VIP Lounge Manager, Match Day Only

FIFA26 is a pioneering organization spearheading the planning and execution of the FIFA World Cup 26, one of the most prestigious sporting events globally. The FIFA World Cup 26 will be historic as the first tournament to feature 48 teams and will be uniquely co-hosted by three countries: Canada, Mexico, and the USA. This new expanded format is designed to redefine sporting excellence and foster greater participation, engagement, and connection among fans, players, and partners across the North American continent and the world at large. The event’s scale and significance create unprecedented opportunities for sports professionals, hospitality experts, and event organizers to showcase their skills, contribute to world-class experiences, and be part of a landmark legacy in sports history.

Within this dynamic and multifaceted environment, the VIP Lounge Manager position plays a critical role in ensuring that the hospitality component of the event meets and exceeds world-class standards. Reporting directly to the Guest Operations Stadium Manager, the VIP Lounge Manager will be a vital member of the FIFA26 Guest Operations team. This role requires close collaboration with the Hospitality, Guest Relations, Venue Management, and various other departments to seamlessly deliver exceptional VIP and VVIP operations at the assigned stadium. The position is a fixed-term contract located onsite in Kansas City, emphasizing direct, hands-on management during match days only.

The VIP Lounge Manager’s primary responsibility is to lead the on-site execution of the VIP lounge guest experience. This includes overseeing branding elements, entertainment programming, staffing coordination, and décor setup, all of which contribute to creating an unforgettable atmosphere for distinguished guests. Providing exceptional hospitality service with a focus on quality, attention to detail, and world-class standards is essential. The manager will continuously monitor hospitality suppliers to guarantee adherence to quality expectations, budget constraints, and risk management protocols.

Furthermore, the role requires quick problem-solving skills and technical knowledge to address and escalate issues related to stadium infrastructure and the technical aspects of guest areas. Managing VIK (Very Important Key) sponsor requirements and ensuring that all implementation aligns thoroughly with agreed-upon plans is also essential. The VIP Lounge Manager supports ongoing staff training programs aimed at enhancing customer service excellence and participates actively in planning meetings, status updates, and documentation related to guest experience initiatives.

At the conclusion of events, the role involves submitting detailed reports, escalating issues to central teams, and facilitating knowledge sharing and post-event debriefs to ensure continuous improvement for future tournaments. This role demands leadership, decisiveness, innovation, inclusivity, and a strategic vision that aligns with the global impact and mission of FIFA’s flagship event.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Sport Management, Business, Hospitality, or Event Management, with postgraduate education in international organizations or sport management considered an asset. The candidate will bring 5+ years of experience in guest operations, event services, and project management, ideally within stadium operations and major sporting event hospitality. Fluency in English is required, with additional language skills in Spanish or French highly desirable. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and planning software is also necessary.

FIFA26 offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurances, as well as a 401k retirement plan, providing a comprehensive and supportive work environment for all team members dedicated to delivering a once-in-a-lifetime event experience.