The Essendon Football Club has announced the appointment of Anthony Howard AM KC to its Board of Directors, bringing in legal and community experience to replace outgoing Board member Kevin Sheedy in the Bombers' leadership team.
Howard, a former barrister and judge specialising in criminal law, has had a distinguished career, and will begin his newest role October 1, 2024.
He retired as a Judge of the County Court in 2016 and was recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2019ย in recognition of his significant contributions to the legal field, the judiciary, the improvement of professional standards, and his dedication to the Victorian community.
From 2015 to June 2023, Howard also played an active role in the community and international affairs initiatives led by his wife, Linda Dessau AC CVO, who served as Governor of Victoria.
A lifelong Essendon supporter, Howard is also the founding Chair of the club's Lawdons coterie group.
โWe're a great club with a proud and long history. As a lifelong Essendon supporter, I've been connected to the club since I was a young boy and I'm excited about the opportunity to join the board and play a meaningful role in our future,โ Howard said.
โThere's been a lot of positive change in the club since President Barham took over two years ago. Change that will [provide] us the foundations to move forward with excitement. We have the collective purpose to get success for our club and I want to devote my time to that. It has been too long since we've had a successful period.
โOur vision as a collective club goes beyond today, and I can't wait to be part of that.โ
We are pleased to announce that Anthony Howard AM KC has accepted a position on the clubโs Board of Directors.
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) September 19, 2024
Club President David Barham expressed his pleasure in appointing Howard, bringing in a unique array of decision-making credits to help lift Essendon to reach the standards set by successful sides of yesteryear.
โThe Essendon Football Club is delighted to have someone of Tony's calibre join our board,โ Barham said.
โHis extensive legal experience and strong governance credentials will be invaluable as we continue to navigate issues that exist at football clubs.
โTony also brings broad business experience, government relations and outstanding community connections across all areas of society, and he will significantly strengthen our club.
โKevin has made an enormous contribution to this club, and we thank him for his service on the board. He will always be a legend of this club and revered by every Bomber fan and supporter."
