Senior Manager, Torch Relays Partner Activations

LA28 is the independent, non-profit, privately funded organizing committee responsible for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This dynamic organization is dedicated to planning and delivering a world-class Olympic and Paralympic experience that not only showcases the city of Los Angeles but also celebrates the diverse culture and spirit of the United States. The 2028 Games will mark the return of the Summer Olympics to the U.S. after 32 years and will be the third time Los Angeles hosts the Summer Games, presenting a unique opportunity to honor its Olympic legacy while innovating for the future. LA28's mission is to create an inclusive, impactful, and memorable event that inspires athletes, fans, partners, and communities across the nation. They are guided by core values of optimism, integrity, excellence, inclusion, co-creation, and boldness, which shape every aspect of their work and the Games themselves.

The Senior Manager, Torch Relays Partner Activations, plays a pivotal role within the Torch Relays functional area, which is tasked with the detailed planning and execution of the Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays as part of the 2028 Games. The Torch Relays are significant national engagement tools that build excitement, pride, and anticipation across the country, providing inclusive and accessible experiences that connect diverse communities with the Olympic and Paralympic Movements. This role is centered on managing how LA28’s Commercial Partners activate and participate within the Torch Relays experience, ensuring their rights, activation plans, and storytelling efforts are fully integrated into the Torch Relay environment.

Reporting directly to the Director of Relay Experience, the Senior Manager leads the execution of partner fulfillment strategies involving the Olympic and Paralympic flames, torchbearers, and community celebrations. This includes handling partner relationships, coordinating complex activation logistics, and bridging operational needs with commercial objectives. The role requires cross-functional collaboration with multiple LA28 departments such as Brand, Legal, Marketing, and Fan Experience to ensure partner activations comply with all guidelines and enhance the overall Torch Relay narrative. Given the high-profile and culturally significant nature of the Torch Relays, this position demands strategic thinking, exceptional communication skills, and a deep understanding of event production and sponsorship activation.

The Senior Manager will manage and streamline the approval processes for creative assets, merchandise, and promotional materials submitted by partners. They will also coordinate partner-selected torchbearer programs and maintain detailed timelines and playbooks to track partner commitments and deliverables. Regular engagement with partners through onboarding and ongoing meetings is essential for maintaining strong, collaborative relationships. Additionally, the Senior Manager contributes to the planning and execution of partner-facing summits and workshops designed to align stakeholders and foster impactful activations.

This position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in partnership management, sponsorship activation, or sports marketing, with a preference for those experienced in large-scale touring events or multi-city activations. The ideal candidate must excel in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining a proactive, solution-oriented approach. Strong skills in navigating stakeholder interests, creative problem solving, and influencing leadership through clear communication are critical. The role also demands a passion for live event production, cultural sensitivity, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.

The position is based in Los Angeles, CA, and requires on-site work in an open office environment. Candidates must be willing to work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays, particularly during peak event periods. Significant travel is expected from 2026 through 2028, especially during the Torch Relay season, with the Manager anticipated to be on the road approximately 100 days in 2028. The annual base salary range for the Senior Manager role is $105,000 to $140,000. LA28 does not offer relocation assistance. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a historic Olympic and Paralympic Games experience and be part of a talented, mission-driven team committed to excellence and inclusion in sports and community engagement.