AccorHotels has struck a four-year extension to its partnership with Australian rules football league the AFL.
The new contract will continue AccorHotels’ designation as the AFL’s Official Hotel Partner from 2019 to 2022.
In a new addition to the current partnership, AccorHotels will provide career opportunities in hospitality to women in the AFLW league allowing them the flexibility to compete at an elite level, as well as engage in a shared commitment to increasing employment and development opportunities to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through its Indigenous Employment Program.
AccorHotels has partnered with the AFL for the past five years. The company’s chief operating officer for the Pacific region, Simon McGrath, said, according to the Hotel Conversation website: “The relationships and trust that has been established with the AFL and individual clubs across our hotel network remain vital to our ability to deliver the optimal level of support to the players and the clubs.
“Working together, our combined vision is to elevate our strong partnership to increase the representation and leadership of women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in our respective industries.
“We do this through our expertise, vast networks and our brand reach to create meaningful career opportunities, leadership development and cultural engagement in our collective communities.”
AFL general manager of commercial, Kylie Rogers, added: “Supporting the employment program is another step in the AFL’s commitment to increasing the presence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in relative industries.
“Providing these women with endless opportunities to progress off the field ensures long-term growth and a sense of security for life after football.”