Hocking has been a key figure in the club’s football department over the past eight years, and will now take his expertise to oversee the Cats’ commercial ventures.
Blessed with a strong business background that followed his days as a player, Hocking will oversee a department that will look to grow its revenue in the coming years. Strong membership, merchandise and sponsorship growth will be key focus areas for the department.
“Our commercial department is central to the success of the club, driving all of our revenues that in turn fund our various departments, the biggest of course which is football,” Cats’ CEO Brian Cook said.
“Steve has outstanding management and leadership skills, and he will put these to good effect in his new role. Steve is always looking to be challenged and we have no doubt he will bring the same energy and drive to this role as has done over the past eight years in our football department.”
Hocking is excited about the new role and will take up the position from today.
“Growing our commercial areas is a great challenge for everyone involved with the club to ensure that we remain strong within the competitive marketplace that is AFL football and the wider sports and entertainment industry,” Hocking said.
“We have a great club and we all think we have upside in the way we present to our commercial, corporate and membership partners. Our supporters and members will continue to be the key focus for our club. Ensuring excellent returns for our corporate partners through their association with the club will be critical to success of those partnerships and those we will build. It’s an exciting time at the club and we are all looking forward to 2014 and beyond.
“The club has provided me with opportunities to develop my skill set and I look forward to continuing at a club that I began with in 1983. The club provides many people with great opportunities and this is something that none of us should take for granted.”
After returning to Kardinia Park in 2006, Hocking has contributed to the club’s success through planning, management and implementation of all training within the football department as well as the coordination of all medical, fitness and conditioning requirements.
