Seven congratulate Andrew Dillon as AFL's new chief executive

The Seven Network has released a statement wishing to congratulate Andrew Dillon on his recent appointment as chief executive of the AFL. 

Managing director Seven Melbourne and head of network sport, Lewis Martin congratulated Dillon following the AFL's announcement. 

"On behalf of the Seven Network, we congratulate Andrew Dillon on his worthy appointment as chief executive of the AFL.

"The Seven Network has a long and proud history with the AFL and equally, a long-established relationship with Andrew, that we look forward to continuing as he steps into his new role. 

"As a fellow member of the FightMND board, and a key driver in delivering AFL match broadcasts in the Northern Territory, Andrew and I have worked closely together for many years. In that time, he has continuously shown a great passion, respect and understanding for our great game, and has remained a key leader in all dealings between the AFL and the Seven Network, including several broadcast rights negotiations. 

"Congratulations Andrew, we look forward to working closely together going forward as we look ahead to a new phase of AFL on Seven from 2025." 

The handover of the role will take place at the end of the 2023 AFL season. Dillon has worked at the league in various roles since August 2000 and before his new position, was the AFL's executive general manager of football operations, legal, integrity and general counsel. 

Dillon will officially start his new role on October 2 and he will now act as CEO-elect for the rest of the season. 

In a statement released on Monday by Dillon, he said, "I am honoured and truly humbled to lead the greatest game in the world into its next phase.

"Football has been a defining part of my life and it is a privilege to be able to lead the industry in ensuring our game remains relevant, accessible and welcoming to all Australians."