Tim Silvers: Leading Culture and Performance in Elite Sport

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, host Paul Edginton speaks with Tim Silvers, CEO of the Adelaide Crows, about leadership inside one of Australia’s most visible sporting organisations. Tim reflects on his journey through the sports industry, from early jobs and a childhood shaped by constant change, to leading major AFL clubs and building culture in high pressure environments. The conversation explores how resilience, connection, and honest leadership shape long term success.Tim shares practical insight into managing performance in elite sport, where feedback is constant and standards are reviewed every week. He discusses bringing young players and their families into a club environment, balancing on field and off field expectations, handling difficult decisions such as delistings and restructures, and why trust must be built through clear communication. He also explains how organisations can create belonging, identify rising talent, and stay aligned during periods of major change, including the challenges that followed Covid.In this episode:• Building resilience through change, uncertainty, and early life experiences• Creating belonging for young talent entering high pressure environments• Leading honest conversations about performance and accountability• Rebuilding trust and culture after disruption and organisational change• Managing difficult decisions while maintaining respect and clarityThis episode is for leaders, executives, coaches, and team builders who want practical insight into culture, performance, and leading people through pressure and change.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit www.ceoadvantage.com.auFor leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.