Aussie rules leader Brian Cook AM says his long career has been influenced by a sense of purpose and strong values.  

“My purpose has been ‘to do well, to do good, and to do right’ in my professional and personal life,” he says.  

He has been CEO of three different AFL clubs over the past 36 years, starting at West Coast Eagles, then Geelong Football Club, and now at Carlton Football Club.  

Outside of football, Brian has shown leadership within a number of community organisations including as chair of Barwon Health, patron of the Wombat’s Wish program, director of Tourism Victoria and Zoo Victoria, as a Champions of Change advisor and as an adjunct professor at Deakin University.  

He was appointed a Member of the Order for significant service to Australian rules football, to business, and to the community.  

“[This recognition] is not only a thank you for my service, but also a reinforcement of my values-based leadership that I try to demonstrate as often as possible,” he says.  

“I love seeing the joy on faces of fans through Australian rules football and sport generally, I love watching athletes grow into better athletes and citizens, watching players and staff becoming team people, and meeting good people through sport.  

“I love leading organisations that continually improve. And, I love winning.”

Following his own recognition, Brian emphasises the importance of acknowledging the work of others.

“There are so many wonderful people doing so many wonderful things in Australia. Often, these people go through life not being recognised.  

“They are often the ‘little people’, not necessarily the appointed leader but someone in middle management or lower or a volunteer, someone others trust and respect implicitly.

“I feel very grateful to be recognised for my service. It’s a very proud moment for me, and to share with my wife Claire, children, grandchildren, work colleagues and friends.  

“I want to love and thank ... all the people who I have learned from during my life.”