St Kilda Football Club wishes to advise Executive General Manager Tessie McManus will depart the club at the end of January 2025 to take up a new opportunity outside of AFL.

McManus leaves her post after close to three decades in football operations with Port Adelaide, AFL, Collingwood and St Kilda.

After joining the Saints in August 2021 as its Head of AFLW, McManus played a critical role in establishing a strong foundation for the women’s program, helping to elevate the club’s football operations including player and list management. In addition to her role with the AFLW, McManus also closely supported the men’s program as a key operations lead.

In 2023, McManus was elevated to the club’s executive as its inaugural Executive General Manager - AFLW where she continued to drive the growth of the AFLW program.

Chief Executive Officer Carl Dilena thanked McManus for her commitment and leadership during her time at the club.

“We’re grateful to Tessie for her tireless efforts across seven seasons of AFL and AFLW. Leveraging her area of expertise in footy operations, the professional standards she has set will leave the program in great shape,” said Dilena.

“The men's program has also been fortunate to benefit from Tessie's expertise and we thank her for her dedication.”

Tessie thanked the club for its continued support and opportunities granted during her time.

“After 28 years in the industry, I’ve made the decision to step away and am excited for the new opportunity outside the AFL. It’s a choice made with mixed emotions, as football has been such a big part of my life.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Saints and confident the women’s program is in a position to go from strength to strength to reach the success is so richly deserves.”

“While I’m excited for what’s next, I’ll always cherish the experiences and incredible people I’ve had the privilege to work with.”

The club will look to announce a suitable replacement in the new year.