Jock O'Callaghan
- Chair, Paralympics Australia
- Vice President, Brisbane 2032
- Finance and Audit Committee, Brisbane 2032
- Former Audit and Finance Committee member, International Paralympic Committee
"My first board role was Treasurer of my local football club - that's where it all started."
Board experience
Jock started his board journey 25 years ago when he put his hand up to help as Treasurer on the board of his local football club, but he has also been involved with boards through his position at PWC, where he worked for 30 years, including 20 as a partner.
“My role with PWC took me into the boardroom in various guides, as an auditor and then as a merger and acquisitions adviser.”
Jock now volunteers as President and Independent Chairman of Paralympics Australia and he is Vice President of Brisbane 2032, the organising committee for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
What Jock brings to his board roles
Jock brings extensive experience to boards in areas including accounting, due diligence, risk, valuations, reporting and leadership.
Tips for aspiring directors and chairs
- Commit to personal growth and always be willing to learn more.
- Work to understand the complexity of the sport system and stakeholders.
- Be careful not to put unrealistic expectations on management. Something that worked in the corporate world, in a public company, may not be fit for purpose in your sporting environment.
- Remember that all sporting organisations are different. Ensure what you recommend is appropriate for the size and capability of the sport.
Tips for sporting organisations
- Look further afield for board directors. Some boards only look for sport and operational experience, but it’s important to bring in other skills. Experience outside of sport is a critical ingredient for successful sporting boards.
- Recognise when the organisation has grown to the point where the board doesn’t need to be so heavily involved in day-to-day club activities and when they can step back.
- Make sure the line between management responsibilities and board responsibilities is clear and regularly visited.