events such as the Olympic Games and World Championships. with the Australian Boomers now considered a world power.

While NBL games were initially played in small suburban stadiums, clubs now perform at major Australian arenas, including RAC Arena which can seat 14,000+ spectators, and Qudos Bank Arena, which hosted over 15,000 fans for the 2021/2022 Hungry Jack's NBL Grand Final.

about the benefits

  • Competitive salary and career progression opportunities
  • Work for a League that is entering its most exciting phase of growth
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Convenient Queens Road office
  • Work with a collaborative and passionate team

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

We can't wait to hear from you. Please note: Due to the high volume of applications anticipated, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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