Venue Operations Director - Vancouver

FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Join FIFA26 as the Venue Operations Director in Vancouver, where you'll lead stadium operations for the FIFA World Cup 26. This pivotal role involves coordinating with multiple stakeholders to ensure seamless event delivery, managing complex projects, and contributing to the success of this historic sporting event. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in stadium management and a passion for sports, along with strong leadership and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years in stadium operations management for professional sports.
• Proven experience managing complex projects, especially international sports events.
• Fluent in English; French proficiency is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Establish communication channels with stakeholders.
• Supervise stadium renovation and construction projects.
• Manage on-site support for internal departments.

Skills

Leadership

Decision Making

Problem Solving

Communication

Initiative

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

MS Office

AutoCAD

Project planning software

Job description

Application Deadline: 4 June 2025

Department: Tournament and Venue Operations

Location: Vancouver

Description

At FIFA26, our vision is to unite the world through the greatest sporting event of all time. The FIFA World Cup 26 will feature 48 teams and be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA. This new format will redefine excellence and create opportunities for greater participation and engagement globally. Join us to be a part of this extraordinary experience.

The Position

Main activities and responsibilities

Reporting to the Executive Director Stadium & Venue Management - Canada, the Venue Operations Director - Vancouver will be a key member of the FIFA26 CAN Operations team. This role involves working closely with FIFA26 CAN Headquarters, FIFA26 USA/Miami, and FIFA Zurich Venue Management to ensure the successful delivery of FIFA World Cup 26 in Vancouver.

The responsibilities include:

• Establishing communication channels with FIFA26 CAN, FIFA, local authorities, and stakeholders.
• Integrating operational and overlay deliverables into venue plans.
• Assessing and validating event requirements against the stadium's capabilities.
• Coordinating policies and planning with FIFA and local authorities.
• Participating in workshops, seminars, and meetings.
• Contributing to project and knowledge management activities.
• Planning and delivering test events.
• Supervising stadium renovation and construction projects.
• Coordinating with stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.
• Managing on-site support for internal departments and stakeholders.
• Organizing stadium inspection tours.
• Providing support during site visits and activities.
• Managing the FIFA26 Vancouver Venue office.
• Overseeing FIFA26 CAN Operations at Vancouver Stadium during events.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Travel within Canada, the US, and Mexico may be required.

FIFA World Cup 26 Skills Framework

Accountability: Demonstrate responsibility, analyze actions objectively, and learn from mistakes.

Decision Making: Make swift decisions, take initiative, and respond to unforeseen circumstances.

Inclusivity: Share information, influence others positively, and maintain support networks.

Initiative: Innovate and produce new ideas.

Leadership: Lead teams, encourage teamwork, delegate, and utilize skills effectively.

Vision: Understand organizational impact, anticipate consequences, and develop strategic plans.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Team player, able to work under tight deadlines.
• Solution-oriented with problem-solving skills.
• Positive attitude, patience, persistence.
• Ability to prioritize and work efficiently under pressure.
• International and cross-cultural experience is preferred.

Work Experience

• At least 8 years in stadium operations management for professional sports or major sporting events.
• Proven experience managing complex projects, especially international sports events.
• Knowledge of event planning and project management processes.
• Experience developing and implementing operational plans.

Languages

• Fluent in English; French proficiency is a plus.

Technology

• Proficient in MS Office, planning software, and online collaboration tools.
• Experience with AutoCAD or similar software.
• Experience with project planning and management software.

FIFA26 is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is an equal opportunity employer.