VIP Lounge Manager, Match Day Only

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Temporary
Full-time
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Work Schedule

Fixed Shifts
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Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Disability insurance
Life insurance
401k Retirement Plan

Job Description

FIFA26 is the organizing entity behind the FIFA World Cup 26™, an unprecedented edition of the world’s most celebrated sporting event, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This tournament marks the first time that the competition will include 48 teams, significantly expanding the scale and reach of the event. FIFA26 is dedicated to creating a truly global, inclusive, and unforgettable experience, combining top-tier sportsmanship with exceptional fan engagement across North America and around the globe. The organization prides itself on operational excellence, innovative event delivery, and a commitment to showcasing the highest standards of hospitality and guest services during this landmark tournament.

The role of VIP Lounge Manager is a specialized, match-day-only position within the FIFA26 team, focused on overseeing the VIP guest experience at stadiums throughout the World Cup 26™. Reporting directly to the Guest Operations Stadium Manager, this position offers an exciting opportunity to play a critical role in executing world-class hospitality services during the event. The VIP Lounge Manager will collaborate closely with multiple departments, including Hospitality, Guest Relations, Venue Management, and other key teams responsible for operational success.

This role is primarily tied to the tournament match days, requiring availability on select event dates and participation in essential training sessions ahead of the tournament to ensure preparedness and alignment with FIFA26 standards. The VIP Lounge Manager will lead all operational aspects within the VIP lounge environment, ensuring that every detail—from branding and decor to staffing and entertainment—is delivered flawlessly. The goal is to exceed guest expectations and provide a memorable, seamless experience befitting the prestige of the FIFA World Cup.

Key responsibilities include managing the end-to-end guest experience in the VIP areas, overseeing supplier performance and compliance within budget, addressing any technical or infrastructure concerns related to guest spaces, and managing sponsor engagement in line with pre-agreed plans. The role also involves supporting training initiatives aimed at delivering outstanding customer service and participating in planning and debriefing meetings to continually elevate guest operations.

Candidates best suited for the VIP Lounge Manager role demonstrate leadership, initiative, innovation, and a commitment to inclusivity and accountability. The position demands excellent decision-making skills, the ability to collaborate across teams, and a strategic vision for enhancing the tournament’s hospitality standards.

The employment type for this role is a fixed-term contract based onsite in the New York/New Jersey area. FIFA26 offers a competitive pay structure, with a daily rate of $320, reflecting compliance with applicable pay equity legislation. Additional benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, alongside a 401k retirement savings plan. This role is an extraordinary chance to contribute directly to one of the world’s largest sporting events, bringing together global audiences and stakeholders for a shared celebration of football excellence and cultural exchange.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in sport management, business, hospitality or event management
  • Postgraduate education focusing on international organizations or sport management preferred but not required
  • 5+ years guest operations and event services with project management experience
  • Extensive knowledge of general stadium operations and specifically guest operations and hospitality as well as related event services
  • Extensive experience managing end-to-end v/vip hospitality programs at major sporting events
  • Fluent in English
  • Spanish and/or French proficiency is a plus
  • Proficient in ms office (excel, word, powerpoint, outlook, teams, visio, project) and planning software and online collaboration tools

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Sport Management, Business, Hospitality or Event Management
  • Postgraduate education focusing on International Organizations or Sport Management preferred but not required
  • Guest experience and hospitality management
  • 5+ years guest operations and event services with project management experience
  • Extensive knowledge of general stadium operations and specifically guest operations and hospitality as well as related event services
  • Extensive experience managing end-to-end V/VIP hospitality programs at major sporting events
  • Fluent in English
  • Spanish and/or French proficiency is a plus
  • Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Visio, Project) and planning software and online collaboration tools

Job Duties

  • Lead the on-site execution of the VIP lounge guest experience including branding, entertainment, staffing, and decor
  • Ensure the delivery of exceptional, world-class hospitality service to all guests
  • Monitor hospitality suppliers to ensure quality, budget compliance, and risk management
  • Address and escalate queries related to stadium infrastructure and technical aspects of guest areas
  • Manage VIK sponsor needs and ensure implementation aligns with agreed plans
  • Support world-class training programs focused on delivering exceptional customer service
  • Participate in planning meetings, provide updates, and prepare documents to support guest experience initiatives
  • Fill in the required reports and escalate necessary issues to the central team
  • Ensure successful knowledge sharing and post-event debriefing for Guest Operations

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


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