Gillon McLachlan is an accomplished Australian sports administrator who has made a huge contribution to the world of sports.
He was previously the CEO of the Australian Football League, one of the most prestigious and popular sporting competitions in Australia.
Through his leadership and strategic vision, he has helped the league grow and thrive, bringing joy and entertainment to millions of fans.
File
- Full name: Gillon McLachlan
- Stage Name: Gillon McLachlan
- Year of birth: 1973
- Age: 51 years old
- Place of birth: Adelaide, Australia
- Australian citizenship
- Occupation: Australian sports administrator
- Height: 5’8
- Parents: Angus McLachlan and Sylvia McLachlan
- Siblings: 3, Hamish McLachlan, Banjo McLachlan and Will McLachlan
- Spouse: Laura Blythe (married 2003)
- Children: 3, Sydney McLachlan, Edie McLachlan, Cleo McLachlan
- Relationship: Married
- Net worth: $10 million
Early life and education
Gillon McLachlan was born in 1973 in Adelaide, Australia. He was raised by his parents, Angus McLachlan and Sylvia McLachlan, along with his three siblings: Hamish McLachlan, Banjo McLachlan and Will McLachlan.
After completing his secondary education at St Peter’s College as a boarder, McLachlan went on to obtain a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Adelaide in 1995 and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at the University of Melbourne in 1996, where he also attended Trinity College.
Career
Gillon McLachlan had a remarkable career at the AFL, serving for 23 years from 2000 to 2023. During this time, he rose through the ranks, starting as a strategic planning advisor and eventually becoming Deputy Chief Executive.
He held a variety of roles and responsibilities, including General Manager Commercial, overseeing broadcast and major projects, and Managing Director, where he managed broadcast, digital media, fixtures and stadium infrastructure.
His dedication and hard work saw him appointed as Deputy CEO in 2012, a position he will hold until his retirement in 2023.
Despite his successes, McLachlan’s tenure as CEO has not been without controversy, with some criticising his leadership and decision-making, particularly in relation to player welfare and integrity.
Despite this, McLachlan is widely recognised for his business acumen and is credited with securing the largest sports media rights deal in Australian history, founding AFL Media, overseeing the creation of two new AFL clubs and launching the hugely successful AFL women’s competition.
He also led the AFL through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and successfully negotiated a record-breaking broadcast deal.
After stepping down as CEO, McLachlan is now seen as the frontrunner to become Racing Victoria’s new chairman, a testament to his leadership and success in the sport.
Social Media
Gillon McLachlan’s social media accounts are currently unknown.
Personal life
Gillon McLachlan grew up on a sheep farm in South Australia with his three brothers. His father, Angus, was a former first-class cricketer, and his mother, Sylvia, instilled in him a strong sense of empathy.
He is married to Laura Blythe, whom he met at Trinity College. Laura’s father is Brian Blythe, former president of Spotless.
The McLachlans have four children together and make it a priority to spend quality time together as a family. McLachlan’s upbringing on a farm also instilled in him a strong work ethic and love of the outdoors.
Net asset value
Gillon McLachlan is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Football League (AFL) and has held this position since 2014. Prior to that, he held various roles within the organisation, including Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel.
His net worth is estimated at $10 million, making him one of the highest paid sports managers in Australia.
