Sports Presentation and Ceremonies Manager

Rugby World Cup; Sydney; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

CBD Sydney headquarters

Wellbeing initiatives

On-site showers and facilities

Regular team events

Job summary

Rugby World Cup Australia is seeking a Sports Presentation & Ceremonies Manager to plan, coordinate and deliver match-day presentation, ceremonies and entertainment across Rugby World Cup 2027. Based in Sydney CBD, you will partner with venues, teams and partners to create unforgettable experiences for fans, players and stakeholders.

The role requires 3–5+ years’ experience delivering major events, strong stakeholder management, and solid operations and budgeting capabilities to deliver safe,

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years' experience delivering major sporting events or large-scale entertainment.
• Experience planning and delivering Sports Presentation and Ceremonies programs.
• Strong event operations knowledge including venue-based delivery and logistics.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Proven contractor, supplier and agency management experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver Sports Presentation and Ceremonies programs across Rugby World Cup 2027.
• Develop venue-specific operational plans and documentation.
• Manage agency partners, contractors and suppliers, overseeing deliverables and timelines.
• Lead the planning and execution of medal and trophy presentation operations.
• Coordinate event logistics including talent, workforce planning, transport, security, catering and technical production elements.
• Monitor budgets, venue readiness, and compliance with safety and operational requirements.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Project management

Budget management

Communication skills

Organization

Job description

Closing date for applications is 9th November 2026

Full-time Fixed Term Contract starting February 2027 until November 2027

Location: Sydney (Gadigal), Australia

Rugby World Cup Australia (RWCA) is proud to deliver one of the world’s most iconic sporting events — Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027. More than a tournament, it’s a celebration of Rugby’s spirit, Australia’s culture, and the power of sport to unite and inspire communities around the world.

Rugby World Cup Australia is seeking a Sports Presentation & Ceremonies Manager to play a key role in the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2027. Based in Sydney CBD and reporting to the Senior Sports Presentation & Ceremonies Manager, this position is responsible for planning, coordinating and delivering sports presentation, entertainment and ceremonies programs that create unforgettable tournament experiences for fans, teams and stakeholders. Working across multiple venues, you will help bring the tournament to life through the successful delivery of match-day presentation, medal and trophy ceremonies, venue activations and entertainment programs, ensuring consistency, quality and operational excellence throughout the event.

Working closely with Event Operations, Rugby Services, Broadcast, Partnerships and Marketing teams, as well as host venues, contractors, suppliers and delivery partners, you will lead key operational workstreams, develop venue-specific delivery plans and oversee critical event logistics. The role requires a highly organised and relationship-focused professional who can confidently manage multiple projects, coordinate complex stakeholder groups, oversee contractors and budgets, and translate creative concepts into seamless operational delivery. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the world's largest sporting events and help deliver memorable moments on the global stage.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Partner with the Senior Manager, Sports Presentation & Ceremonies to plan and deliver Sports Presentation and Ceremonies programs across Rugby World Cup 2027, ensuring a consistent and engaging experience at every venue.
• Develop and implement venue-specific operational plans, translating tournament concepts and creative programming into practical delivery requirements and venue documentation.
• Manage agency partners, contractors and suppliers, overseeing contractual deliverables, performance, timelines and service delivery outcomes.
• Lead the planning and execution of medal and trophy presentation operations, ensuring all activities align with tournament protocols and presentation standards.
• Coordinate event logistics and operational requirements, including talent, workforce planning, scheduling, transport, security, catering, equipment and technical production elements such as audio, vision and special effects.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders while monitoring budgets, supporting venue readiness activities, and ensuring compliance with all safety, security and operational requirements.

Qualifications & Experience

• 3-5+ years' experience delivering major sporting events, live events or large-scale entertainment programs, ideally within complex, multi-venue environments - mandatory
• Experience planning and delivering Sports Presentation and/or Ceremonies programs, with an understanding of the full event lifecycle from concept development through to execution - advantageous
• Strong event operations knowledge, including venue-based delivery, logistics coordination, risk management and the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and collaborate with internal teams, venues, contractors, suppliers and external partners.
• Proven contractor, supplier and agency management experience, ensuring contractual obligations, deliverables and service standards are achieved.
• Highly organised with strong project and budget management capabilities, able to successfully manage competing priorities, timelines and operational requirements in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative, proactive and resilient approach, with the ability to contribute innovative fan experience ideas, take initiative, adapt to changing priorities and remain calm under pressure.
• Flexibility to travel between host cities and venues as required, and willingness to work outside standard business hours, including evenings and weekends, to support activities and tournament delivery.

Why You’ll Love It Here

• Fixed-term contract offering unique exposure to the delivery of a world-class sporting event.
• Flexible ways of working: Enjoy a hybrid work model with four days per week in the office (Monday to Thursday), transitioning to full-time in the office as tournament delivery approaches.
• Prime CBD location: Work from our modern Sydney headquarters opposite Hyde Park, just a short walk from Town Hall Station and surrounded by great cafés, restaurants and public transport options.
• Wellbeing matters: Access weekly fresh fruit, wellbeing initiatives and regular Lunch & Learn sessions designed to support your personal and professional growth.
• Locker room ready: Take advantage of on-site showers, fresh towels and premium Dyson hair tools to help you refresh and recharge throughout the day.
• A connected team culture: Join a collaborative and social workplace with regular team events, celebrations and weekly catch-ups that recognise success and foster connection.
• Be part of something extraordinary: Play a key role in delivering the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027, one of the world's largest sporting events, and help create a lasting legacy for rugby in Australia.

Australia’s hosting of the Rugby World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow the game, celebrate our people and culture, and deliver lasting social and economic impact. At the heart of our mission is diversity, inclusion, and legacy ensuring Rugby’s growth benefits all and inspires a new generation of players, fans, and communities. Join us in shaping an unforgettable celebration of Rugby, culture, and community.

In setting expectations, there will be a two-stage interview process in the Sydney office.

All applicants need to be able to obtain their own unlimited working rights in Australia. This opportunity does not include a relocation package, so applicants should be prepared to be based in the role location at their own expense.

Rugby World Cup Australia is committed to building a diverse workforce and therefore strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups. We are committed to equality and inclusion and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of their background and are happy to provide reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive workplace, which reflects the global sport we want to be and where everyone can be themselves and feel they belong.