Peter Bell steps down from executive role at Fremantle 12 months on from reshuffle

Former player and general manager of football Peter Bell has left Fremantle.

Bell had been moved into a new role at the end of last season, taking on a new position as executive general manager of football talent, strategy and special projects this year.

But he won’t continue next year and said the decision was not made lightly.

“This has been a difficult decision, but one I feel is the right decision,” he said.

“I am extremely proud of my contribution to the club over the years as a player, board member and on the executive team, but I’m keen to explore my next challenge and allow our list managers in David Walls and Darryn Fry to lead the club at the upcoming AFL and AFLW drafts.”

The move means list managers David Walls and Darren Fry will report directly to football boss Joe Brierty in the interim.

Bell played 286 games for the Dockers in two stints between 1995 and 2008 and captained the club, before taking up a role as a board member alongside media positions.

He then joined the club full-time as football boss in 2018, overseeing its rebuild.

“Peter has played a vital role in helping to get our AFL and AFLW programs to the positions they are currently in,” chief executive Simon Garlick said.

“In his time as EGM of football, he oversaw significant list transformations as well as senior coach transitions for both AFL and AFLW. He also led with aplomb during the COVID-impacted seasons and has helped put our club into the position it is today.

“We are extremely grateful for Peter’s contribution and wish him, Lana and his family all the best for the future.”