Fanatics, the international e-commerce and merchandising giant, has appointed Sarah Flynn as its first general manager for Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) as the company continues its expansion in the region.
In the new role, Flynn will lead the Fanatics Commerce business across ANZ, which the firm states is one of its fastest-growing international markets.
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She will oversee local strategy, market growth, and relationships with key partners in the region. She will be based in Melbourne and report to Stephen Dowling, president of international for Fanatics Commerce.
Australia has become Fanatics’ fastest-growing market outside the United States, with the company revealing that major investment is underway in infrastructure and local talent to support expanding operations.
In recent years, Fanatics has added more new partners in ANZ than in any other region outside North America, teaming up with leagues, clubs, and sporting organizations across Oceania.
Flynn brings more than two decades of retail, wholesale, and commercial leadership experience across Australia and New Zealand.
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By GlobalDataMost recently, she served as group general manager of wholesale at Brand Collective, where she oversaw multiple brand portfolios and led commercial and operational performance.
Before that, she held senior leadership roles at Champion where she served as general manager for the US sportswear brand in ANZ. She also led national sales strategies for Bonds, Berlei, Jockey, Mossimo, and Superdry, managing partnerships with major department stores and retail groups.
Dowling said: “Australia and New Zealand live and breathe sport, so appointing our first general manager in the region is a huge milestone for Fanatics.
“Sarah brings real experience and insight from years working in this market, and we’re excited to have her leading our team in Melbourne and our growth in ANZ. She will play a big role in how we show up for fans across the region.”
Flynn added: “I’m excited to join Fanatics at such an important moment for the business in Australia and New Zealand.
“This region has an extraordinary sporting culture, and Fanatics’ global scale and commitment to fans sets it apart. I’m looking forward to working with our partners and teams to create new opportunities for fans to connect with the sports they love.”
Fanatics’ partner portfolio in the region includes the AFL, Football Australia, Rugby Australia, New Zealand Rugby, Richmond Football Club, Essendon Football Club, Melbourne Storm, and the Australian Olympic Committee.
The company will also support its partners at major international events in the country, including the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup and the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
